I am pretty sure I am not the only one who is now eagerly awaiting spring. February and March are not really my favorite months of the year, plus it seems that every person around me (myself included) has a cold. When I was studying Pilates teacher training in New York, I was friends with a girl who was half Japanese and she taught me this hot ginger water recipe that remained with me over the years. I still do this every now and then to prevent colds, flu and to gain overall better health. I have learned more about thisAsian herbal remedy since then that has helped me understand why I feel much better by making this a part of my lifestyle.
Ginger has been used as natural medicine for over thousands of years in Asia that then spread to the rest of the world. It is now grown in Indonesia, India, Australia, Fiji andJamaica. Ginger can be used in many different ways in the kitchen such as in soups, stir-fried vegetables, oven roasted vegetables, grained over fish, sauces, baking goods, smoothies. Also you can add a great kick to a cold pressed juice or even just regular juice. Use it alone and take a shot of pure ginger juice before each meal. You may find ginger in your nearest health food store, even regular grocery stores usually carry it or also in an Asian market. When you choose your ginger it should be firm, smooth and always make sure it doesn’t have mold on it.
As a second choice you may consider buying an organic powered ginger. I personally prefer fresh most times. It may be handy to have ginger powder in your spice selection in case you run out or may want the convenience of being able to throw some into your soups and other dishes.
Ginger’s special powers are:
Reduces inflammation: most of us know that inflammation is the root of most diseases.
Soothes and relaxes the intestinal track.
Ginger is very powerful in improving digestion. If you feel bloated often after you eat or have any skin conditions like eczema, acne or blemishes this may be a sign of inflammation in your digestive track.Ginger is very effective in reducing suchinflammation and supports the health of a good digestive system.
Relieves and prevents nausea. During pregnancy ginger is a natural, wonderful option if you have morning sickness. It is also known as a nausea relief remedy for people undergoing chemotherapy and radiation to treat cancer.
Contains probiotics and a specific kind of fiber which causes good bacteria to grow.
Boosts recovery from exercise soreness in muscles.
Often known as a more powerful pain reliever than medical medicine. For example, period cramps or arthritis pain.
As you see, there is a lot to gain fromginger. I can really swear by how efficient it is. When I make the gingerwater, I usually make a huge portion and drink up the water and then reuse theginger about 3 times. Just refill the water and boil. I usually do this for a week to 10 days and then on an “as needed” basis. If you suffer from strong inflammation or simply just like the taste then you may practice it for longer.
I don’t peel the ginger, instead I just wash it well. I usually take two to three huge ones, bring a large pot of water to a boil and in the meantime I chop up theginger in rather small slices. When the water is boiling I throw in the ginger and close tightly with a lid then turn off the flame. Let sit for about 30 minutes or even leave overnight, the longer it stays in the stronger the water gets. Generally 30 – 60 minutes will suffice. Drink it warm first thing in the morning. I just leave it out on my stove and heat when I awake. And then I drink it about 15-30 minutes before each meal during the day. You can take the water with you to work in a bottle if you’d like and sip it throughout the day to stay healthy and hydrated. You can also add some lemon or lime for taste.
I hope it helps to make you all feel better, if not at least it may prevent you from getting sick. 🙂
Love JM
@Photo, www.mamafedona.com