Ginger Root

I. General Information

A. Scientific Name:

Zingiber officinale

B. Alternative Names:

Adrak, Sheng Jiang, Jengibre

C. Pronunciation:

Jin-jer

II. Sourcing and Origin

A. Source:

Rhizome of the ginger plant

B. Geographic Origin:

Native to Southeast Asia, especially India and China; cultivated worldwide in tropical regions

C. Method of Processing:

Fresh, dried, powdered, or extracted as essential oil

III. Properties and Uses

A. Physical Properties:

Knobby beige root with pungent aroma; yellow interior

B. Chemical Composition:

Gingerols, shogaols, zingiberene, vitamin B6, potassium

C. Primary Uses:

Stimulating root for digestion, circulation, and skincare

D. Key Benefits:

Boosts circulation and warms skin

Reduces inflammation and muscle pain

Supports digestion and nausea relief

Antioxidant and antimicrobial properties

IV. Safety and Considerations

A. Potential Allergies:

Rare; can cause irritation in high concentrations

B. Best Practices for Use:

Use in diluted form for skincare

C. Special Precautions:

May interact with blood thinners

V. Fun & Educational Facts

A. Historical Context:

Highly valued in ancient spice trade routes

B. Did You Know?

Ginger is one of the few foods classified as both food and medicine in Ayurveda

C. DIY Recipe Idea:

Ginger tea, ginger compress, ginger sugar scrub