1. The Stem With a Thousand Uses
A tropical plant with gorgeous, greenish-purple flowers, ginger has proven itself to be not only a great seasoning to cook with but also a medicinal aid for many ailments, including rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis and the nausea caused by chemotherapy and pregnancy, to name a few. The underground stem, known as a rhizome, emits a unique but subtle fragrance. The Sanskrit word for this ginger stem is "stringa-vera"--meaning the "shape of a horn" (somewhat like antlers), and this stem can be purchased in health food stores in its fresh, natural form. You can also purchase the dried root or buy the ginger ground, in capsules or tablets, in tinctures or extracts, and in teas. Buy it sliced, crushed or minced.
2. Ginger Ale Shows the Versatility of This Herb
The Chinese used ginger in their medicines for centuries, and even Confucius wrote about it. In Arabia, the Koran mentions the use of it in AD 650, and in Europe in the ninth century, it was as common on the table as salt and pepper. Our "ginger ale" grew out of the practice of sprinkling powdered ginger on beer during the nineteenth century. Proper cooking in India would seem almost impossible without this herb.
3. Flavors That Permeate
Throughout Asia the sweet, warm, fiery and pungent ginger forms the basis for many chutneys, curry pastes and powders, and pickles. Chop the fine green sprouts growing out of the stem and add them to a green salad. Or chop up the root and add it to your biscuits, cakes or cookies, creating ginger snaps or gingerbread. Chopped fresh ginger added to ice cream makes a delightful treat.
4. A Natural Aid for Many Common Ailments
During the plague in Europe, many found relief by taking large doses of ginger. The theory promoting this was based on the profuse sweating created by the heat of the ginger. Currently people appreciate ginger for its digestive qualities. By increasing the digestive fluids it relieves gas pains, diarrhea, indigestion and also stomach cramping. Many find relief from the nausea of morning sickness and motion sickness, without drowsiness, by eating ginger. Because it loosens and expels phlegm from the lungs, many use it in treating bronchitis and respiratory problems. It cleanses the kidneys and bowels, stimulates the blood circulation and also reduces arthritic inflammation.
5. The Unexpected Aphrodisiac
Over the centuries, lovers have taken ginger both internally and externally to help gain the affections of a loved one. The Kama Sutra promotes this practice. On the other end of the spectrum, there are those who chew on the ginger in order to expel evil spirits. Truly, there aren't many herbs in the world that can fulfill such a wide variety of needs.
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