Ginger

Alternative names: Zingiber Officinale, African Ginger, Gan Jiang, Shunthi

According to some experts, indigenous to Asia and cultivated in Africa, Jamaica and West Indies, Ginger is a true wonder plant. With  a spicy and hot, biting taste, the underground stem (rhizome) of the herb has numerous health benefits, improving the absorption of essential nutrients in the body , easing digestion, fighting  colds and flu and preventing colon cancer. Very effective in alcoholic gastritis, Ginger has also a carminative action and is helpful in dyspepsia and flatulent colics. Substances extracted from Ginger are used as ingredients in antacid and laxative medications.

Seasickness, Motion sickness and also morning sickness can be relieved by Ginger, as the root contains chemicals able to reduce nausea and vomiting. Ginger infusion (or just chewing ginger) is always  a good choice whether your nausea is caused by pregnancy, a cancer treatment or if it appears after a surgery. Undergoing studies reveal that the active principles of Ginger work primarily in the stomach and intestines, but it may also impact the nervous system and the brain, controlling nausea sensation.

Ginger contains active chemicals called gingerols, with strong anti-inflammatory properties. These compounds are believed to be the reason why people with arthritic and rheumatic- related problems experience decreased pain levels and increased mobility when they consume ginger regularly.

Protective effects of Ginger are discovered in cardiovascular disease, diabetes, dementia, asthma, ulcerative colitis, oxidative damage, platelet aggregation,  inflammation,  cholesterol and cancer. See Study

Flavoring agent in foods and beverage, Ginger can be used fresh or dried, as a juice or an oil and sometimes is used for scent in cosmetics and soaps.