Ginger
Ginger’s scientific name is Zingiber officinale and it is a member of the Zingiberaceae family. The rhizomes of the ginger plant are used for teas, though they are commonly referred to as roots.
Taste Profile
When consumed, dried meadowsweet has a sweet taste, along with aromatic and hay-like flavours, and some people also notice medicinal and almond notes. It offers a well-rounded, mellow flavour when enjoyed as a simple beverage, reminiscent of summer evenings in a meadow!
Active Constituents
Salicylic acid, volatile oil, spireine (salicylaldehyde), gaultherine, flavonoids, tannins, mucilage and coumarins
Therapeutic Properties
Analgesic, antacid, antiemetic, anti-inflammatory, antirheumatic, antispasmodic, astringent, carminative, diaphoretic, relaxant, stomachic and urinary antiseptic.
Traditional Uses
Meadowsweet has a long history of traditional use as a gentle remedy for digestive issues such as diarrhoea, nausea, and vomiting. It is known for its ability to ease excess acid and indigestion. Additionally, it was one of the original sources of aspirin and is valued for its pain-relieving and anti-inflammatory properties, particularly in addressing headaches and musculoskeletal issues like arthritis.
Contraindications
Do not use when there is a known aspirin sensitivity. Do not use alongside anticoagulants.
Taste Profile
Dried ginger offers a warm, earthy, spicy, peppery, and aromatically pungent taste. It makes for a beautiful, warming, aromatic simple, and some enjoy it served as iced tea with lemon.
Active Constituents
Volatile oil and oleoresin.
Therapeutic Properties
Analgesic, antiemetic, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, antispasmodic, carminative, circulatory stimulant, diaphoretic, digestive, emmenagogue, immunostimulant, rubefacient and stimulant.
Traditional Uses
Ginger has been traditionally used to improve circulation and counter chills by "warming the constitution." It has been used to alleviate arthritis, stiff and sore joints, and inflamed muscles by improving circulation and reducing inflammation. As a digestive remedy, ginger has been used to stimulate the appetite, reduce bloating and gas, and is now recognised as an effective treatment for nausea and vomiting from various causes. Ginger is also a great remedy for coughs and colds as it has warming and antimicrobial properties, which can help boost the immune system. It is also soothing when taken as a tea or used as a gargle for a sore throat.
Contraindications
Do not use alongside medications for high blood pressure. Best avoided during pregnancy and lactation.
