Papaya - a world class meat tenderizer, natural digestive aid, prevents ulcers, and also a soft contact lense cleaner.Ginger The Safety Factor
Ginger’s anti-nausea effect may prevent morning sickness, but traditionally the herb has a long history as a menstruation promoter. Might it cause miscarriage? In large doses it might, so pregnant women with a history of miscarriage should not use it. One study suggests that ginger’s effects depend on the amount used. In the study published in Lancet, less than I gram was used to prevent nausea. To trigger menstruation, Chinese physicians recommend 20 to 28 grams.
A strong cup of ginger tea contains about 250 milligrams of the herb. A heavily spiced ginger dish contains about 500 milligrams. And an 8-ounce glass of ginger ale contains approximately 1,000 milligrams-none of which come close to the amount that promotes menstruation.
There have been no reports in the scientific literature of ginger triggering abortion or causing birth defects.
Pregnant women with no history of miscarriage should feel free to try modest amounts of ginger tea or ginger ale to treat morning sickness.
Though ginger generally relieves indigestion, some people who take it to prevent motion sickness report heartburn.
Ginger is on the Food and Drug Administration’s list of herbs generally regarded as safe. For otherwise healthy adults, ginger is safe in amounts typically recommended.
Ginger should be used in medicinal amounts only in consultation with your physician. If ginger causes minor discomforts, such as heartburn, use less or stop using it. Let your doctor know if you experience any unpleasant effects or if the symptoms for which the herb is being used do not improve significantly in two weeks.
Grows in Warm Climates
Ginger is a tropical perennial that grows from a tuberous root. Each year the plant produces a round, 3-foot stem with thin, pointed, o-inch. lance-shaped leaves and a single, large yellow and purple flower.
Ginger grows outdoors in Hawaii, Florida, southern California, New Mexico, Arizona, and Texas. It does best when well watered in partial shade in raised beds deeply cultivated with composted manure and kelp.
Ginger is propagated from young fresh roots, which contain eyes similar to those in potatoes. The ginger root sold in most supermarkets-with tough, tan skin-is neither young nor fresh, so its propagation potential is low. The best place to obtain growable ginger root is at an Asian specialty market. though some nurseries carry it. Look for gingerroot with light green skin.
Plant the roots about 3 inches deep and 12 inches apart. After 12 months, uproot the plant. harvest some roots, and replant the rest.
Ginger may also be grown indoors in deep pots with a soil mixture of loam, sand, compost, and peat moss. Indoors it needs warmth, plenty of water, and high humidity. A greenhouse environment is best.