Ginger

Ginger in many different forms is used in both health and herbal medicines as well as in wonderful food dishes that are eaten regularly in many different cultures. The benefits of ginger include settling stomach upset and helping prevent motion sickness, as a cure for headaches, and as a general immunity booster to prevent colds and flu symptoms. In some studies ginger has been effective in thinning the blood and preventing heart related problems, as well as acting as a slight metabolic stimulant. It is typically the ginger root that is used either as fresh slices or dried and powder in the spice form. Ginger tea, used for cold treatments and nausea is made by steeping slices of fresh ginger in boiling water, then adding a bit of honey for sweetness.

There are many different varieties of gingers grown around the world. Wild ginger is often used in traditional herbal remedies, but ginger is also grown as a commercial crop in many areas.

Crystallized ginger is very popular as a candy or cooking ingredient. Fresh ginger is boiled with a sugar and water mixture until the sugar crystallizes on the outside of the ginger. It is then cooled and eaten or used in cooking or dipped in semi-sweet dark chocolate for a luxurious sweet.

Beverages that use ginger include ginger ale, a pleasant tasting soda, and ginger beer, a non-alcoholic, spicier and heavier drink. Ginger beer is often mixed with club soda and served on ice for a wonderfully refreshing summer drink.

In North American cultures ginger is typically used in cooking sweet dishes such as ginger snaps, a spicy, dark cookie or in the making of ginger bread houses. In many families decorating the ginger bread house with white icing and lots of candies is one of the traditional Christmas activities, although the house is largely decorative and is not usually eaten at the end of the holiday season. Ginger cookies and ginger bread are popular in most European cultures as well, and may be served with coffee or brandy, both which make and excellent flavor combination.

Ginger also goes very well with both pork, chicken and beef. Asian food recipes typically call for ginger and it is used in pickles, stir fries, and even in steamed dishes. Ginger steak is typically marinated in a strong ginger, wine and oil mixture and then grilled to perfection.

Ginger truly is a traditional herbal medicine that has become one of the most popular spices internationally.