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Ginger
(Ginger Root)
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Parts
Used The root of the
plant is used, either fresh or dried. The dried root can be powdered and
put into capsules. The oil from the ginger root can also be used.
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| Common
Uses |
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Aids normal
digestion |
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Helps alleviate
motion sickness |
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Helps reduce nausea
and vomiting in pregnancy |
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Helps reduce post
anesthesia nausea after surgery |
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How Ginger
Works
Ginger works by stimulating the digestion
and soothing upset stomachs. It acts as an antispasmodic and helps
prevent nausea and vomiting. It also improves the tone of intestinal
muscles. |
| Ginger stimulates circulation
by helping to reduce platelet "stickiness" and this may
improve the health of the cardiovascular system. |
| It also has a mild
anti-inflammatory action and has been used in the treatment of arthritis
and other inflammatory joint diseases. When the oil is applied topically
(to the skin) it increases blood flow to the area and acts as a mild
pain reliever. |
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Suggested use
of dried root powder
2 - 4
grams daily of the dried root powder, this should be divided into 2 or 3
doses. A single dose of 1 gram is suggested for the treatment of nausea.
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| To help prevent
travel sickness start taking ginger a couple of days before your trip
begins |
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Suggested
use of ginger oil
Add 5 – 10 drops to 25 ml of almond oil
(eucalyptus and juniper work well too). Use as massage oil for
arthritis, rheumatism, lumbago and bone or joint injuries. |
| Add 1 or 2 drops of pure
ginger oil to half a teaspoon of honey or a sugar lump. This helps
reduce flatulence, nausea, stomach upsets and menstrual cramps. |
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| Side
effects
There have been no
side effects noted with the use of ginger at these doses. |
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Safety
concerns
The German Commission E Monographs suggest
that people with gallstones should consult their physician before using
Ginger. |
| Although short term use of
ginger during pregnancy to help reduce nausea and vomiting poses no
safety problems, long term use during pregnancy is not recommended. |
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If you are thinking of using
ginger before surgery in order to help counteract post anesthesia
nausea, check with your physician first.
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History of
Ginger
Ginger has been cultivated in China and
India for thousands of years. It was sold to the ancient Greeks and
Romans by Arabian traders, and in the second century A.D. was actually
subject to Roman taxes. The Spaniards brought it to America and it is
now grown in the West Indies. |
| Chinese herbalists have been
recommending ginger for more than 2,500 years. It also plays an
important role in traditional healing in India, Nigeria and the West
Indies |
