Herb library

Ginger

Zingiber officinale

Ginger, the warm, aromatic root used in kitchens and home medicine cabinets, is a long-standing household remedy for mild stomach upset, chilliness, and to add comforting heat to drinks and foods.

Traditionally used for.

• •Traditionally used for soothing mild digestive discomfort, such as indigestion, nausea, or a chilly stomach.
• •Traditionally used as a warming kitchen remedy for feelings of chill, heaviness, or low appetite.
• •A long-standing household use is to add to hot drinks or broths to bring gentle warmth and ease during cold weather or when feeling rundown.

Simple preparations.

• •Fresh ginger tea: Slice 1 teaspoon to 1 tablespoon fresh ginger root per cup of boiling water, simmer 5 to 10 minutes, strain and sip warm. Take as needed, up to 3 cups a day.
• •Ginger syrup for coughs and sore throat: Simmer 2 cups water with 1 cup grated fresh ginger and 1 cup honey (note: do not give honey to children under 1 year) for 20 minutes, strain and store in the refrigerator. Take 1 teaspoon to 1 tablespoon as desired for a soothing throat.
• •Ginger steam inhalation or compress: For chest or sinus comfort, steep a handful of sliced ginger in 2 quarts very hot water for 5 minutes, inhale the steam carefully at a safe distance, or soak a cloth, wring, and apply as a warm compress to the chest for 10 to 15 minutes.

Cautions.

• !Ginger can be warming and may cause heartburn or mild stomach upset in some people, lower the dose if that occurs.
• !Large amounts of ginger may thin the blood slightly, so use caution with bleeding disorders or before surgery.
• !If you are pregnant, nursing, taking medications, or have a chronic health condition, check with your doctor before using ginger regularly.

Often kept beside.