Food is medicine part 4

Have you ever suffered from motion sickness and nausea while travelling, only to down some Gravol and immediately feel extremely drowsy? That used to be what I turned to on early morning road trips or long overnight flights, but I could never get used to the groggy feeling that lingered. Now when travelling, if I can’t prepare something myself I will pick up the Gravol ginger chews, whose only ingredient: ginger; and you know what, it works even better!

Ginger is an extremely effective remedy for cramps, nausea, morning and motion sickness.

The rhizome (or root – which is the part of the ginger plant we use medicinally) contains a proteolytic enzyme that has been shown to reduce inflammation and help repair damaged joints and cartilage tissue.

Clinical studies have shown that ginger rivals antinausea drugs used during chemotherapy, but without the side effects. It also has antiseptic properties which make it highly effective for treating gastrointestinal infections and can help during a bout of food poisoning.

As you have probably tasted, ginger is warm and spicy.

Because of these qualities, in TCM we will often use ginger to warm up the digestive system and stop vomiting, as well as during particular symptoms of cold or flu, as it helps to release the exterior (i.e push out any pathogens/toxins that have invaded your body).

Ginger has also been shown to help get rid of migraines, if taken immediately at the onset of any symptoms, in a large dose (i.e 2 tbsp. of ginger powder into hot water), as it is invigorating, stimulating, and anti-inflammatory.

A simple tea recipe to enjoy the benefits of ginger below:

• 1 tbsp. grated or finely minced fresh ginger
• Squirt of lemon juice
• Honey to taste (about ½ tsp)

Place the fresh ginger in a mug with the lemon juice and honey. Pour boiling water over the ingredients, cover and let steep for 15 minutes. If desired, strain before drinking.

Enjoy warm!