The Power of Ginger

Ginger is the root of the plant Zingiber officinale and is a spice used for seasoning food as well as a powerful Medicinal that has been used in many cultures for thousands of years. Originating in China and then disseminating across the trade routes, ginger is one of the most widely used spices today.

Ginger is popular in Traditional Chinese Medicine and is often added to herbal formulas. Ginger therapeutic functions are to aid digestion and systemically warm the body. Moxibustion can be burned directly over ginger slices on the abdomen to “warm the digestive fire” for indigestion, diarrhea and nausea.

Ginger makes you sweat…

Sweat it out:
The easiest place for a pathogen to enter is the nape of the neck. This point is called Fang Chi, or Wind Pool, and lies where the head and neck meet. This point is often tender on palpation. This is why it is so important to keep your neck covered to avoid catching a chill.

If you catch a slight chill and feel that you are coming down with a cold the best thing to do is to generate a light sweat and then get under the covers.

Making a Ginger Root Tea is one of the most effective ways to promote a light sweat as well as reduce phlegm.

Making Ginger Root Tea:

1) Buy a root of Ginger (preferably organic or local)

2) Wash well

3) Break into pieces, or chop and pulverize with water in blender. Combine chopped ginger and water with more water to a pot.

4) Boil for 20 minutes and then simmer for at least 20 more. Strain or drink as is…Raw honey is a nice addition too, especially if your throat is sore.

Enjoy!