Ginger has long been renowned for its use in cooking and for its aromatic smell, but did you know that there are also many health benefits of ginger root such as curing nausea and helping with digestion.The ginger herb root is used for culinary and medicinal purposes.

Ginger is a natural spice and is known world wide for its smell and pungent taste.

There is a wide range of benefits of ginger such as nausea, digestive problems, circulation and arthritis. Nausea caused during pregnancy or by travelling is one of the benefits of ginger root. Ginger is also known to have the ability to calm an upset stomach and to promote the flow of bile. Stomach cramps can be eased and circulation can also be improved. Ginger supports a healthy cardiovascular system by making platelets less sticky which in turn reduces circulatory problems.

* Ginger oil used for massage can help relieve painful arthritis due to its anti-inflammatory properties. Ginger is often included in many herbal decongestants and can help to minimise the symptoms of respiratory conditions, colds and allergies.

With all the benefits of ginger and continuing research, the ginger root is fast becoming a very popular medicinal herb.

* Researchers found that ginger can block the effects of prostaglandin - a substance that cause inflammation of the blood vessels in the brain and can lead to migraines.

* Ginger was found to be effective for relieving the severity of nausea even in cases of pregnancy.

* Many women claim that ginger tea helps rid them of menstrual cramps.

* It has anti-inflammatory properties that can lessen the pain of rheumatoid arthritis.

* Respiratory infections - it is well known for its warming action on the upper respiratory tract, so it has been used to treat colds and flu.

* It has been found to be effective in cramps caused by stomach gas. Ginger also stimulates digestion.

* It has a wholesome effect on the circulatory system as it makes the platelets less sticky and is of great benefit in case of circulatory disorders.

* As a mood enhancer, ginger's cineole content may help contribute to stress relief.

* It is a great mouth freshener and ginger tea has vastly refreshing properties.

Ginger Storage:

Fresh, unpeeled root should be wrapped in paper towels, placed in a plastic bag and refrigerated up to three weeks. It may also be tightly wrapped and frozen up to two months. (To use frozen ginger, slice off a piece of unthawed root. Re-wrap unused portion tightly and return to the freezer.)

Dried ginger should be kept in a cool, dark space in an airtight container.

Pickled and preserved ginger should be kept in their original containers in the refrigerator.

Store crystallized ginger in an airtight container in a cool, dark place for up to three months.