Nutrition II - Superfoods - Ginger Flashcards
Ginger:
Description
Aka: Zingerber officinalis
Beige bulbous rhizome with yellow fibrous flesh
Ginger:
Energetics
- Dry ginger is hot
- Fresh ginger is warming
- Dry
Ginger:
Composition
Volatile oils and compounds called ‘gingerols’
Ginger:
Dose and delivery
Incorporate easily into cooking. Alternatively:
* Ginger tea; pour boiling water over a thumb-sized chunk of grated fresh ginger. Can combine with fennel and peppermint to make a soothing tea for the GIT.
* Use fresh rather than dry ginger for digestive complaints.
* Can alternatively mix with lemon and raw honey for sore throats
* Capsules: split the dose when using for its anti-inflammatory and anti-microbial properties (e.g. 400 mg X 3 per day)
Ginger:
Benefits and clinical applications
- Digestive health
- Anti-microbial
- Anti-inflammatory
- Anti nausea agent
- Cardiovascular health
Ginger:
Digestive health
- The warming properties of ginger stimulate the ‘digestive fire’. It is a pro– kinetic that can be used to support the MMC, which is particularly useful in conditions such as SIBO. Ginger can also be effective in cases of IBD (E.g. tea).
- Dry ginger might be too strong for someone with a spleen Qi deficiency (weak digestion), so fresh ginger is generally more applicable for digestive complaints. N.b; spleen Qi deficiency contraindicates very hot spices
MMC = migrating motor complex
Ginger:
Anti-microbial and anti-inflammatory
Inhibits LOX, COX and TNF-a –effective for inflammatory joint pain (i.e. pain worse in the mornings). It has direct anti–microbial capabilities similar to garlic.
Ginger:
Anti nausea agent
Associated with its carminative effects. Can be used for travel, pregnancy and cancer related sickness. Ideally use fresh ginger for nausea (or a very small amount dry); dry ginger should not be used during pregnancy as it is too hot
Ginger:
Cardiovascular health
Circulatory stimulant and lowers LDLs
