Ginger, either in root form (grated) or dried is one of the most useful, adaptable spices. It has traditionally been used to treat a range of ailments from arthritis to sea-sickness. It is used in both savoury and sweet recipes, from classic British gingerbread men to Indian curries, adding a spicy, hot taste to many foods.
Ginger to ease nausea
Ginger is most widely recognised as an excellent remedy to ease nausea, whether car-sickness or at the onset of a migraine. We found that even commercial ginger biscuits (cookies) would help a child prone to travel-sickness in the car; ginger in various forms has also been used to ease symptoms of seasickness or airsickness too. Ginger biscuits are ideal for nibbling on a long journey or voyage by those who are prone to car or sea sickness, and can even sometimes help mild morning sickness in the early stages of pregnancy.
If you are prone to nausea while travelling, it is well worth taking some candied ginger, or gingerbread or similar to nibble on as soon as the symptoms begin. If you suffer from migraines, a teaspoonful of ginger sprinkled in a glass of fruit juice at the onset can prevent nausea, and may also ease the pain of migraine.
Ginger as a possible aid for arthritis
The value of ginger in easing arthritis pain is less certain. Research suggests that for some patients, it may be as useful as some drugs - and certainly has fewer side effects. Just half a teaspoonful of dried ginger sprinkled into a bowl of porridge or granola can ease arthritis symptoms for the next few hours, in those for whom it is effective.
All in all, it is well worth making ginger a regular part of your diet. It may lower cholesterol, it can ease aches and pains, and it certainly helps to counteract nausea.
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