The holiday seasons are arriving and so is the risk of getting sick. Be it the flu, cold, or simply just lack of energy, everyone is looking for ways to stay healthy this winter. While our first recommendation is always, “drink more kefir,” we recognize the value in including a variety of Mother Nature’s healing gifts into our daily habits! One of our favorite earthy roots is the spicy, warming, gnarly-shaped ginger.
Since the time of Confucius, ancient Chinese medicine has relied on ginger for its ability to “build fire” both as an aphrodisiac and digestive aid. In fact, this mystical spice inspired us to craft our spellbinding Ginger Elixir! Like turmeric, ginger has been used and consumed for centuries throughout the world. Whether it’s grated and steeped in tea, dried and added to a stew, or infused in a medicinal tonic, this superfood has some amazing benefits.
Benefits, Uses and Interesting Facts
- It contains strong anti-inflammatory properties that have been shown to reduce swelling in joints.
- Has been used to treat bloating, gas, and other intestinal and digestive ailments.
- Helps soothe the stomach and alleviate nausea.
- Detoxifies the body by being high in antioxidants (higher than many berries). Ginger can help eliminate free radicals, which assists your liver with its detoxing responsibilities.
- As an essential oil, ginger may help alleviate nausea and vomiting in post-op abdominal surgery patients.
Incorporate Ginger Into Your Lifestyle
Ginger has may applications in the kitchen! Here are some of our favorite ways to use this superfood:
- Grate and steep in a tea. Then sweeten with local honey.
- Pair it with garlic and other veggies in a healthy stir-fry.
- Add it to your green juice or smoothie during cooler months for a warming treat.
- Add it to a warm broth soup on a cold day.
Recipe Motivation
Ginger Peach Smoothie, Gingersnap Kefir Smoothie, and Farmer Cheese with Ginger-Rhubarb Confiture