Ginger - Zingiber Officinale
HISTORY and CHARACTER
An erect, reed like perennial herb growing from a spreading tuberous pungent rhizome. Native to southern Asia but widely cultivated throughout the tropics. Ginger is a well known cooking spice and healing remedy that has been used
For thousands of years. Best known as a digestive, it is also used for nausea and travel sickness.
Ginger is useful for overproduction of mucous, or diarrhea. Due to its deeply warming nature, ginger is often appreciated by older dogs and those who suffer from arthritis. Energetically, ginger is hot and stimulant and a restorative of Yang energy, giving a boost to those who lack physical energy.
Ginger ignites those who lack confidence and the determination to carry things through, increases the feeling of self worth, and lifts the despondent.
PRINCIPAL USES - Physical
Arthritis, Backache, Congested lungs and sinus (white or clear mucous) Diarrhea, Flatulence, Lack of sexual performance, Muscular aches and pains, Pancreatic problems, Sluggish digestion, Soft lumps on the skin, Travel sickness
BEHAVIORAL
Depression, lack of confidence
I MOST OFTEN USE GINGER FOR
Depressed, run down dogs, especially if they have non-specific skin nodules or other symptoms of excess damp, such as diarrhea or clear mucous. Old dogs that feel the cold and may be stiff.
EXTRACTION and Characteristics
Steam distilled from the unpeeled dried root. The oil is pale yellow to amber liquid.
FRAGRANCE
Warm, spicy, slightly earthy, pungent
ACTIONS
Analgesic, anticatarrhal, carminative, digestive, expectorant, general tonic, sexual tonic, stomachic.
SAFETY & Cautions
Generally held to be non-toxic, non-irritant, but long term use can cause sensitization. Dilute well.
MAXIMUM dilution
2 drops in 5ml/ 1 tsp
Reference: The Aromatic Dog: Nayana Morag