Ginger, zingiber officinale, is a bit of a miracle medicine that Ayurveda holds in high regard. Its Indian name is shunti, but it is also called vishvabeshaja, which means the universal medicine. It strengthens digestion, cleanses the body and reduces gas formation. Ginger also helps against nausea (e.g. motion sickness), headaches, coughs, colds, swelling and joint pain. So feel free to use it in your cooking or make ginger tea. For joint problems and headaches, it can also be applied externally. Ginger effectively balances vata and kapha. It can increase pitta to some extent, especially fresh ginger, so if you have a lot of pitta in your constitution, it may be good to use it a little cautiously. Good luck!
