< previous page | page_57 | next page >
Page 57
| stops, suggesting that the herb actually helps cure the disease. |
| Ginger (Zingiber officinale) |
| This familiar cooking spice is a stimulant herb that enhances circulation and digestion. Ginger is so versatile that it is used for many conditions, and its ability to prevent nausea has made it a popular alternative to drugs that treat motion sickness and morning sickness. Applied externally, ginger increases circulation and brings warmth to painful joints. To make a warming ginger bath, grate fresh ginger root and place up to 1/4 cup grated ginger (or substitute 2 tablespoons powdered ginger) in a cloth bag or washcloth; tie closed with yarn or string. Place the cloth under hot water as you fill the tub, then squeeze it from time to time to release more ginger, or apply the ginger cloth to sore joints. For an even more aromatic ginger bath, brew a strong ginger tea by simmering the fresh or dried ginger in 2 cups water for 5 minutes; let stand another 10 minutes, then strain into bath water. Fresh or powdered ginger can be added to any massage oil. |
| Dr. Krishna Srivastava, an internationally recognized medical researcher on spices at Odense University in Denmark, tested small daily doses of ginger on arthritis patients for three months, during which most experienced reduced pain, swelling and morning stiffness and increased mobility. One 50-year-old |
< previous page | page_57 | next page >

If you like this book, buy it!