Common Names Ginger Root, Luyang Dilaw
Botanical Name Zingiber officinale
Family ZINGIBERACEAE Ginger Family
Medicinal Uses & Health Benefits of Ginger Root
Ginger may be one of the most important plants used in herbal medicine, it is certainly one of the most used. The cultivation of this plant extends so far back in human history that specific origins are hard to trace, however, ginger is mentioned in the eldest medical texts from both India and China. Ginger is one of the most prescribed herbs in TCM, Sheng-jiang (fresh ginger) is used in the treatment of colds for it's ability to eliminate toxins and raise body heat.
Botanical Name Zingiber officinale
Family ZINGIBERACEAE Ginger Family
- Flowers: In Hawaii, ginger flowers and pinkish, white. Chinese species bear yellowish, green flowers
- Plant Class: Tuber-perennial reed-like
- Leaves: Swordlike leafy stems that branch off a corn-like stalk
- Rhizome: Fleshy, aromatic and covered with a light green skin. Older roots, like most seen in grocery stores have a light tan skin.
- Preferred Habitat: Tropical
- Flowering Season: Spring
- Distribution: Native to East Asia and tropical Australia
Medicinal Uses & Health Benefits of Ginger Root
Ginger may be one of the most important plants used in herbal medicine, it is certainly one of the most used. The cultivation of this plant extends so far back in human history that specific origins are hard to trace, however, ginger is mentioned in the eldest medical texts from both India and China. Ginger is one of the most prescribed herbs in TCM, Sheng-jiang (fresh ginger) is used in the treatment of colds for it's ability to eliminate toxins and raise body heat.
Make the firm, smooth skinned roots of fresh ginger root a household staple, and keep plenty of ginger on hand for both herbal medicine and healthy cooking.
Ginger Side Effects: Ginger is a blood thinner, if you are taking prescription blood thinners, have a bleeding disorder, or have gallbladder disease don't take medicinal doses of ginger. Pregnant women should be cautious in their use of ginger, it can stimulate the uterus.
Ginger Side Effects: Ginger is a blood thinner, if you are taking prescription blood thinners, have a bleeding disorder, or have gallbladder disease don't take medicinal doses of ginger. Pregnant women should be cautious in their use of ginger, it can stimulate the uterus.
*Fresh ginger's antispasmodic property makes it a good herbal pain remedy for stomach pain, and lower back pain. Used topically, ginger can be made into a poultice for the treatment of muscle pains and strains.
Ginger is also a blood thinner, which which may help reduce angina episodes by lowering cholesterol. The increase in blood flow helps relieve abdominal cramps and open the pelvis to bring on menstruation.
Ginger can be used safely to treat a wide range of health problems, from simple nausea to arthritis. The aspect I most appreciate about ginger is what a good supporting player it is in herbal formulas. Ginger combines well with many herbs, improving taste and potency. Ginger speeds up the delivery of healthy plant chemicals into the bloodstream.
Ginger is also a blood thinner, which which may help reduce angina episodes by lowering cholesterol. The increase in blood flow helps relieve abdominal cramps and open the pelvis to bring on menstruation.
Ginger can be used safely to treat a wide range of health problems, from simple nausea to arthritis. The aspect I most appreciate about ginger is what a good supporting player it is in herbal formulas. Ginger combines well with many herbs, improving taste and potency. Ginger speeds up the delivery of healthy plant chemicals into the bloodstream.
