Ginger Root (Zingiber offcinale)

Ginger – One of Natures Powerhouse Spices

Ginger, a tried and true powerhouse because of it’s abilities as a healing spice and for strengthening the body. Also a member of the Turmeric and Cardamon family, ginger has also been around and used for thousands of years globally for its beautiful aroma, flavour and a powerful tonic abilities.

Not surprisingly, the use of Ginger is on the increase as more and more health conscious beings are becoming aware of its amazing health benefits and also for a complimentary replacement of standard medicine drugs.

Ginger known for its anti-inflammation action and has a very high level of antioxidant properties, we can see why it is part of the turmeric family.

Some of the great benefits of ginger:

1. A great digestive assistant! The phenolic compounds (such as gingerols and shogaols) in this great spice stimulate saliva. (In organic chemistry, Phenols can also be called phenolics, you can read more here on how phenolics compounds are essential for our health.)
2. Osteoarthritis (know as a degenerative joint disease) and causes pain due to swelling and inflammation. Gingerols (the phenolic compounds in ginger) are a great anti-inflammatory property found in the ginger.
3. Very high in antioxidants.
4. Nausea, such as motion sickness, sea sickness, nausea associated with pregnancy and commonly used to alleviate the aftereffects of chemotherapy.
5. Anti carcinogenic! Yes, ginger has been shown to help with various types of cancers.
6. Helps to assist absorption of vital nutrients and minerals.
7. Very helpful with common cold and flu-like symptoms, fever and excessive sweating.
8. Assists with keeping Blood Circulation normal, ginger contains chromium, magnesium and zinc which can help to improve blood flow.
9. Heartburn / Acid Reflux – ginger helps to inhibit acid reflux.

While considered a safe spice, like any herbal/conventional medicine it should also be treated with respect.

** A caution: Ginger is advised NOT to be taken if you are on blood thinning medication. So please contact you medical professional before taking ginger in any form.