Guest guest Posted June 27, 2006 Report Share Posted June 27, 2006 Ginger Root Extract Ginger is a fan favorite in the form of ginger ale and gingerbread cookies during the holidays, but ginger is also an herb that is used for medicinal purposes. Next time you feel groggy, nauseated and achy (among other conditions), try taking ginger root extract… What Is Ginger Root Extract? Ginger Root Extract is made from ginger, most commonly regarded as a spice used in cooking. Ginger is closely related to two other spices, turmeric and marjoram, adding a touch of heat and lemon-flavor to foods. You may have had ginger before when drinking ginger ale or eating ginger snap cookies. How Does Ginger Root Extract Work? Ginger has been used in ancient India, China, Greece and Rome, both as a culinary and medicinal spice. Pills, hot teas, and crystallized ginger candies are used to deliver a ginger-packed punch that can alleviate nausea, dizziness, inflammation, muscle aches, allergy symptoms and even flatulence. Ginger is a popular treatment for easing digestive upsets, because of its action on the digestive tract to increase digestive fluid and neutralize acids, which can contribute to upset stomach. Ginger is a natural alternative to anti-nausea drugs and may provide an out for those seeking to eliminate side effects, such as grogginess, which usually accompanies conventional anti-nausea medications. Reducing nausea and dizziness is especially helpful for treating seasickness, morning sickness, postoperative nausea, nausea from chemotherapy treatments, and general digestive complaints. Two neutralize acids separate studies showed a positive correlation between ginger and decreased nausea. One study was conducted using sailors, split into two groups. The first group was instructed to take 1 gram of powdered ginger per day, and the 2nd group took a placebo. The group taking the ginger had a significantly decreased occurrence of nausea and cold sweats, which are classic symptoms of seasickness. A second study followed women who were undergoing surgery. They were also instructed to take 1 gram of ginger, resulting in a decrease in post-surgery nausea and vomit ing. Ginger also has anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving abilities, which is of huge importance to those suffering from arthritis, which is often a result of severe inflammation of the joints. Allergy sufferers and those dealing with a cold may also find relief in using ginger, as it calms the inflammation associated with these condition, thus reducing the duration of the symptoms. Muscle aches and chronic pain can also be calmed with the use of ginger, either taken orally or rubbed onto the affected area in oil form. Finally, ginger supplements or fresh ginger can be used to relieve excessive flatulence. How Can I Make The Most Out Of Ginger Root Extract? There is no RDA for ginger because it is not an essential nutrient. General recommendations given for digestive upsets, arthritis and chronic pain or muscle aches is to take 100-200 mg in pill form, 1-2 grams of fresh powdered ginger, or a fresh ½-inch piece, each of which should be taken with food to avoid stomach irritation. LifeScript provides Ginger Root Extract in our Digestive Relief pill. Ginger can also be used in tea form with the same great results. Pre-packaged teabags are available at most grocery stores, or you can make your own tea by steeping grated ginger root in hot water. Ginger ale is also available at most grocery stores, but make sure you buy a natural ginger ale vs. commercialized ginger sodas, which don’t contain a significant amount of the herb. Natural ginger ales give about 1 gram of ginger per 8-oz serving. If you have a sweet tooth, a great way to get a daily serving of ginger that can be eaten as a snack or on-the-go, is crystallized ginger candy, which is available at most health food stores. Two pieces of this candy can supply the 1 gram serving that is recommended for best results. As usual, it is always important that you check with your doctor before experimenting with herbal supplements, especially if you are pregnant, lactating, taking prescription medications or have a pre-existing medical condition. ********************************************************** "Life moves pretty fast. If you don't stop and look around once in awhile, you could miss it." -- Ferris Bueller's Day Off (1986) "To announce that there must be no criticism of the president, or that we are to stand by the president right or wrong, is not only unpatriotic and servile, but is morally treasonable to the American public". Theodore Roosevelt Check Out My Groups: Everything Natural http://health./ Everything Magick EverythingMagick/ Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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