Healing Herbs: Ginger
Ginger is another well known spice that is also a healing herb. The root of the plant is the part used. Ginger root is effective as a treatment for upset stomach and gas. It is also very good for travel sickness and morning sickness. Almost anything that causes nausea can be helped by taking ginger. Take ginger before a trip to reduce the chances of getting sick and take it when you are sick to reduce the symptoms. Whenever I go on a cruise, I always bring along ginger root capsules or candied ginger root slices to prevent sea sickness. It also works well on dogs that get car sickness. Ginger also aids circulation and is recommended for those who have cold hands or feet. Recently, I read a magazine article that said ginger root is useful for reducing muscle pain, especially the type of muscle aches that occur after vigorous exercise. It is also helpful in reducing all types of inflammation such as arthritis and colitis.
Studies also indicate that ginger may help reduce cholesterol and prevent blood clots. It is also said to help regulate the heart and keep blood pressure normal by lowering it in those who have high blood pressure and raising it in those who have low blood pressure. Other research shows that ginger contains chemicals that are helpful in treating cancers but there isn't enough evidence yet to say that ginger is an effective cancer treatment. Ginger tea is good for sore throats, colds and congestion.
Oddly, ginger is used in some places to treat both constipation and diarrhea, so, in short, it keeps the bowels functioning normally.
In India, ginger is made into a paste and rubbed on the temples to treat headaches. It has been found useful in treating migraine.
Some believe ginger can aid weight loss by stimulating metabolism so you burn off more calories.








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