A Bit About Ginger
Ginger snaps, candied ginger, gingerbread men, ginger tea… there are so many ways to enjoy the benefits of ginger! Over the last 5000 years, many recipes and uses have been created and shared. It was a cultivated crop and common staple in ancient Southeast Asia until the fall of the Roman empire, freely traded and used both medicinally and in their cuisine. After the fall of the Roman empire, the cost of ginger skyrocketed, decreasing its availability and very nearly sending it into spice oblivion.
Fortunately, it didn’t stay there. Its popularity rebounded when Queen Elizabeth I invented the gingerbread man, making it a fashionable spice once again throughout Europe. In the west, we took a bit longer to appreciate ginger’s health benefits; however, we’ve recognized its usefulness as an ingredient in delicious recipes for many years.
Benefits of Ginger
Let’s talk a little about ginger’s benefits apart from its deliciousness.
- Decreases nausea from any cause (motion sickness, morning sickness, flu, etc.)
- Eliminates digestive gas
- Increases digestive enzymes
- Helps break up fats and breakdown proteins
- Warming and stimulating to the circulatory system
- Anti-inflammatory
- Helps support the body’s innate healing mechanism, thus reducing the length of colds and flus
- May have a positive effect on cholesterol
The recipe I’m sharing today is a wonderful preparation to have around the house in case of gas, bloating, nausea, or simply digestive support. The fresh ginger decoction is mixed with healing and enzymatic raw honey. You can totally eat this by the spoonful, spread it on toast, put it in seltzer water for a homemade ginger soda or add it to a mug of hot water for a warming cup of ginger “tea.” Let us know if you make it and how you like it by commenting below! ??
You can purchase dried organic ginger here or buy fresh from your local grocery store. Source organic whenever possible.
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Ginger Syrup
Ingredients
- 1 c fresh ginger, sliced
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 2 c water
- 1/2-1 c honey
Instructions
- Simmer ginger and cinnamon in water about 20 minutes or until liquid is reduced by half
- Allow to cool to room temperature and stir in honey to taste
- Store in refrigerator for 2-4 weeks, or freeze in cubes and store in a ziplock bag
Notes
Take 1 T as needed to relieve acid reflux, heartburn or upset stomach.
It's also great added to hot water, sparkling water or tea!
Safe for children over 2 (8-15 drops in water)
