The Root of Healing…Ginger Root, That Is

Ginger is one of the most well-known of natural healing plants in part because there aren’t too many people that haven’t been exposed to it in some form (everyone has a favorite sushi restaurant, right?). Overall, it has remarkable warming properties and detoxifying effects. 

If You Can’t Stand the Heat…

Ginger root’s warming properties encourage blood flow and really revs up your circulation. The application of a ginger tea compress on the skin brings the blood up to the surface and gets your body temperature up. The benefits of increased blood flow includes a decrease in inflammation and pain, including pain caused by arthritis or sore muscles (or both).

Ginger Tea for Me

The most common ailment treated by ginger root is digestive discomfort, particularly nausea. Considering it has warming and stimulating properties when it comes to the blood, it might be surprising that it has a nice calming effect when it comes to the digestive system. This is due to its warming properties as increased circulation reduces inflammation and makes digestive processes more efficient. But that’s not all. Ginger root encourages the transfer of nutrients and removal of toxins. 

To make ginger tea:

• Cut 3-5 slices of the root (depending on its size…fewer slices for a larger root). 
• Put them in your favorite mug.   
• Pour hot water into the mug. 
• Let it steep for 4-5 minutes.
• Enjoy!

If you do not like the flavor of straight ginger tea, there are other options. You can steep slices of fresh ginger root in chamomile tea instead of the hot water. Chamomile also has some properties in common with ginger and will also help calm the digestive system. 

What Cough?

Ginger root has strong antiviral and detoxifying properties that will help your body combat both the cold and flu. Ginger’s warming effect will help dry out stubborn phlegm, but if you still have that cough after all other symptoms disappear, it’s possible that there is drier phlegm in your lungs that you can’t cough out. If this is the case, another herbal remedy may be more beneficial. Remember to consult with your doctor before trying additional or alternate herbs.