Originally from Asia, the ginger It is a plant valued for its multiple health benefits. It is especially used to relieve conditions such as flu, fever and allergies. In addition, it can be easily grown at home, a practical option to always have on hand and take advantage of its properties.
Medicinal properties of ginger
This plant has multiple health benefits. One study revealed that supplements gingercombined with antiemetic medication, reduced nausea by 40% in patients undergoing chemotherapy.
In addition, its therapeutic use is associated with improving circulation and relieving pain in the lumbar area. At a general level, they are also attributed anti-inflammatory effects, reduction of muscle pain and relief of discomfort during menstruation.
«Therapeutically, it is also used for poor circulation and lower back pain. On an emotional level, it can serve as a catalyst if you are procrastinating and lack the energy to do things,» explains Laurie Steelsmith, doctor of natural medicine and author of Natural Choices for Women’s Health.
They are attributed antihistamine and decongestant effectswhich makes it a common natural resource to relieve discomfort caused by colds, gripe and allergies.
Growing ginger at home: what is the procedure like?
Ginger grows from an underground stem called rhizome. It can reach up to 90 centimeters in height and has leaves about 20 centimeters long.
To grow it at home, one of the most practical options is to do it in flowerpot. First you have to cut a piece of ginger root that has at least three small visible shoots, which are called buds. That fragment is placed in water and, in about two weeks, The first shoots will begin to grow.
Then, one of those is transplanted sprouts to a pot with fertilized soil and water it regularly. In about a month the first stems will appear. It can be harvested between 8 and 10 months, when the plant begins to dry. At this time, it is recommended to cut the dry stems and extract the rhizomes.
- Get rhizomes (roots) in good condition, preferably in organic stores.
- Use a pot with a fertile substrate that retains moisture but drains well. Ginger needs constant moisture, but too much water can rot the root.
- Place the rhizomes with the shoots facing up. They should be barely covered by soil, leaving the sprout visible.
- Perform an initial abundant watering and then maintain the tierra moist, without flooding.
- Locate the plant in a warm environment, with good humidity and without direct exposure to the sun. These conditions favor its growth throughout the year.
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