An erect perennial with a tuberous, pungent root and spear-shaped, narrow leaves on a green, reedy stalk. The essential oil is produced by steam distillation of the unpeeled, dried root. Ginger has been used medicinally for thousands of years in the East.
Digestive aid: for stomach upset, gas, indigestion, bloating, and cramping. Ginger acts directly on the stomach, increasing muscle tone and stimulating movement of food through the system (peristalsis). It is approved by the German E Commission for this purpose.
Decreases nausea: for motion sickness and nausea. Treating nausea from post-operative surgery with ginger is a current focus of research.
Decreases inflammation: useful in arthritis and joint pain. Limited studies show a decrease in joint pain and an increase in joint movement.
Contraindications
Avoid taking large amounts of ginger (1,000
mg/day) internally if you are pregnant. There is no evidence concerning
external essential oil use and risks in pregnancy. Used externally, in
moderation and in proper dilutions, there are no contraindications.
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