Ginger is a powerhouse of an herb that is very versatile in its uses, it is known primarily as an aid for digestion and a treatment for pain and inflammation. It can be used fresh, dried and powdered, or as a juice or oil. However, to maintain its healing properties it is best to use it fresh or steeped in water.
Ginger is commonly used to treat various types of conditions such as:
- Stomach ailments
- Motion sickness
- Morning sickness
- Colic
- Upset stomach
- Gas
- Diarrhea
- Nausea caused by chemotherapy
- Nausea and vomiting after a surgery
- Pain relief from arthritis or muscle soreness
- Menstrual pain
- Upper respiratory tract infections
- Cough
- Bronchitisv
- Relieves skin burns and skin pain by rubbing the juice of raw ginger onto the skin
How does ginger work?
Ginger contains chemicals that may reduce nausea and inflammation. As a digestive aid, ginger can reduce appetite through its regulatory effects on blood sugar and serum cholesterol. Researchers believe the chemicals work primarily in the stomach and intestines, but they may also work in the brain and nervous system to control nausea. A 2006 article in the “British Journal of Nutrition” cites raw ginger as having a regulatory effect on blood sugar, cholesterol and lipids. A few slices of fresh ginger simmered in a cup of water and consumed before a meal stimulates digestion.
How much ginger should you use?
There are many ways to use ginger and how it is taken is up to you. Here are some ideas:
- Add 2 tablespoons of shredded ginger in a cup 2-3 times a day is ideal when you are feeling under the weather.
- Mix ginger and honey to help soothe a cold and drink it many times a day.
- Use a knuckle of raw ginger in your raw juice
- Add 1 tablespoon of sliced or shredded ginger to any kind of tea
- Boil 2 tablespoons of sliced ginger in water and drink (this one is especially good for menstrual cramps)
Ginger-Pear Juice Shooter Recipe
- 1 large pear
- 1 tbsp fresh ginger
- 1 medium tangerine
- 1 tsp fresh lemon juice
1. Wash your pear and peel the ginger. Set aside.
2. With a manual citrus juicer, juice your tangerine and lemon. Set aside.
3. Using an electric juicer, juice your pear and ginger. Pouring the tangerine and lemon juice into the juicer to blend all the flavors.
4. Stir and pour into shooter sized glasses.
Garnish with Ginger Chew Candies and serve!
