Ginger belongs to the family zingiberaceae of the class: liliopsida and division: Magnoliophta. It is also known as Jamaican ginger, African ginger, Cochin (Asia) ginger. Ginger is a perennial rhizome plant. The tuberous rhizome creeps and increases in size underground. The flowering stalk rises directly from roots and reaches to a height of approximately 2 ft. with narrow lanceolate leaves.
In India, an important saying is ”Every good quality is contained in ginger”. Well, it seems an overstatement. No doubt, it has many qualities and is considered as an essential herb in cooking. Ginger has been used since ancient times in China and India. In India and Pakistan, ginger is an integral part of cooking, so is true of other Asian countries. In India, it is also considered as physical and spiritual cleanser. The first great Chinese herbal guide, the Pen Tsao Ching, compiled by legendary emperor/sage Shen Nung around 3000 B.C. mentions ginger as cure for many ailments. Shen Nung tried most of the herbs on himself, at times in the excessive amounts. His death also occurred due to over dosage. Shen Nung recommended ginger for colds, fever, chills, tetanus and leprosy. The Pen Tsao Ching also endorsed one of the Indian saying “ Ginger eliminates body odor and puts a person in touch with the spiritual(realm). Chinese sailors have chewed ginger to protect them from sea sickness, arthritis and kidney problems. Ginger roots role as protector of gastrointestinal tract is well known when used in appropriate dosage. It plays great role in preventing any form of nausea, gas, heartburn, flatulence, indigestion, diarrhea, dizziness, vertigo and any other acute gastrointestinal condition can be successfully treated with ginger root.
Recent researches endorse anti-inflammatory properties of ginger. It is recommended for the treatment of arthritis and provides excellent results. For motion sickness it seems to be a better treatment than our standard drugs. If you suffer from motion sickness, take ginger capsules about 30 minutes before engaging in an activity. Grated ginger with olive oil is an old-fashioned effective remedy for dandruff. Apply to scalp before you shampoo.
To summarize, I should say that ginger provides cure for arthritis, calms an upset stomach, relieves motion sickness and helps in cold and flu sickness. As a gargle, it can help in case of sore throats. Externally it helps in muscle sprain treatments.
Ginger can be taken best in form of capsules available at health food stores. Ginger teas are commonly available. You can make your own infusion by pouring a cup of boiling water onto 1 teaspoonful of the fresh root and let it infuse for 5 minutes. Drink as needed. I myself use a ginger –cinnamon concoction ( 1 inch piece of ginger and almost the same size of cinnamon stick is boiled in 2 cups of water and then simmered for 20 minutes). I drink this concoction with some honey at least twice a day. I believe it does lots of good to my every day health especially to ward off colds, flu and cough as well as great help for the gastrointestinal system. Use these herbs in consultation with your physician.
I will be posting soon an article on garlic – another popular herb.
Till then take care of your good health.
Ali M. Jafri, Ph.D.
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