The health benefits of ginger are plentiful and it is often classified as a wonderful spice with both medicinal and culinary benefits. More than forty-four hundred years ago, according to the “Rodale Herb Encyclopedia,” Greek bakers made gingerbread with imported ginger from the East. In the 16th century the Spanish cultivated it. From Jamaica, the conquerors brought it to the New World. In 1884, Great Britain imported more than 5 million pounds of ginger root. The origin of ginger is uncertain. It is believed to be native to southern China and India. Then it was introduced in South Florida. It grows well in fertile, well-drained, moist soils that can be partially shaded.
The various health and nutritional benefits of ginger
Ginger contains bisabolene, borneal, borneol, camphene, choline, cineole, citral, ginerol, inositol, volatile oils, PABA, phelandrene, pungent resin, sequiterpene, many B vitamins, zingerone and zingiberene. It has been used throughout history to treat colitis, diverticulosis, nausea, gas and indigestion, tongue paralysis, morning sickness, vomiting, hot flashes, and menstrual cramps. It is said to cleanse the colon and stimulate circulation. It has also been used to treat colds and sore throats.
Although ginger can be very spicy for the tongue, it is supposedly good for indigestion. It is a safe and effective herb. There has been some research to suggest that it is also very effective against motion sickness. Ginger helps promote circulation and is a very mild stimulant. Ginger tea is said to be very effective in preventing colds. It can also be used in the spring to make an excellent spring toner to wake up the body after a long cold winter and many claim that it is capable of cleansing the blood, or at least giving an invigorating boost.
Growing ginger
Ginger is grown commercially in much of the tropics and in other regions it can be grown in pots or container gardening. To grow yours, give your purchased rhizome plenty of heat, moisture, and humidity after planting. You can move it outdoors in the warmer months in a somewhat shady area. About 12 months after planting, you can remove it from the pot. Remove the fibrous roots. Cut everything you can use. Save a small amount for replanting in a new pot. You can buy commercially fresh ginger, ground dried, or dried chunks. Fresh ginger should be wrapped tightly and stored in the refrigerator. It can last for several months when stored this way.
Ginger ale recipe
Who hasn’t enjoyed a tall, chilled glass of ginger ale? Ginger ale was considered the most popular soft drink in the US in the early years between 1860 and 1930. There are several different types of recipes for how to make your own homemade ginger ale or ginger ale. A simple homemade ginger ale recipe is to take some fresh ginger and mash the root. Place a cup of the root in about a gallon of water and bring it to a boil. Remove from the heat and let it rest for about 15 minutes. This will release the powerful flavor and healthy properties of ginger. Then you strain it. You can add honey or the sweetener of your choice to this tea. Then simply add the desired amount to some carbonated water.
Ginger ale commonly contains ginger, sugar, and carbonated water. Ginger beer has a stronger ginger flavor and is less carbonated and much less sweet. For those trying to cut down on their alcohol consumption, ginger ale can be used as a non-alcoholic substitute for punch and champagne at various events and occasions. These drinks can resemble champagne and other flavored alcohols in appearance. Many have been given ginger ale to ease an upset stomach. This is due to the presence of ginger + carbonated water that has a calming effect on the stomach.
Other culinary uses of ginger
Ginger is a super sugar substitute that will provide great flavor with almost no added calories. You can use it to make gingerbread, spice cookies, and cakes. It enhances many meat dishes such as chicken and beef and for making sauces and marinades. A little ground ginger added to mayonnaise makes a great dressing for a pear salad. One suggestion from the chef is to put 1 slice of peeled fresh ginger in a marinade you make for every pound of meat or chicken. If you like fried chicken and livers, you can make seasoned flour by stirring some ground ginger into the flour mixture to add the meat before frying. Ginger root can be used fresh or dried in recipes from North Africa, Southeast Asia, the Caribbean, Japan, China, and eastern India. In Chinese cooking, you will usually find that you brown a piece of fresh ginger root first. Then add your stir-fry vegetables to this.
To make ginger tea, use a pinch to a tablespoon of powdered ginger per cup of boiling water. You can also grate or cut the fresh root and then simmer it in water until you have what is yellowish water. You can also add other helpful herbs to the soaking water, such as peppermint, some powdered cloves, or some bruised cloves. Let it sit and strain and drink throughout the day to promote good health. If you prefer a stronger tea, increase the amount of ginger rather than letting it steep for a long period of time.
Ginger baths can be another great health benefit in addition to consuming the herb. Ginger baths can help relieve pain and increase circulation. Just drop some grated ginger into your bath and soak in. You can also soak cloths in ginger tea and apply them directly to the sore area of the body.
Allergies
While there is talk of the benefits of ginger, there are those who may be allergic to ginger. Serious allergic reactions to ginger can include rash, hives, shortness of breath, and various forms of dermatitis. If this is the case, stop taking ginger immediately and seek medical attention. Few side effects have been associated with ginger taken in low doses. In conclusion, there seem to be many benefits to adding ginger to your diet. The health benefits of ginger are exceptional and it has the ability to add great flavor to the diet.
Summary
A fiery spice, ginger’s health benefits range from increasing circulation to helping with indigestion, as well as being an ingredient in many dishes around the world and easy to incorporate into many quick and simple dishes as part of your diet. daily.
