Ginger

Latin Name: Zingiber officinalis
Herb Class/Action: Carminative, Digestive, Supports Healthy Inflammatory Response
Parts Used: Root
Flavors: Spicy, aromatic
Energetics: Warming
Traditional Benefits: Digestive support, circulatory health, musculoskeletal support, respiratory health, immune support
Meridians: Lung, Spleen, Stomach (Middle Jiao)
Key Actions in Eastern Medicine: Releases to the exterior, disperses cold, warms the middle Jiao, “guides” herbs in formulas, adjusts Nutritive and Protective Qi

Ginger is widely regarded in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) as a powerful herb for enhancing digestive health, immune function, and supporting a healthy inflammatory response. Known as a “guiding herb,” Ginger helps warm the body and spirit, strengthens Spleen Qi, and boosts vitality.*

Ginger has been used across cultures for centuries, with TCM honoring it as a “Yang-tonifying” herb that stimulates digestive function. In Ayurveda, it promotes digestive fire (“agni”) and is often paired with herbs to support a healthy inflammatory response in muscles and joints. These benefits explain why Ginger is often called the “universal medicinal herb.

As a diaphoretic, Ginger helps “warm the exterior,” promoting perspiration to aid detoxification. It’s prized in TCM for guiding other herbs toward their intended effects, making it a key element in many formulas. Ginger has long been used for digestive discomfort, leading to the creation of popular remedies like ginger ale.

Ginger is a perennial herb native to southern China, with over 80 species now found throughout Asia, West Africa, and the Caribbean. It grows annual stems with narrow leaves and clusters of buds that mature from white and pink to yellow.

Studies show Ginger supports a healthy inflammatory response, with compounds like 6-gingerol and 6-shogaol playing a significant role. Research confirms that Ginger helps regulate the production of inflammatory markers, supporting healthy circulation, immune, and respiratory functions.

In ancient Greece, Ginger was eaten wrapped in bread to relieve morning sickness, digestive issues, and general stomach discomfort.