Ginger is one of my favorite spices. Combined with cinnamon and cloves it evokes an aroma that is one of the "coziest" fragrances I can think of. Ginger has long been used as a natural treatment for colds and flu, and that will be helpful to know this flu season, as it poses many a threat to us. Many people find ginger to be helpful for food poisoning as well, which is not surprising given the positive effects it has upon the digestive tract.
Centuries ago, English herbalists believed that ginger was a "remedy" for rotting meat. It was also used for many other purposes, including insomnia, cold breasts, snakebites, swooning, and bad eyesight. Ginger was first introduced to Europe by Alexander the Great upon his return from Asia. At one time it maintained a good reputation as an aphrodisiac and it was believed that even the most prudent woman would be transformed into a vixen with the aid of ginger.
You should know that ginger root should not be consumed in doses exceeding 6 grams per day. To do so may damage the lining of the stomach and cause stomach ulcers. Also, do not take large doses of ginger if you are taking a blood-thinning drug. If you have any questions regarding herbs, spices, and your health, consult your physician. There are certain medications that do not mix well with them and it's possible to do more harm than good if you are not careful.
At the least, keep some ginger tea on hand this cold and flu season. If you like making your own teas here is a great recipe to try.
Ingredients:
4-6 thin slices of raw ginger
1 1/2 - 2 cups water
Juice from 1/2 lemon, or to taste
1-2 tbsp honey, or to taste
Preparation:
Peel the ginger and slice thinly to maximize the surface area. This will help you make a very flavorful ginger tea. Boil the ginger in water for at least 10 minutes. For a stronger tea, allow to boil for 20 minutes or more, and use more slices of ginger.
Remove from heat and add lemon juice and honey to taste.
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