What is Ginger Root?

Already known (and loved) as a spice in cooking, ginger root is derived from the ginger plant—a cousin to turmeric and cardamom that’s known for its high level of gingerol. Gingerol is highly concentrated within ginger root. It’s considered one of the most important herbs in Traditional Chinese Medicine for the digestive system, adding Yang, or warmth, to help break down food.*

What are the Benefits of Ginger Root?

A popular stomach aid, ginger’s high concentration of the phytochemical gingerol accounts for its effects. Research demonstrates it reduces occasional indigestion and nausea, and helps empty the stomach more quickly after eating; not surprisingly, evidence shows that it may help aid with weight loss. Plus, gingerol serves as both an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agent, making it generally good for the body.*

Ginger Root Benefits: 

• Aids digestion
• Eases bloating
• Reduces inflammation
• Treats early-stage respiratory infections

Ginger Root in Traditional Chinese Medicine

Ginger, or Sheng jiang, warms the digestive system to help improve appetite, reduce bloating, and treat indigestion. In TCM, the stomach is thought of as a cooking pot—and ginger is said to increase the fire below that cooking pot. For this reason, it is used in most Chinese food dishes. 

It is also used to “release the exterior” of the body in order to treat early stages of respiratory illnesses. It strengthens the Lungs and balances the Wei Qi (the Qi that circulates at the surface of the body) and the Ying Qi (the Qi that circulates deeper below the skin). This is extremely important to help the body to fight off infections in TCM.*

Finally, ginger is often used in TCM herbal formulas to reduce the toxicity of other herbs.

How to Take Ginger Root

Ginger root can be found fresh or dried, and in powder or oil. Ginger root is used in many herbal supplements, including our Gut Feelings and Come Clean supplements, to ease digestion and support whole-body health.

Easily incorporate ginger root into your diet with The Hao Life’s Chinese herbal supplements. Explore our herbal superblends to find out which one meets your unique needs!

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