Ginger is an aphrodisiac, a spice, medicine and a perfume ingredient, all packed in a small bulb. In cold but rainy winters, when flu viruses are becoming livelier, it helps if we keep some ginger in the fridge. Orange juice with some ginger grated into it makes a refreshing and immune strengthening drink.
As a medicinal plant, ginger has a wide area of usefulness.
According to traditional East Indian medicine, ginger strengthens not only the body but the soul as well – it makes one more intelligent and determined. In medieval Italy, ginger was considered indispensable for old age happiness, as it enhances sexual power. In Africa, ginger was also regarded as an aphrodisiac. In England, ginger was used to make stomach soothing beverages and ale. The latter was the ancestor of the light ginger ale, recommended against diarrhea and nausea. In Japan, ginger slices are offered between meals to clean the mouth palate and enhance digestion, as ginger helps the secretion of digestive fluids; thus, it will stimulate digestion and increase the appetite.
Nowadays, European doctors recommend ginger for a large number of diseases. Among else, ginger is useful to soothe the symptoms of breathing difficulties, menstruation cramps, sore throat and flu. Ginger is also used to treat arthritis, as it contains anti-inflammatory substances, and it soothes the pain.
This root also helps fighting hangover, and it cures nausea. It enhances memory and the sharpness of the senses. It aids a tired organism and helps in cases of mental exhaustion.
Ginger is recommended to help in the prevention of winter diseases, as it is an immune strengthener and it helps the body maintain an optimal temperature. It warms up cold arms and feet, and it reduces fever at the same time. Clinical experiments proved that ginger contains an effective anti-coagulation agent; thus, it reduces cholesterol and high blood pressure. Ginger also helps in the treatment of cellulite and varicose veins, as in enhances the blood flow.
Because of its tangy, spicy smell and the pleasant green color of its oil, ginger is a much liked ingredient in the perfume industry. Usually it is used in making men’s perfumes.
Fresh ginger tea recipe
Peel a 2-3 cm piece of ginger root. Grate it or cut it into small cubes and pour a liter of hot water over it. Let it soak for 10-12 minutes. Flavor the tea with honey and lemon. Don’t use too much ginger, as the tea will taste too bold as a result.
Pregnant women should avoid consuming ginger, as it may cause contractions of the uterus.