Spicing It Up with Ginger

Ginger is native to India and China and is also cultivated in Jamaica and other tropical areas. It was one of the earliest spices known in Western Europe and became so popular that it was included in every table setting.

During the nineteenth century, barkeepers in English pubs and taverns put out small containers of ground ginger for people to sprinkle into their beer. This was the origin of ginger ale.

Ginger is most commonly known for its effectiveness as a digestive aide. Japanese researchers believe that the gingerols found in ginger may be responsible for blocking the body's reflex to vomit.

They suggest taking 1/4 teaspoon of ginger 20 minutes before a car or boat trip. This should give you about four hours of relief. Or, make ginger tea by placing 3-4 ginger slices in a cup of boiling water to relieve nausea caused by motion sickness.

Denmark researchers have produced a few results that are still experimental. They believe that ginger can block the effects of prostaglandins which cause migraines. Taking 1/3 teaspoon of fresh or powdered ginger when you feel a migraine coming on can help stop the pain.