Ginger is one of the most important and widely used spices worldwide. It
is a perennial plant belongs to the family Zingiberaceae, which consists
of 47 genera and of about 1400 species. Ginger is native to Southeast
Asia and has been cultivated in countries such as India and China for
over 3000 years. Today, Ginger is widely grown in hot, humid, tropical
and subtropical regions around the world. The plant has thin, board
leaves attached to a surprisingly succulent, spicy rhizome under the
ground. The root of the Ginger is tangled and thick. The rhizomes are
entirely yellow and are harvested when the plant is about a year old.
According to Ayurveda, Ginger is carminative and digestive. It is believed
to be useful in anorexia, in dyspepsia, and for the suppression of
inflammation. Dry Ginger is useful in dropsy, otalgia, cephalgia, asthma,
cough, colic, diarrhea, flatulence, nausea and vomiting. Pharmacological
studies have indicated the usefulness of Ginger in preventing nausea and
vomiting associated with chemotherapy, pregnancy, travel and seasickness.
Ginger also has antiplatelet activity, hypolipidemic activity and an
anxiolytic effect. It is an ingredient in many Ayurveda preparations and is
a folk cure for indigestion, fever, colic, and any ailment associated with
the digestive system.
Ginger is also an important drug in the Chinese and Japanese system of
medicines. In the Chinese Materia Medica, Ginger is indicated, for example,
for the treatment of vomiting, diarrhea, light-headedness, blurred vision,
dyspepsia, decrease in body temperature and high blood pressure. In the
Chinese and Japanese systems of medicine, the dry and fresh Gingers
constitute two different drugs that are used for different purposes.
Unlike dried Ginger, essential oil from fresh Ginger retains its true spicy
aroma. It has a woody, fiery fragrance, with sharp green top notes and spicy
undertones.
The fragrance of Ginger oil can relieve anxiety, depression, discontent,
irrational behaviour and stress. More esoterically, it is said to balance a
passive aggressive nature, heal poor relationships and enhance one’s
perception of time and space.
Ginger essential oil is not known to be either toxic or and irritant to the
skin. It is believed to be mildly photo-toxic, therefore exposure to
sunlight of the treated area of skin must be avoided for 24 hours after
application of the oil.
Do not take essential oils internally or use without the guidance of
a qualified practitioner. The information provided here is for general
use only and is not intended to replace medical diagnosis or treatment.
Pregnant women should always consult their physician prior to using.
