Ginger
With a Body like a Horn
To members of the Race, an alien species in Harry Turtledove's novel series World war, ginger is a highly addictive, psychoactive drug, with an effect similar to that of cocaine in humans. However, Sri Lankans, being human, use it more everyday needs, such as stomach aches, fevers, and nausea caused motion sickness - not to mention curries, pickles and preserves.
 |
| Source: http://thebalibird.com.au/travel-info/the-best-ginger-tea-recipe-yet/ |
In traditional Sri Lankan homes a guest is cordially treated with up of inguru the or ginger tea,Prepared by brewing plain tea fresh ginger. As a herb, ginger deeply ingrained in the island's society. In Ayurveda it is used to heal. Beauticians use it to promote young-looking skin. And chefs find a place for ginger in curry, desserts, pastries and drinks.as in antlers - is also employed in indigenous healing rituals, as an incense and as an offering to the gods. During traditional healing rituals ginger is used as a cleansing agent and burnt to create a pleasant fragrance around the ritual premises
A Brief History of Ginger
Ginger is respected around the world as a natural spice, a drink component, a medicine, an aphrodisiac, a tenderizer and a cleansing agent. Chinese herbalists have relied on ginger as a medicine and a flavoring for more than 2,500 years, It is also mentioned in the Koran, indicating it was known in Arab countries as far back as 650AD. Ginger was one of the spices that led to the opening of the spice trade routes.
A common article of medieval and Renaissance trade, it was one of the spices used against the plague. In English pubs and taverns in the nineteenth century, barkeepers put out small containers of ground ginger, for people to sprinkle into their beer — the origin of ginger ale. In order to 'gee up' a lazy horse, it is the time honored practice of farmers in Sussex, England, to apply a pinch of ginger to the animal's backside.
Ginger's Healing Properties
Since ancient times traditional healers have used ginger primarily to help upset stomachs. Ayurvedic medicine describes this herb as an ingredient in medicine for constipation,asthma, indigestion, nausea, colic and palpitation of the heat It is a wonderful remedy for digestive problems such as flatulence, nausea, intestinal infections and certain forms of food poisoning. It also helps to expel intestinal gas. A common remedy sought by Sri Lankans for headaches and migraines is crushed ginger and crushed garlic applied directly to the forehead.
 |
| Source: http://wellday.co.uk/2015/08/21/healing-foods-ginger-root/ |
Ginger is a safe remedy for morning sickness and does not harm the fetus. Ginger tea has been recommended to ease nausea in chemotherapy patients. Ginger also helps to relieve dizziness. This is especially effective in situations where dizziness has been aggravated by motion sickness. In an indirect way ginger helps to relieve chronic pain because it reduces inflammation. Ginger is a natural antihistamine and decongestant providing relief from cold and allergy symptoms. Yogi tea, which calls for ginger, is recommended for colds and sinus problems. The high content of potassium in ginger helps protect the body against bone fragility, muscle weakness, mental apathy, and kidney damage.
Ginger in Cooking
 |
| Source: https://cookingwithalison.com/2010/11/22/chicken-ginger-scallions/ |
Not only does ginger add a clean freshness to food, but it enhances other flavors as well. Ingurul dosi is a popular confectionery item favored in Sri Lankan kitchens. It is enjoyed as candy, used as a sweetener, and added to fruit cake. Women sautee fresh ginger before adding poultry, fish, and vegetables in their cooking, Not only does this add a spicy aroma but also a pungent taste to cooking. Ayurveda cooking favors ginger for its taste as well as healing properties. Ginger is a dainty plant with beautiful flowers that grows In tropical and subtropical climates. A seedling takes from three to six months to mature. The leaves are long and thin. The root, a rhizome, is harvested once the leaves die. The fresh root is hard and protected by a thin layer of brown peel, which is usually removed with a sharp knife before the root Is used for food.
Ginger in Juice
Ginger ale is a combination of sugar, plant extract, and carbonated water. Medical research has shown that ginger eases motion sickness and aids digestion. Thus, ginger ale is a popular soft drink on flights and cruises. Ginger beer is a popular carbonated drink In Sri Lanka. *
