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GINGER




Ginger


Botanical Name

Zingiber officinale

Common Name

Ginger

Family

Zingiberaceae

Parts Used

Rhizome

Native To

South Asia

Harvesting Guidelines

Harvest the rhizome about 10 months into growth, or after leaves have died back. Pieces of the rhizome may be saved and replanted.



 


Ginger is a powerful herb that is known for its warming properties. It is believed to stimulate circulation and energy, which can help support digestion, heart health, immunity, and reproductive system balance. Its fiery nature is particularly beneficial for those who suffer from cold, damp, or stagnant conditions. According to Matthew Wood, ginger is an ideal remedy for cases where the body or a specific area is feeling cold, cramped, or inactive.


Ginger is a versatile root that has been used for centuries for its medicinal properties. One of its most notable benefits is its ability to regulate body temperature. Whether you're feeling cold or feverish, a cup of ginger tea can help warm you up or cool you down. This is because ginger relaxes the muscles surrounding the arteries and stimulates circulation, promoting warmth in the body's extremities or inducing sweating to cool the body. Ginger also has antimicrobial properties and can help thin mucous and support expectoration, making it a great ally for those with colds and flu. Its volatile oils stimulate the immune system to fight bacterial and viral infections, and it can even abort the onset of upper respiratory infections. In fact, one study found that ginger extract exhibited antibacterial activity against pathogens. Fresh ginger juice can also be applied topically to treat skin infections.(1)


Ginger has been found to have antiviral properties, which can be attributed to its ability to stimulate macrophage activity, prevent viruses from attaching to cell walls, and act as a virucide. According to herbalist Stephen Buhner, the fresh juice of ginger is the most effective way to use it as an antiviral. Additionally, ginger can act as a catalyst and synergist in antimicrobial herbal formulas, helping to increase their effectiveness by dilating blood vessels and improving circulation.(2)


Ginger has long been known for its ability to alleviate nausea and motion sickness. This is due to the relaxing properties of its aromatic oils. In clinical trials, ginger has been found to significantly reduce the severity of nausea in patients undergoing chemotherapy, as well as in pregnant women experiencing morning sickness. Multiple studies have shown that ginger is effective in alleviating nausea and vomiting associated with various conditions, including post-operative nausea, seasickness, and chemotherapy-induced nausea. While further studies are needed, the evidence suggests that ginger is a promising natural remedy for these symptoms.(3)



 

Adult Dose (4)

Tea: 3-5 grams of fresh root/day in tea or .5 to 2 teaspoons of dried root/day.

Tincture: 1-2 mL in water 3x/day of a 1:2

fresh tincture; 1-1.5 mL in water 3x/day for a 1:5 dry tincture.


Safety

While ginger is generally considered safe and has many health benefits, it's important to be aware of potential interactions with certain medications. For example, ginger may increase the risk of bleeding and should be used with caution if you are taking blood thinners like warfarin. Additionally, if you are taking medications for diabetes or high blood pressure, it's important to talk to your doctor before using ginger as it may interact with these medications. Pregnant women should also be cautious and limit their intake of dried ginger to no more than 2 grams per day, according to Traditional Chinese Medicine practitioners.(5)

Actions


Energy

Warming


References:


(1)Akoachere JF, Ndip RN, Chenwi EB, Ndip LM, Njock TE, Anong DN. (2002). Antibacterial effect of Zingiber officinale and Garcinia kola on respiratory tract pathogens.East Afr Med J. Nov;79(11):588-92.

(2)Buhner, Stephen. (2013). Herbal Antivirals. North Adams, MA: Storey Publishing.

(3)Ozgoli G, Goli M, Simbar M. (2009). Effects of ginger capsules on pregnancy, nausea, and vomiting. Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine 15(3):243-246.

(4)Winston, D., and Kuhn, M. (2007). Herbal therapy and supplements. Philadelphia, PA: Lippincott Wiliams & Wilkins. (5)Hoffmann, David. (2003). Medical Herbalism. Rochester, VT: Healing Arts Press.


 

Scientific Research:















Information offered on Achula and on this page is for educational purposes only. Achula makes neither medical claim, nor intends to diagnose or treat medical conditions. Women who are pregnant or nursing, and persons with known medical conditions, should consult their licensed healthcare provider before taking any herbal product. Links to external sites are for informational purposes only. Achula neither endorses them nor is in any way responsible for their content. Readers must do their own research concerning the safety and usage of any herbs or supplements.




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