Ginger comes from a flowering plant originating in Southeast Asia. It is closely related to turmeric, cardamom, and galangal. The rhizome (underground part of the stem) is the part commonly used as a spice. It’s often called ginger root or, simply, ginger.
A recent study found that ginger plays an important role in fat burning, carbohydrate digestion, and insulin secretion. This spice also has anti-inflammatory properties, helps to lower cholesterol, lower blood sugar levels and lower blood pressure. Ginger contains gingerol, which has powerful medicinal properties. And last but not least, ginger can treat many forms of nausea.
You can use ginger fresh (pictured above), in a powdered form, or even as an oil or juice (never actually seen or purchased those). The fresh root is best if grated, then chopped, minced, or sliced as needed. It's also easy to find in powdered form for baking or adding to recipes.
Here are some ideas to get more ginger into your diet:
use it in baked goods
add it to tea or coffee
make a ginger salad dressing
add it to stir fry or sauces
mix into a smoothie
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