Sage Garden - Treading Gingerly in the New Year

It’s hard not to feel at least a little queasy over our current economic status. Anxiety, uncertainty, worry, it’s enough to make your stomach turn. Those not personally affected by what is going on are sure to know someone who is struggling. That’s why, as we cautiously enter into the New Year, it is so important to take time out to de-stress. Clear your mind, take a deep breath and reboot. And if your stomach is still feeling a little unsettled there is terrific little plant that can help sooth that upset tummy. Mostly commonly known as a spice, Ginger (Zingiber officinale) is especially helpful in digesting food. Not to mention it works great as a preservative and flavoring agent. How sweet right?

Now Ginger spice is nice, but Ginger root is twice as delightful. Used in cooking, baking, fresh or dried, put into tablet form or as a liquid extract for teas, Ginger root is one of the best remedies for indigestion and stomach upsets. It is also commonly used to alleviate nausea caused by motion, pregnancy and even chemotherapy. On top of all that, this powerful tuber has been known to lessen joint, muscle and even menstrual pain. Feeling settled already? Try adding ginger to your stress relief routine, you may just be pleasantly surprised!

A Few Gingerly Facts:

* Herb Ginger (Zingiber officinale) is not the same as Wild Ginger (Asarum canadense) which is actually a ground cover
* Be sure to talk with your health professional before starting any herbal regimen
* Ginger is native to the tropics, so if you’re looking to grow your own, it’s best to do so in a pot and bring this tender herb indoors in the winter.
Megan DiPerri

Megan DiPerri is a graduate of the University of Maine where she obtained a B.S. in Landscape Horticulture with a focus in business and design. A true plant nerd at heart and secret tree-hugger by night, Megan is dedicated and passionate about the environment. She is always looking to educate others on how going “green” is not only beneficial to the world around us, it’s the new wave of the future.

Her Green Living insights, "Sage Garden," will be featured regularly in future issues of Aetherial Living.

If you enjoy this article, or would like to know more about Megan, please drop her a comment at megan@aetheriaspa.com

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