Ginger

Sanskrit/Indian name: Sunthi, Srungavera, Ardraka, Vishvabheshaja, Nagara, Adrak, Sonth

General information:

Due to its strong flavor, Ginger is an essential ingredient in many Asian cuisines. Its therapeutic benefits have been recorded in Ayurvedic and Traditional Chinese Medicine. Ginger is a potent anti-nauseatic and is beneficial in treating upset stomachs.

Therapeutic constituents:

Gingerol and shogaol, active components of Ginger, suppress gastric contractions. Both the fresh and dried rhizomes of Ginger suppress gastric secretion and reduce vomiting. The compounds 6-gingerol and 6-shogaol have a number of pharmacological properties, including antipyretic, analgesic, antitussive and hypotensive properties.

Key therapeutic benefits:

• The herb is useful in ameliorating gastrointestinal disorders like indigestion.

• Ginger relieves nausea, morning sickness and motion sickness.

• As an anti-inflammatory agent, Ginger can be used to treat arthritis and osteoporosis.