Ginger

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What does Ginger root do?

Ginger root is a medicinal herb used primarily for the treatment of Dyspepsia (discomfort after eating), this includes the symptoms of bloating, heartburn, flatulence, and nausea. It is also considered helpful as a preventative for motion sickness and as a digestive a.d. Due to it's antispasmodic characteristic some people have used it to help ease menstrual cramps. In some traditional systems it is credited with the ability to treat arthritis, fevers, headaches, and toothaches. It may have the ability to lower blood cholesterol and aid in preventing internal blood clots. It is often taken to help combat colds, coughs, and the flu. It can be taken as a capsule, pill, tea, tincture or the fresh root can be eaten.

Should my health care professional be advised before I take Ginger root?

They should be consulted first if you have any of these conditions, as Ginger usage may be contraindicated: If you have gall stones (possible cholagogue effect)

Are there other times my health care professional needs to be advised before I take Ginger root?

They should be consulted first if you are: Pregnant or trying to get pregnant (large doses may have abortifacient effects) Breast-feeding If you plan to administer this herb to a child in medicinal quantities.

How should I take this herb?

One recommended method for taking Ginger is as a tea from the raw herb. The raw fresh herb may also be chewed on or used in a food dish . . The powdered herb may be taken mixed in a liquid or in capsules. Ginger root capsules or tablets should be taken by mouth and swallowed with a large drink of water. For the best bioavailability and if you have a sensitive stomach, it is often recommended that you take an herb as a tincture, infusion, or tea. You can take Ginger with or without food.

What should the dosage be?

Dosages are usually based on the severity of the symptoms and the type of problem. 2-4 grams of the root or an equivalent preparation. Tea: 0.5 to 1 gram herb to one cup boiling water, steep 15 to 20 minutes 3x day

What side effects may I notice from taking Ginger?

Side effects from correctly administered Ginger usage are thought to be rare. If you experience any side effects, stop usage immediately and report them to your health care professional. None Known Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (stop usage and report it to your health care professional if they are continuing or bothersome): Heartburn Diarrheas (reduce dosage or stop usage)

What do I need to watch out for with Ginger?

The raw herb may be the best form to utilize and is easily available at most markets. If purchasing a prepared product, read labels carefully before purchasing . There have been reported cases of herbal products being sold that did not contain active ingredients (the herbs active constituents) needed to be of any therapeutic value. Buying a standardized product when purchasing tinctures, capsule, or tablets may reduce the possibility of this occurrence. Look also for products that are clearly labeled with the ingredients contained and amounts.

Where can I keep my herbal product?

Keep out of the reach of children in a container that small children cannot open. Store at room temperature between 15 and 30°C (59 and 86°F). The raw dried herb, tinctures or infusions should be stored in airtight, dry, and light resistant containers. If there is an expiration date listed on the herbal product, throw away the unused portion after the expiration date. Raw herbs, tinctures, ointments, etc all have varying life spans. Generally, an herbal product will have the longest life span when it has been extracted in alcohol.

Can you tell me a little more about Ginger?

Ginger is originally indigenous to East Asia. It has a long history of usage a an aromatic herb for cooking and preserving food. East Indian and Chinese cultures have utilized it as a digestive aid for centuries. Ancient Greeks and Romans also utilized it for this purpose. It impacted Europe and American where it established itself as a helpful medicinal herb and became popular as a soothing drink (ginger ale, gingerbeer, and ginger tea) for stomach aliments. . Today it is cultivated worldwide. . It is a creeping tropical perennial that grows from a thick tuberous rhizome. It prefers partial shade in hot moist climates to grow.. A single erect round stem grows from the rhizome to 3 feet high. It has thin, lanceolate to linear-lanceolate leaves approximately 6 inches in length which die off each year. Ginger produces a single, large whitish/yellow and purple flower which grows directly from a long curved scape originating form the root. It has a strong aromatic odor and pungent taste.

What are the actions that have been associated with the herb?

Ginger is considered to be positively inotropic. It promotes secretions of saliva and gastric juices. Its properties have been listed as antiemetic, chologogic, anti-spasmodic, anti-inflammatory and as a stimulant, carminative, expectorant and astringent It is thought to increase tonus and peristalsis in the intestines. Externally, it may act as a rubefacient.

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