September 2013 Herb of the Month: Ginger

 

Good Morning!

September Herb of the Month: Ginger

Zingiber officinale is a warming, spicy and soothing culinary herb used for 5,000 years in Chinese medicine and Ayurvedic healing practices. Ginger contains more than a dozen anti-viral components which treat many common ailments. Its anti-viral and pain relieving properties are famous. It's used raw, in powder, ground and as an oil, but its most popular form is in tea.

Botanical name: zingiber officinale
Use: Good in preparations for muscular fatigue, rheumatism and arthritis. Helpful for conditions like diarrhea and catarrh... Can irritate the skin...
Perfume Note: Base
Blends well with: Rosewood, Coriander, Benzoin, Ylang Ylang, Rose
Source: root
Production method: steam distillation
Aromatherapy benefits: warms, sharpens, aphrodisiac
Aroma type: sharp, peppery, spicy, pungent
Warning: may be irritating to sensitive skin
Safety Information: "test" patch this oil on the skin (inside of elbow)

Ginger Tea

Ginger tea can be made with raw, grated ginger or dried ginger powder. It's important to make sure ginger powder is minimally processed without additives. Kitchen spice rack ginger is okay to use, but can be low quality. If you use raw ginger, cut up about 5 chunks and add them to a sauce pan. Add about 6 cups of water and cover. Heat to a boil. Vent the lid and let the tea simmer on low for 15 minutes. Drink two to three cups a day or as needed. Another option: Add either one generous teaspoon of grated ginger root or a half teaspoon of high-quality powdered ginger to a mug. Scald it by pouring hot water over it rather than immersing the ginger into the water. This releases more active components. Let the tea steep, covered if possible, for 10 minutes, give a light stir and drink while still warm. Add a soothing teaspoon of honey and a squeeze of lemon for a soothing cold remedy.

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