Crunchy is not a word I would normally use to describe myself, but even some of my closest friends don’t know I’ve managed to conquer a number of serious ailments with the use of dietary supplements and herbs. Whenever medications were ineffective or too harsh, I’ve found natural alternatives. It helps that my mother is a long-time natural health educator.
To start enjoying some of these benefits of natural substances, you don’t need to fill your kitchen with dried herb bottles and tea. Start with one or two things which could make a difference in your life. Take Ginger, for an example.
Ginger is chemically classified as an essential oil. The dried version contains approximately 1 to 3% volatile oil which is the source of ginger’s characteristic smell. Ginger has been in use as a digestive aid, spice, and flavoring agent for over 20 centuries. In China, the roots are also used as pesticides against fungal spores and aphids. Ginger is also considered an herbal remedy to prevent motion sickness. I’ve actually tried this, myself, on the family sailboat. It helped calm my stomach, although, the seas still kept my head swimming.
Most importantly for those of us who are physically active, ginger is known to be an anti-inflammatory. Some researchers say it actually blocks the symptoms of swelling, warmth, joint stiffness, and pain. Ginger products are usually dried or baked, but you can also buy fresh ginger in small, glass containers with screw-top lids. The concentration will be slightly less than the powdered version, but think of it this way. If you’re eating fresh ginger, you’re just eating a food and spice used for centuries to add flavor to great meals. It’s easily available at almost any grocery store (look near the jarred garlic or in the asian food section), and in time, after regular use, you may notice a difference in your digestion, your flexibility, and your discomfort after intense workouts. It’s an easy, safe, and inexpensive way to start adding some herbal methods into your lifestyle.
