Ginger

Ginger (Zingiber officinale) is another herb widely used in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and is particularly valued for its warming and toning properties.

Ginger has been known in many countries around the world for its culinary value, as well as its therapeutic properties, for over 5,000 years.

In TCM, ginger is classified as a plant that "warms the body" and "decongests the respiratory tract," and it is often used to treat imbalances related to excessive cold or stagnation.

In other words, it can be used to combat infections, fatigue, muscle pain, and, especially, digestive problems (vomiting, diarrhea, etc.). Ginger also has aphrodisiac, antioxidant, and antibacterial properties.

Here are some of the main uses and properties of ginger in Chinese medicine:

Warming the Yang and Expelling the Cold:

Ginger is primarily used to warm the body and dispel cold, especially in cases where a person suffers from Yang deficiency or excess internal cold. It is often prescribed to treat conditions such as:

• Cold in the stomach and intestines:

This manifests as abdominal pain, bloating, nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea caused by a stagnant cold.

• Cold in the respiratory tract:

Ginger is commonly used to treat the first signs of a cold, flu, or a productive cough with clear sputum.

• Joint pain due to cold:

In cases of pain caused by cold weather, ginger can help soothe muscle and joint pain.

Tonification of the Spleen and Stomach:

Ginger is very effective in strengthening the Spleen (Pi) and Stomach (Wei) in TCM, which helps stimulate digestion and promote nutrient absorption. It is particularly useful in cases of:

• Digestive Disorders:

It improves digestion by warming the stomach and dispelling dampness, which can help relieve symptoms such as heaviness, nausea, and bloating.

• Poor Appetite:

Ginger is also used to stimulate the appetite and promote the production of Spleen Qi, essential for digestion.

Disperse moisture and clear airways :

Due to its warming properties and ability to stimulate circulation, ginger is used to dispel dampness and improve the flow of energy (Qi). It is also commonly used to treat respiratory ailments, particularly those associated with mucus or dampness, such as:

• Colds, flu, and respiratory infections:

Ginger is often used to clear colds and clear the airways.

• Coughs with clear phlegm:

It helps clear mucus and soothe symptoms of congestion.

Relieve nausea and vomiting:

In TCM, ginger is widely used to relieve nausea and vomiting, particularly those related to:

• Motion sickness:

It is often prescribed in decoction or powder form for people suffering from dizziness or nausea related to travel.

• Nausea during pregnancy:

Although this use is common in Western medicine as well, ginger is used with caution in TCM to treat morning sickness (although medical advice is recommended).

Tonic for blood circulation and pain :

Ginger is also known for its ability to stimulate blood circulation. It is used in certain treatments to:

• Improve blood circulation:

It can help relieve pain related to poor circulation.

• Reduce joint and muscle pain:

It is sometimes used to treat pain due to stagnation of Qi and blood, such as that associated with arthritis or chronic pain.

Forms and Uses:

Ginger is used in various forms in traditional Chinese medicine, including:

• Fresh root:

-Infusion with 150 ml of hot water for 1 g of ginger 3 times a day.

-Pieces: sliced ​​or grated

• Dried root:

This is more "warming" and is used for cases where deeper warming is required, such as internal colds.

-Powder or extract: 2 to 4 g per day

• Tincture: 2 to 5 ml (10 to 20 drops) per day before meals

Precautions:

Although ginger is considered safe and effective, it should be used with caution in

Excessive Heat:

People experiencing signs of internal heat or inflammation (such as fever or infections) should avoid excessive use of ginger, as it can exacerbate these conditions.

In Summary :

In Traditional Chinese Medicine, ginger is an essential rhizome for warming the body, strengthening digestion, dispersing dampness, and treating various conditions related to cold or internal stagnation. It is particularly valued for its warming energetic properties and is one of the natural remedies used to maintain the balance of Qi and circulation.

There you go 😊 Take care of yourself ❤️