Forms of Ginger
Ginger is available in several forms—whole fresh root, crystallized ginger, honey-based ginger syrups, supplements such as capsules containing powdered ginger extracts, ginger teas and water or alcohol-based extracts.
You can buy whole fresh ginger at your local market. You can use it immediately or freeze it and simply grate what you need.
You can also buy crystalized ginger at your local market or health food store. This type of ginger is great for upset tummies or nausea.
Ginger syrups are also available in most health food stores and are a good option for colds or other viruses.
When looking for an herbal extract, you can buy one with either a water or alcohol base. Water-based extracts are typically okay with most herbs but studies show that an alcohol-based ginger extract is more effective.
You can also buy a variety of ginger supplements, however, as with any supplement, always make sure it is a quality brand that ensures the efficacy and potency of its therapeutic ingredients.
If you prefer a tea, you can buy a commercially made brand or you can make your own using whole fresh ginger. If you decide to make you own, simply cut about a cubic inch of ginger from the root and then gate it or slice it thinly. Boil it in about 1½ cups of water for about 10 minutes. You can also add some honey or stevia to sweeten it.
When using ginger, it is recommended that you do not take more than 4 grams per day. You should also be aware that ginger is a known blood thinner, so if you currently use any type of anticoagulant, speak to a medical professional before adding ginger to your daily health regime.