Today, ginger root is very easy to find and to use. The ginger plant was very popular in ancient Chinese, Ayurveda and Greek civilizations.
A golden colored essential oil, ginger, comes in many forms; root, powder or essential oil (EO).
It is very beneficial for health and can be used in so many ways.
The Ginger plant is called Zingiber Officinale; it is very popular in Asian food dishes and now is used around the world for its high anti-inflammatory and anti- oxidant capacity. There are myriad studies proving its health benefits.
Gingerol is one of the compounds found in ginger and ginger essential oil has the highest amount. It has a warm, spicy and stimulating aroma.
Key benefits of Ginger Essential Oil
- Improves blood circulation
- Aids digestion by controlling inflammation
- Helps with nausea, vomiting or constipation
- If inhaled it can help treat respiratory conditions
- Immune support
- Decreases Pain levels due to its pain blocking properties.
- High antibacterial and antiseptic aid
- Combats jet lag and motion sickness
How to use Ginger Essential Oil
Ginger promotes healthy digestion. It is one of the best remedies for colic, indigestion, stomach spasms and tummy aches.
Try one drop of oil in a glass with ginger ale for relieving a stomachache after a large meal.
To relieve nausea add 2 drops to 6 ounces to water and sip. Or apply 1 drop mixed with carrier oil directly massaging into stomach area.
Ginger can fight a broad spectrum of infections. For internal infections consume ginger  in a tea by adding a few drops to your favorite brewed tea.
Externally it can be spread on the skin by using carrier oil, such as jojoba or coconut oil, to infected area.
Ease respiratory issues, colds and sore throats by using ginger to remove mucous from the lungs and throat. Add one drop of ginger oil to some warm green tea twice daily. Or rub directly on chest area.
Research shows it may alleviate painful joint and muscle aches equal to prescription painkillers.
You could try consuming ginger daily for best results. Or you can try a compress by making a ginger tea, soaking a towel in the tea and applying to painful areas. You could even enjoy a warm ginger bath!
Ginger reduces overall inflammation in the body. This provides relieve of any pain whether it is arthritis, migraines or muscles.
Try using ginger frequently; you can mix it up by using ginger powder in salads or stews or chopped fresh ginger in smoothies or essential oil in water or tea. This can help your overall body aches and pains, especially for us baby boomer generation.
Assists you in those trying times when you are depressed or have high anxiety; the warming quality relaxes and can act as a sleep aid.
Ginger is also well known to bring on feelings of courage and self -assurance. It is often suggested to be used for “empowerment”.
References:
The Aromatherapy Book by Jeanne Rose, 1992
Essential Oil, Ancient Medicine book by Josh Axe, Jordan Rubin and Ty Bollinger, 2016
http://articles.mercola.com/herbal-oils/ginger-oil.aspx
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Cindy Burrows, B.S., M.T., Herbalist, is a Natural Health Consultant helping individuals start health programs to improve their life, wellness and happiness. Cindy is a speaker, writer and entrepreneur of several businesses.
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