Ginger root or stem?

Ginger is often mistaken as being a root, when in fact it's actually an underground stem from a tropical herb plant Zingiber Officinale. After the fall of the Roman Empire ginger nearly disappeared completely in Europe, however its renewed favour is often said to be thanks to Marco Polo's trip to the Far East.

A world wide spice

Ginger grows best in tropical lowlands and forests requiring hot, humid and shady conditions and can be found growing in China, India, Jamaica, Nigeria and Australia. Ginger is used throughout the world for its medicinal properties and also as a pungent spice in foods. At various points throughout history, ginger was a much coveted but very expensive spice only available to wealthier members of society. One very wealthy lady, Queen Elizabeth l of England is credited with the invention of the 'gingerbread man' that became a very popular Christmas treat.

Ginger good for health too!

Gingerol is a substance found in ginger and has been found to inhibit blood clotting thus providing a blood thinning effect similar to that of Aspirin. In addition, animal studies have shown ginger to reduce cholesterol and triglycerides which when combined suggest that ginger is likely to be a good aid to help combat heart attacks and strokes. Perhaps one of the most commonly known uses is ginger's ability to ease nausea and vomiting and so has been used for sea sickness and morning sickness with some success.