Welcome to Herb Notes, I’m Tara Ruth.
Ginger (Zingiber officinale) is far more than a spicy addition to your meals. This beloved plant has been used for centuries as a powerful herbal remedy.
Let's dive into three gifts of ginger...
1. Ginger for Colds and Flu
When the first signs of a cold appear, ginger is one of the best herbs to turn to. Its warming, stimulating properties help increase circulation and promote gentle sweating, which can support the body’s natural immune defenses.
A hot cup of fresh ginger tea can soothe a sore throat, ease congestion, and help you feel comforted and warm from the inside out.
2. Ginger for Healthy Digestion
Ginger is famous for its ability to calm the stomach and ease digestive upset. It’s a go-to herb for nausea, motion sickness, or indigestion after heavy meals.
A small cup of ginger tea before meals can help awaken the appetite and prepare the body for digestion, while sipping it after eating can help soothe the stomach.
3. Topical Ginger for Pain Relief
Used externally, ginger can help ease sore muscles and stiffness. Its warming nature helps increase blood flow to the affected area, bringing relief and relaxation.
You can topically apply a fresh ginger poultice or a compress to the affected area sore or spasming muscle—taking care to avoid sensitive areas like the eyes.
And just a few contraindications to keep in mind…
Because ginger is very warming and somewhat drying, it may not be a good match for those already showing signs of heat or dryness. It should not be used in large amounts during pregnancy, and those taking blood-thinning medication should consult with their doctor before consuming large amounts regularly.
Wanna learn more about the benefits of other common herbs?
Visit HerbNotes.cards to grab a free deck of our top 12 herb notes. . You'll learn all about herbs like elderberry, chamomile, and more.
This has been Herb Notes with me, Tara Ruth. Catch you next time.
