Ginger has a warm, tangy aroma that is commonly found in many Oriental dishes and scents. While it is a prominent ingredient in the kitchen, not everyone is a fan of its earthy, musky fragrance. Depending on its distillation, some forms of this essential oil may be too overbearing. However, this doesn't mean you should pass up on this all-important scent. There are many reasons why this essential oil should be a part of your favorites. Why? Here are the reasons.
A spice for life
The origins of ginger can be traced back in India and China, where it has been used for its medicinal properties. Mainly, it was promoted as a cure for digestion. The locals take this in order to help digest heavy food items such as meat and poultry. Primarily, ginger aids in softening the meat while cooking. It is also used as a natural preservative.
The hot, pungent aroma coming from this plant makes it distasteful to some. The culprit: Gingerol, a powerful acrid compound that actually possesses many health benefits. Don't shy away from its smell; you can actually find many advantages for its unlikely warm and energizing aroma.
- Cure for the stomach. Solve indigestion, flatulence, diarrhea, dyspepsia and other bowel associated problems with ginger. The tea extracted from the roots can alleviate stomach issues and can help increase appetite--an advantage to those who are trying to add weight. Other than that, this essential oil is known for its antiseptic properties and helps cure intestinal infections and dysentery.
- Relief from Nausea. Ginger root, as many studies show, is a potent solution against motion sickness, vomiting and nausea. It may be used to alleviate pregnancy-induced vomiting in women.
- Treat respiratory diseases. The expectorant element in ginger makes it an effective cure against many respiratory problems, such as colds, flu, cough and even asthma and bronchitis. How? Ginger helps remove the mucus from the throat and lungs. Drink it as tea or blend it with honey to make the meal more pleasant.
- Reduce inflammation. The presence of Zingibain in ginger makes it a great analgesic. It helps cure muscle pain, arthritis, rheumatic problems, even migraine. To do this, massage ginger oil on the area to remove muscle strain.
- Prevent heart ailments. In Oriental medicine, ginger was believed to boost the health of the heart. In fact, there were studies which revealed that ginger helps in preventing high cholesterol levels and blood clots. When the blood vessel blockage decreases, there's a smaller chance for a heart attack to ensue.
Other than these factors, ginger is also known for its stress-relieving property. It is a powerful anti-depressant and relieves anxiety and dizziness. Ginger is also researched to be useful in aiding the treatment of cancer and helps dissolve kidney stones. Outwardly, ginger oil can help control dandruff.
Ginger is often used as a middle and base note and can be mixed with other essential oils such as orange and bergamot (rejuvenating), sandalwood (earthy), rosemary, rose and ylang ylang (romantic) and frankincense. Store your essential oils in one lovely organizer—browse in our store and discover the right storage for your favorite scents!
