Two Medicinal Members of the Ginger Family
The Curative Powers of Common Ginger and Turmeric
Sep 19, 2009
The Zingerberaceae family has over 1,300 species, most ornamental, but some edible. Both common ginger and turmeric as used as spices, but have also been used for centuries for their healing properties.
Zingiber officinale - Common Ginger
Ginger is the root that is found in the grocery store in both the produce section fresh, as dried powder, or candied. It is used for cooking and seasoning, and can be used fresh, dried, or preserved. In addition to being a tasty addition to many dishes, and a desirable candied treat, it also has many medicinal properties.
The most common medicinal use of common ginger is as a treatment for nausea. Although the use of ginger capsules is counter-indicated during pregnancy, ginger tea can be safely used. It is effective with the nausea associated with chemotherapy. Candied ginger has long been used as a digestive aid.
In her October 2006 article, "Ginger in Autoimmune Disease: The Medicinal Properties of Ginger Root", Elaine Moore states that its antibiotic properties have been shown to be effective in relieving the inflammation of arthritis and helpful with inflammation caused by auto-immune diseases, such as lupus and rheumatoid arthritis.
Ginger has also been used for its antibiotic properties, particularly the use of ginger tea for gastritis and ulcers. Ginger poultices can be used for infected sores, but caution must be used, as it may burn if left on too long.
Ginger can be taken in capsules, in a tea, or eaten in candied form.
Curcuma longa - Turmeric
Turmeric has long been used as an anti-inflammatory in Chinese and Ayurvedic medicine for treatment of liver and digestive disease.
In her January 2007 article, "Turmeric: Anti-inflammatory and Other Medicinal Properties of Turmeric", Elaine Moore says that turmeric is able to counteract to some degree, the effects of uveitis, an autoimmune eye disorder, without the side effects of steroids.
Studies have also shown anti-tumor properties, and an ability to fight infections, as well as having a healing effect on the liver.
Turmeric is used as a dry powder, mixed with food, or in capsule form, but is said to be more effective when taken as a loose powder.
Precautions When Using Ginger and Turmeric
The Botanical Online website article, "Properties of Ginger" states that during pregnancy, ginger should only be used in tea form, and not for more than two months.
Turmeric should not be used by those with gallbladder disease, due to its effect on bile production.
Any time herbal remedies are used, there is a risk of side effects. Check with your physician if you are on medication before using any herbal remedy. If symptoms do not improve in a week, or worsen, or if a high fever is present, consult a physician.
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