Let's talk about Ginger...

Familiar name : Ginger
Latin name : Zingiber officinale
Sanskrit name :Andraka (fresh); Sunthi (dry)

Known in Ayurveda as the universal remedy, ginger has been honored around the world and across time for its unique culinary and medicinal properties. From Confucius to Marco Polo to the Indian King Akbar, those who experienced the unique pungent flavor of ginger praised this powerful natural agent. Healers of Medieval times traced the origins of ginger to the Garden of Eden, while on the Indian subcontinent, references to this king of spices are found in the earliest myths. Known for its concentrated heating potency, ginger has been used across Asia and Africa to kindle the body’s internal fire. This is a strong, sweet spicy scent, and the essential oil is wonderfully soothing for aching joints and muscles, or an upset tummy. Ginger’s heat can be irritating, so be sure to dilute Ginger essential oil extremely well – “a little dab will do ya.” To ease an upset stomach, you can place one teenie-tiny drop of ginger oil, mixed into a tablespoon of honey in a large mug. Fill with hot water, stir, and drink. Instant Ginger Tea!

The Science of Ginger

Ginger is best known for its effects on the digestive system. When taken internally, it stimulates the release of salivary enzymes and enhances stomach emptying. As a result of these effects, ginger has been used successfully to treat nausea and vomiting in a number of conditions.

One of the most promising uses of ginger is in the treatment of morning sickness associated with pregnancy. Because of risks to the fetus, most drugs are diligently avoided during pregnancy. Ginger root seems to offer a safe and effective option. Studies form Denmark found that almost three out of four pregnant women experienced some relief from their nausea without any limiting side effects. The German Commission E has suggested that ginger be avoided in pregnancy due to theoretical concerns, although no cases of ginger toxicity have yet been reported. Considering its widespread usage without documented problems, ginger seems to be an acceptable anti-nausea substance when taken in normal doses. Use only natural fresh ginger root to gain maximal benefit with minimal risk.

Another potential use for ginger is in the treatment of nausea associated with cancer chemotherapy. In a recent animal study from India, ginger helped to stimulate the stomach to empty after a potent chemotherapy drug, cisplatin, was given. Although there are many new effective anti-nausea drugs available to treat the side effects of cancer therapies, they are generally very expensive and carry side effects. In this study, ginger was found to be as effective as the most commonly used drug.

Ginger also has potentially beneficial effects on circulation. Animal studies suggest that ginger may help lower cholesterol levels and reduce the stickiness of platelets. A benefit that has been noted for thousands of years is ginger’s ability to improve circulation. Both Chinese and Indian physicians prescribed ginger for people troubled by cold hands and feet.

Its pungent properties are also used to treat respiratory and circulatory problems. For people with cold hands and feet, drinking ginger tea or chewing on fresh or candied ginger can bring heat into the system. If you are feeling the onset of a cold, chew on fresh gingerroot to help clear your congested nasal passages.
If you are traveling on a boat or anticipate a turbulent plane ride, keep a piece of fresh ginger with you and nibble on it when your stomach feels queasy. If you are pregnant and experiencing morning sickness, chewing on a small piece of ginger may settle your delicate stomach.

Ginger can be an aphrodisiac and has been used by some to treat male impotence. (Please diffuse the essential oil in the air for that - I do NOT recommend a ”special” Ginger massage oil in any dilution for your man’s “problem” – trust me on this one!)

According to Gabriel Mojay, in his book, Aromatherapy for Healing the Spirit, (Holt, 1996); “Ginger oil’s ability to strengthen the yang-energy of the Kidneys makes it helpful for relieving lower backache, mainly when associated with muscular fatigue. According to Oriental medicine, it is Ginger’s tonifying effect on the Kidneys which accounts, in addition, for its action as a sexual tonic.”

And, “Traditionally associated with the astrological planet Mars – a symbol of force and virility – this dynamic, fiery essence activates will-power, stimulates initiative, and restores determination….Ginger oil is therefore indicated for those who may have clear plans and good intentions, but who lack the personal drive and optimism to manifest initiative and restores determination.”

Ginger blends well with the citrus oils, and the woods or resins. If you love the spice oils - you must try this!