Ginger, which contains potassium, magnesium, manganese, vitamin B6 and copper, is known for its healing properties. Ginger is used to calm digestive troubles, relieve motion sickness and dizziness, alleviate pain and relieve symptoms of common sicknesses such as colds and flu, says Nerys Purchon in her book "The Essential Natural Health Bible." Ginger is also simply enjoyed for its distinctive flavor. The World's Healthiest Foods website explains that ginger gives a mild flavor when cooked at the beginning of a recipe and a stronger flavor if added toward the end. Consult a physician before using ginger as an alternative method of healing.
Step 1
Purchase fresh ginger root at a supermarket, Asian market or farmer's market.
Step 2
Cut or peel the skin off the ginger root with a knife or peeler. The World's Healthiest Foods website explains that "mature" ginger, which is found in regular markets, requires cutting or peeling to remove the skin, while "young" ginger, often found in Asian markets, does not require removal of the skin.
Step 3
Slice, mince or julienne the ginger root with a knife.
Step 4
Add the ginger slices to recipes, or steep them in hot water for 10 minutes to make tea. Ginger is often used in Asian dishes such as stir-fries and curries, and to season meat and vegetables.
Tips and Warnings
- Purchon explains that when ingested through tea or food, ginger's healing benefits spread through the body.
- Medline Plus warns that ginger may interfere with medications that slow blood clotting, as ginger may have the same effect. It can also interfere with medications for heart disease, diabetes and high blood pressure. Medline Plus reports that ginger can cause heartburn, stomach upset and diarrhea, as well as skin reactions if applied to the skin. People with bleeding disorders, heart conditions or women who are pregnant should not eat ginger.
Things You'll Need
- Ginger root
- Knife
References
- The World's Healthiest Foods: Ginger
- "The Essential Natural Health Bible"; Nerys Purchon; 2006
- Medline Plus: Ginger
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