The Health Benefits of Zingiberaceae

Zingiberaceae are flowering perennial herbs that belong to the ginger family of 1,300 species. The roots, or rhizomes, run along the ground horizontally, even in the air, similar to orchids. The zingiberaceae flowers even resemble orchids. Some species are used to make perfumes. The rhizome of Curcuma longa is dried to make the spice turmeric. Cardamom seeds come from the species Elettaria cardamomum. Ginger root is the bulbous root of the Zingiber officinalis. All three have health benefits. Seek the advice of your health care professional when using any herbs or spices for alternative medicines.

Ginger

Fresh ginger root is often grated and used in Asian cooking, or juiced with fruits and vegetables to add flavor and spice. However, ginger has enjoyed a history of health benefits as well. Ginger ale has been handed out by mothers to settle an upset stomach or improve digestion. It is also effective for motion sickness, nausea, arthritis and headaches. In a study quoted in the "Healing Power of Herbs," researchers found that ginger was more effective than over-the-counter motion sickness medication. However, it took almost four hours after taking the ginger to have any effect in reducing cold sweating and vomiting when compared to controls. Powdered ginger root in the amount of 1 gram was most likely to have an effect.

Turmeric

Turmeric rhizomes are dried and ground into a powder to produce the bright yellow-orange spice called turmeric. It is used in many Indian dishes to impart a distinctive color and flavor. But it also has medicinal properties, treating inflammatory conditions such as arthritis. In Ayurveda, the ancient medical practice of India, turmeric is used as an aromatic, stimulant and a drug to reduce gas. It is used in India to treat anorexia, liver problems, cough, rheumatism, wound healing and sinusitis. Clinical trials have found that a formula of turmeric, ashwagandha and boswellia reduced the pain of arthritis, according to Dr. Michael E. Weiner in his book, "Herbs that Heal."

Cardamom

In Ayurveda, cardamom is called "ela" and is used to improve digestion, relieve stomach cramps and reduce gas. It is a warming herb that balances your three doshas: the vata, pitta and kapha. The seeds are used whole or ground to a powder in baked goods. Weiner notes that cardamom is good for circulation and strengthening your lungs. It has also been effective for mouth ulcers. According to the 2011 "British Journal of Nutrition," cardamom may be effective in preventing nonmelanoma skin cancer.

Considerations

Ginger can cause gastrointestinal discomfort if taken on an empty stomach. Be sure to use it after a meal. Add turmeric to vegetable curries and Indian dishes. It is a yellow spice with a warm taste. Cardamom is often used in Scandinavian cooking and Indian cooking. Look for recipes that include either cardamom seeds or even the seed pods. Consult your health care provider before trying any of these alternative forms of medicine.