Ginger settles the stomach

A healthy stomach and diet is the first step to fitness and weight loss

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The nightshade family of plants spread from the Americas to the rest of the world mainly through three of its representatives: the potato, tobacco and the tomato. Ever since its rich vitamin content was discovered, the tomato has been mass cultivated and placed on the 'must' list of all health-conscious people. The tomato (lycopersicon esculentum) is native to Peru. Its mane is apparently of Mexican origin and means 'apple of paradise' or 'apple of life.' The Portuguese were probably the first to bring the plant to the Mediterranean regions. From there it spread to Turkey and the Orient, as well as across the Balkans to the rest of Europe where it soon became a popular food and spice.

Zingiber officinale No other common names

History and Traditional Uses

According to an ancient Indian proverb, "Every good quality is contained in ginger." Immortalized in the Pen Tsao Ching (The Classic Book of Herbs), which was penned in 3,000 B.C. by Emperor Shen Nung, ginger is one of the most widely used medicinal herbs in China today. And Chinese cooks use fresh ginger in most of their meals to prevent indigestion.

Healing Potential When it comes to quelling the queasiness of motion sickness, ginger has no equal, say herbalists. In fact, researchers have demonstrated that ginger beats dimenhydrinate, the main ingredient in motion sickness drugs like Dramamine, for controlling symptoms of seasickness and motion sickness.

Ginger contains various essential oils the exact composition depends on where the plant was grown. Two types of substances gingerols and shogaols are considered responsible for ginger's effectiveness as an anti-nausea remedy. Ginger stimulates saliva flow and digestive activity, settles the stomach, relieves vomiting, and eases pain from wind and diarrhoea. Herbalists also use ginger to remedy painful ovulation and relieve menstrual cramps.

Using Ginger

Ginger can be used fresh or dried, but the fresh root tastes best. Keep it refrigerated. Grate some into tea or add it to other recipes. Sucking on candied ginger can relieve motion or morning sickness, experts say. You can also take it in capsule form.

Safety

Do not use dried gingerroot during pregnancy, although fresh ginger and the powdered spice are fine. Because ginger may increase bile secretion, anyone with gallstones should consult a doctor before using the dried root.