Ginger

Zingiber officinale

fast FACTS

ORIGIN

Asia

EXTRACTION

CO2 or distillation

MAY HELP WITH

Aches and pains

Circulation

Cold and flu

Digestive upset

Fatigue

Ginger can do so much to promote good health and is historically documented as a remedy for nausea. With the potential to relieve aching muscles, upset stomach, and common colds, you’ll always want to have a bottle of ginger oil available.

Where It Comes From

Although this plant originated in southern Asia, many ancient cultures mention its use. Ginger’s flowering plant stands several feet tall, but all of its healing power lies in its knobby-looking root, the oil of which is distilled or derived through CO2 extraction.

Ginger is best known for its ability to soothe upset stomachs.

Characteristics

Distilled ginger root oil is pale yellow or amber with a warm, gingery scent and a hint of lemon. The CO2 extract is a deeper-colored, more viscous oil with a fragrance closer to the smell of the whole root.

What Makes It Great

Ginger oil is a warming multipurpose oil that may help:

•  Perk up. Whether you’re having trouble concentrating or you’re feeling worn out, ginger may lift you out of your brain fog.

•  Relieve aches and pains. Warming and analgesic, ginger is a pain reliever when applied with massage or a hot compress.

•  Ease digestive troubles. Ginger is best known for its ability to soothe upset stomachs and ease nausea.

•  Breathe easy. Ginger’s antiseptic effects may prevent cold and flu, and its spicy aroma may ease congestion if you’re already sick.

Bravery in a Bottle

Ginger oil has been called the “oil of empowerment,” referencing its ability to inspire feelings of courage and confidence. Inhale a few drops and strike a self-assured pose whenever you need encouragement.

How to Use It

Ginger oil’s therapeutic properties work in:

•  Massage oils and compresses. Let ginger work its magic to soothe sore muscles and arthritic joints.

•  Diffusers or inhalers. If you suffer from motion sickness, a ginger-infused inhaler may be your favorite travel companion. Breathe it in, as needed, during your trip to help alleviate nausea.

•  Balms and salves. Add diluted ginger to wound treatments to help speed healing time.

A ginger-infused inhaler makes an excellent travel companion.

Migraine Relief

With anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, ginger can relieve headache and migraine. Rub a small amount onto the temples while inhaling.

Blending Suggestions

Some blending combinations for ginger oil include: bergamot, black pepper, cinnamon, clove, eucalyptus, helichrysum, juniper, lavender, lemon, orange, petitgrain, rose, sandalwood, and ylang-ylang.

Safety Guidance

Ginger is an oil with no known safety issues. Use it responsibly as you would any essential oil. Complete a patch test if you are concerned about sensitivity.