Ginger’s many guises
The active ingredients in ginger retain their potency when they’re processed into almost any form. Many people prefer ginger capsules because they’re easy to take and provide a concentrated (and predictable) source of ginger’s chemical compounds. The usual dose is 100 to 200mg, three times a day.
Here are healing amounts of other forms of ginger:
* A 1cm (1/2in) slice of root ginger. Grating the ginger will release more of the active ingredients than slicing or chopping. It is also important to buy ginger when it’s fresh. Avoid root ginger that has soft spots or mouldy, wrinkled skin.
* 1 teaspoon of powdered ginger.
* 1 or 2 pieces of crystalized ginger.
* 1 cup of ginger tea, made with a ginger tea bag or half a teaspoon of grated root ginger. Steep in a cup of hot water.
* A 350ml (12fl oz) glass of natural ginger beer. But check the label to make sure it contains real ginger, not simply ginger flavouring.
Cautions and Side Effects
If you are pregnant, or have a peptic ulcer or gallstones, ask your doctor before using ginger. Avoid high doses if you are taking anticoagulant medication.
