Jul 31, 2009

Soule Restaurant's Food Facts: GINGER



Ginger is well-known in the Caribbean for its effect on the digestive tract. It is frequently used to eliminate the nausea from stomach virus’ as well as the morning sickness of pregnancy. However, its healing powers are well-known in Eastern societies as well.

Pythagorus was one of the greatest supporters of ginger in Ancient Greece, and King Henry VIII of England used it to protect against the plague. (Although its effectiveness with the plague remains unclear.)

In India, ginger is consumed on a daily basis in a lemon, honey and ginger tea, made by peeling and cutting a two-inch piece of ginger into thin strips and letting them sit in a cup of hot water with fresh honey and lemon; delicious, despite its healthy qualities.

Ginger prevents motion sickness just as well as Dramamine, and prevents migraines as would aspirin. Like aspirin, it also thins the blood, improving circulation.

It is used for heartburn, stomach cramps, and as an anti-inflammatory, relieving the pain of arthritis

One interesting study found that ginger induces cell death in ovarian cancer cells, and slows the progression of colon cancer.

Ginger does not interact with any other nutrients or drugs in the body. However, it should not be taken up to four days prior to surgery due to its blood thinning effect.

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