Ginger!!! What do you know about this magical medicinal?
In TCM, ginger rhizome is used in SO MANY classical formulas. It is considered royalty. There are several ways in which ginger is used: fresh slices, dried pieces, baked pieces, prepared pieces (fried in something like honey, wine, or vinegar), the peel/skin of the plant, and fresh juice.
Fresh ginger rhizome has a wide spectrum of use and its effect is rapid (but it doesn’t last long). It is used primarily to induce sweat and expel pathogens. It plays a central role in detoxifying toxic herbs and foods like aconite, pinellia, fish, and crabs. It has been called “The Sacred Drug for Vomiting.” This herb may be used alone for early-stage colds, seafood poisoning, or nausea and vomiting. It also invigorates the circulation of Qu, fluids, phlegm, and blood.
~Dried ginger warms the middle and disperses internal cold. The effects of dried ginger last longer than those of fresh ginger.
~Baked ginger has a strong descending action and is warming, which is how it strongly stops nausea and abdominal pain.
~Prepared dried ginger is bitter, warm, harmonious, and stops diarrhea and bleeding.
~Ginger peel is acrid and cooling and focuses on the middle. It helps to promote urination and is used for superficial edema.
~Ginger juice is warm and is strong at dispersing and descending and is great for alleviating nausea, breaking up phlegm, and reducing cough.
~Ginger tea can be consumed at any time during the day, but it can be particularly helpful after a meal to help ease digestion.
Have any questions regarding ginger or any of its medicinal uses? Reach out to EAWB, our practitioners are happy to answer your questions!
