Ginger works wonders as a flavoring agent (you most often see it popping up in Asian and Indian cuisines), but it’s also becoming more recognized by Western medicine as a positive force for health—something traditional Chinese medicine practitioners caught on to centuries ago.
Ginger has been proven to work for pain relief, cancer suppression, and as an anti-inflammatory. It’s most widely known outside of culinary circles as an anti-nausea medicine (have you ever popped a ginger candy during a trafficky car ride?),
but what many don’t know yet is that ginger also protects cardiovascular health and is chock full of antioxidants.Out of respect for the power of ginger,
I’ve looked beyond ginger tea to find more creative ways you can use the root, whether it’s a new way to consume it, apply it to your body, or even scent your home.
Ginger helps fight bacterial infections. Whether you feel the sniffles coming on or you just feel like it’s time to purge some toxins from your system, a ginger detox bath can help you sweat it out of your system.
To make a ginger detox bath, run a hot bath and add a ½ cup of fresh grated ginger. Soak for 15 to 20 minutes.To help relieve pain caused by back strains, sprains, or bruises, you can make a ginger compress.
Simmer ½ cup of fresh ginger in 2 cups of hot water for five minutes. Let the ginger steep for 15 minutes, then soak a cloth in the liquid and apply to the injured area until cool. Repeat as needed.
