Ginger, the familiar spice, has a number of remarkable properties that recommend it for home use. It is a good treatment for nausea and motion sickness as well as a natural anti-inflammatory that is worth trying in all cases of arthritis, bursitis, and other musculoskeletal ailments. It tones the cardiovascular system and reduces platelet aggregation, as aspirin does. You can make a tea of fresh ginger by using about one half teaspoon of the grated root to eight ounces of boiling water. Cover and steep for 10 to 15 minutes, then strain, and add honey to taste if desired. You can also eat candied ginger or buy honey-based ginger syrups. Health-food stores sell powdered extracts of ginger in capsules as well as alcohol extracts; both forms are convenient to use. One to two grams of powdered ginger a day is an average dose, but some people report successful treatment of inflammatory conditions with higher doses taken over several months. High doses may cause a burning sensation in the stomach; to minimize this, take ginger with food.
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