Organic Ginger Root (Zingiber officinale)

Herbs are Sold By the Ounce, Price is Per Ounce

Ginger (Zingiber officinale)

Family: Zingiberaceae

Common Names: Common Ginger, Garden Ginger, Zingiber

Botanical Description: Ginger is a perennial herb with reed-like stems, narrow lance-shaped leaves, and yellow-green flowers. The part used medicinally and culinarily is the rhizome, which is knobby, thick, and light brown on the outside, with a yellowish to white interior.

Habitat and Cultivation: Ginger is believed to have originated in Southeast Asia and is now cultivated in tropical and subtropical regions worldwide, including India, China, and the Caribbean. It prefers warm, humid climates, well-drained soil, and partial to full sunlight. Ginger can also be grown indoors in pots.

Parts Used: Rhizome (root)

Historical and Folklore Uses:

Ginger has been used for thousands of years both as a spice and a medicinal herb. It was highly valued in ancient China and India for its warming and digestive properties. In traditional Ayurvedic medicine, ginger is known as the "universal medicine." It was also a popular remedy in ancient Greece and Rome and was traded extensively along the spice routes.

Energetics and Taste:

• Energetics: Warming
• Taste: Spicy, pungent, slightly sweet

Medicinal Actions:

• Carminative: Relieves gas and bloating, aiding in digestion.
• Anti-inflammatory: Reduces inflammation, particularly in joints and the digestive system.
• Anti-nausea: Effective in treating nausea, including motion sickness and morning sickness.
• Antimicrobial: Fights bacterial, viral, and fungal infections.
• Diaphoretic: Promotes sweating, helping to break fevers.
• Circulatory Stimulant: Enhances circulation, particularly to the extremities.

System Affinities:

• Digestive System: Ginger is well-known for its ability to soothe digestive discomfort, including indigestion, gas, bloating, and nausea.
• Musculoskeletal System: Its anti-inflammatory properties make it effective for treating conditions like arthritis and muscle pain.
• Respiratory System: Ginger is often used in teas and remedies for colds, coughs, and sore throats, helping to reduce mucus and inflammation.
• Circulatory System: Ginger's warming nature promotes circulation, which can help alleviate cold hands and feet and improve overall circulation.

Active Compounds:

• Gingerol: The main bioactive compound in fresh ginger, responsible for its spicy flavor and many of its medicinal properties, including anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects.
• Shogaol: Formed when ginger is dried or cooked, it has potent anti-inflammatory and anti-nausea effects.
• Zingiberene: A compound contributing to ginger's aromatic and medicinal properties, including digestive support.

Uses:

1. Digestive Health: Ginger is widely used to relieve various forms of digestive distress, including indigestion, gas, bloating, and nausea. It is particularly effective for motion sickness and morning sickness.
2. Anti-inflammatory: Ginger is used to reduce inflammation and pain in conditions like arthritis, muscle pain, and menstrual cramps.
3. Cold and Flu: As a warming herb, ginger is commonly used in teas and remedies for colds, coughs, and sore throats. It helps to reduce mucus and fight infections.
4. Circulatory Health: Ginger promotes circulation and is used to treat cold extremities and improve overall blood flow.
5. Culinary Use: Ginger is a popular spice used in cooking and baking around the world, adding flavor and warmth to a variety of dishes.

Cautions:

• Pregnancy: While ginger is often used to alleviate morning sickness, it should be used in moderation during pregnancy. High doses may increase the risk of bleeding.
• Blood Thinners: If you are taking blood-thinning medications, consult a healthcare provider before using ginger, as it may enhance the effects of these medications.
• Stomach Sensitivity: Some people may experience mild heartburn or stomach upset when consuming large amounts of ginger.

Research and Studies:

1. A study published in Journal of Pain demonstrated ginger’s effectiveness in reducing pain and inflammation in patients with osteoarthritis .
2. Research in American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology confirmed ginger’s efficacy in reducing nausea and vomiting during pregnancy .
3. Another study in Journal of Ethnopharmacology highlighted ginger’s antimicrobial properties, supporting its use in treating infections .