Healing Powers of Ginger

Ginger is a root that is used in many culinary as well as medicinal applications. Versatile ginger has played a significant role in Chinese, Japanese and Indian medicine since the 1500s. It has been prescribed for a variety of ailments including stomach aches, colds and flu, nausea, diarrhea, arthritis and respiratory disorders.

Ginger is especially well known for its effectiveness in alleviating gastrointestinal distress. Extracts of ginger are found in a multitude of commercial digestive, laxative and antacid remedies. Ginger relaxes the intestinal tract and promotes elimination of intestinal gas. It has also been shown to be effective in alleviating nausea and vomiting associated with pregnancy, chemotherapy, surgery, or motion. Ginger may also be helpful in reducing symptoms associated with arthritis, joint and muscle pain because of its anti-inflammatory constituents called "gingerols." Nutritionally, ginger contains moderate amounts of potassium, magnesium, and vitamin B6.

Ginger’s warming nature makes it good candidate for wintertime consumption, but it can be consumed during any season. Working with ginger in the kitchen is fairly simple. Fresh ginger root can be found in your local grocery store. Before use, remove the skin with the edge of a spoon or a pairing knife. Mince or grate and add to a salad dressing, vegetable sauté, fish or poultry marinade. Steep in boiling water and drink as a tea with honey and lemon or chill and enjoy a ginger cooler.

Enjoy this spicy, sweet salad dressing. Serve with your favorite fresh salad greens.

Ginger Tahini Dressing
2-3 tablespoons raw sesame tahini
1 tablespoon tamari or soy sauce
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
3 teaspoons raw apple cider vinegar (optional)
2 tablespoons mirin or cooking sake
1 tablespoon maple syrup
2-3 teaspoons fresh ginger root, minced
1/2-1 clove of garlic, crushed
Crushed black pepper and sea salt to taste

In a mixing bowl, whisk together ingredients until mixture achieves a thickness.
Prep time: 5 minutes
Serves: 4-5
Copyright 2009, Genevieve Sherrow, Original Recipe.

Ginger Honey Carrots
Simple. Nutritious. Delicious. A recipe need not be complicated to pack in the flavor and all those good-for-you ingredients. Prepare this tasty side dish in about 15 minutes.

2 large carrots, peeled and cut into half moons
1 tablespoon honey
2 tablespoons unrefined extra virgin olive oil
Pinch sea salt
Pinch black pepper
1 tablespoon fresh ginger, peeled and minced

Coat carrots with honey, 1 tablespoon of olive oil, salt and pepper. Heat sauté pan to medium high, then add the remaining olive oil. Sauté minced ginger in pan until it turns light brown and starts to crackle. Add carrots and sauté until soft, approximately 10 minutes.
Prep time: 15 minutes
Makes 1-2 servings
Copyright 2009, Genevieve Sherrow, Original Recipe.