Are Ginger and Turmeric Right For You?
BY KAREN TSOI , Registered Traditional Chinese Medicine Practitioner and Acupuncturist
Ginger and its direct cousin turmeric are both great for the colder months due to their warming properties.
Traditionally, ginger is used for stomach pain, nausea, and common colds because it is very soothing for the digestive system. Comparatively, turmeric is known for its anti-inflammatory properties, which makes it a great natural remedy for chronic pain such as arthritis and menstrual cramps
HOWEVER, many people overuse these herbs because they are unaware of the warming tendencies associated with both ginger and turmeric. For individuals with a tendency toward sore throat, acid regurgitation, or acute inflammation (pain), these flavourful cousins will only add fuel to the fire. This is because ailments of these varieties are signs that your body is heating up on its own as it reacts to the inflammation.
Ideas for mindful usage:
Simple tea - boil these roots and add some honey according to your preference. This is the most direct and convenient way to enjoy ginger or turmeric.
Cook with it - both ginger and turmeric are great condiments to spice up the flavours of your next meal! I add them to my bone broth, stir fries, curries, etc. For example, you can even mince them up or juice them, and combine with rice vinegar, soy sauce, and sesame oil to create a very simple Japanese salad dressing.
Supplement form - likely found at your local health food store. While supplements are a convenient option, this form of consumption takes away the freshness - and even effectiveness - of these great herbs.
Karen Tsoi’s primary goal is to treat and educate people with Traditional Chinese Medicine and acupuncture, and to help the modern world understand (and take advantage of) this ancient medical wisdom. She is a Registered Acupuncturist and Traditional Chinese Medicine Practitioner (TCMP), and holds diplomas in acupuncture, TCMP, and Advanced Traditional Chinese Medicine (Candidate for Doctor of TCM in British Columbia). In addition to her private practice, Karen is also an Instructor and Clinic Supervisor at the Toronto School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, and holds a position on the TCMO Traditional Chinese Medicine Ontario Association Board of Directors.