Ginger

(Zingiber Officinale)

Also called: Root ginger.

Source: Native to south-eastern Asia; cultivated for millennia in China and India; introduced and widespread in several tropical countries; reached the West at least 2,000 years ago.

Medicinal Uses: Indigestion, nausea, motion sickness, colds and flu, intestinal parasites, hives, prevention and relief of headaches; bursitis, tendonitis and sports injuries; may help reduce cholesterol and narrowing of the
arteries.

Part used: Root.

Forms available: Fresh root, teas, capsules, tablets, tinctures, liquid extracts, crystallised slices.

Caution: May interact with anticoagulant drugs. Do not take therapeutic quantities if you have gallbladder disease. The amounts used in cooking are safe. Despite its blood-thinning qualities, gingci is unlikely to be harmful before or after surgery. Pregnant women who wish to use ginger for morning sickness should first consult tli ii health-care practitioner.