Ginger
Family: zingiberaceae
Part of Plant Used- Rhizome
Types of Preparations- infusions, decoction, herbal honey, tincture, cooking, infused oil, poultice, syrup, powder.
Harvesting- When the leaves have died or the plant is at least 10 months into growth the rhizomes can be harvested. The rhizome is covered in a thin, pale beige/ yellow protective skin, with a bright yellow, fibrous interior. Parts of the rhizome can be saved and replanted. There are no known sustainability problems. (Herbarium, 1012)
Chemical Constituents - Zingerone, shogaols, gingerols, sesquiterpenoids, volatile oil, oleoresin, lipids. (Herbal Supplements by Winston and Kuhn)
Actions- antiviral, anti-Inflammatory, antispasmodic, antiemetic, carminative, circulatory, diuretic, immune stimulant, diaphoretic, hypotensive, anti-nausea/ antiemetic, antioxidant, analgesic .
Taste & Energetics- spicy and warming
Dosage- Tea: 3-5 grams of fresh root in tea or .5 to 2 teaspoons of dried root per day. Tincture: 1-2 mL in water 3x of a 1:2 fresh tincture; 1-1.5 mL in water 3x for a 1:5 dry tincture per day. (Herbal Supplements by Winston and Kuhn)
The high concentration of oleoresin, makes ginger a good match for turning into essential oil. One must be cautious when using the essential oil because of the high volatile oil concentration can cause chemical burns on the skin. If using topically double the amount of carrier oil usually used in an average dose. Average dose is one teaspoon of carrier oil to every one drop of essential oil. (Ashley, Complete Guide) Do not take internally unless under the supervision of a trained professional. The essential oil can be used to remove warts. It can also be used in a diffuser for aromatherapy to reduce nausea during pregnancy. (Ashley, Complete Guide)
Safety- Not to be used when on warfarin or other anti- coagulant and blood pressure medications for its ability to thin blood. Be aware of pregnancy and not to use high doses and those with active gallstone disease. Cautions regarding fresh plant with digestive upset, and high doses of fresh plant causing kidney inflammation.Take caution when using essential oils as it can cause chemical burns on the skin from the high concentrations of volatile oils. (Gladstar)
Not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. This statement isn't evaluated by the FDA.
