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Information about the herb Ginger
Zingiber officinale, also known as African Ginger is part of the Zingiberaceae plant family. Ginger is a perennial plant indigenous to tropical Asia and cultivated in other
tropical areas, especially Jamaica.
Botanical Name: Zingiber officinale
Plant Family: Zingiberaceae
Common Names: African Ginger, Black Ginger, Race Ginger
History: After the discovery of America by Spain, Ginger was introduced there
Tradition: In Wiccan rites Ginger was used in spells:
- for success and to ensure the success of spells
- to inspire passion in relationships
Contains:
- acetate of potassa
- acetic acid
- acrid soft resin
- asmazone
- gum
- insoluble resin
- lignin
- phenols
- starch
- sulfur
- vegetable matter
- volatile oil
Action:
- adjuvant [a herb added to a mixture to aid the effect of the principal ingredient]
- appetizer [an agent that excites the appetite]
- aromatic [a substance having an agreeable odor and stimulating qualities]
- carminative [an agent for expelling gas from the intestines]
- diaphoretic [an agent that promotes perspiration]
- expectorant [an agent that promotes the discharge of mucous and secretions from the respiratory passages]
- rubefacient [a gentle local irritant that produces blisters, inflammation and reddening of the skin]
- sialagogue [an agent that stimulates the secretion of saliva]
- stimulant [an agent that excites or quickens the activity of physiological processes]
- warming, anti-chilling effect on the whole circulation
Medicinal Parts Used: Rootstock, rhizome
Ginger is used for:
Brain and Nervous System Conditions
- prevents dizziness
Cardiovascular Conditions
- problems related to poor circulation due to cold weather
- promotes blood flow to the extremities
- stimulates circulation
- warming, anti-chilling effect on the whole circulation
Female Conditions
- during pregnancy for treating morning sickness
- suppressed menstruation
Gastrointestinal Conditions
- alcoholic gastritis
- diarrhea from a relaxed bowel where there is no inflammation
- during pregnancy for treating morning sickness and digestive problems
- dyspepsia
- flatulent colic
- helps with griping when added to other laxative herbs
- stimulates digestion
Respiratory Tract Conditions
- at the onset of a cold to relieve usual symptoms
- removes congestion
- soothes sore throats
- strengthens and heals the respiratory system
Other
- prevents vomiting
- promotes cleansing of the system through perspiration
- relieves headaches and body aches
- relieves travel or motion sickness
- spasms
Externally Ginger can be used for:
- chill blains
- hand and footbath (dilute if there is broken skin)
- sore and stiff neck
Other Uses:
- used in Ginger Beer
When combined with other herbs, Ginger enhances their effectiveness
Dosage:
Recommended dosage is as follows:
- 5-15mL per week
of 1:2 fluid extract
Caution:
- Excess dosage can cause irritation
Global Herbal Supplies has Ginger available in the following forms:
- Ginger Extract
- Dried Ginger
- Ginger Essential Oil
- Ginger
Capsules - Lifestream, Nature's Sunshine
Information given by our website is provided for informational purposes and is not meant to substitute for the advice provided by a physician or other medical professionals. You should not use the information given for diagnosing a health problem or disease. If you have or suspect that you have a medical problem, promptly contact your health care provider. The above information is just a guide to general circumstances and in no way should it contradict the advice that you have been given by your naturopath, medical doctor or specialist.
