Tea

• People who live in areas where ginger grows freely use it to make tea. The hot tea has a unique flavor, which some people find too bitter or too strong. Sweetening it slightly can help. Mixing small amounts of ginger with other herbs tones down the flavor. The tea is commonly made from the ginger root, which is either sliced and chopped fresh, or ground into powder and dried. Steeping it for a long time to draw out the oils, as in creating a hot infusion, is typically used for more medicinal applications.
  
  

Medicinal Uses

• Ginger helps in the prevention or treatment of nausea. Sailors are known to ingest it during voyages. A stimulant, people use ginger for many health concerns, ranging from colds, coughs, fatigue and indigestion to menstrual disorders, diarrhea, alcoholic gastritis and some heart conditions. Ginger's health benefits are attributed to its having antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Some alternative health practitioners also feel it is useful in the treatment of cancer. As with any herb, knowing the proper amounts to take is wise. Do your research, and consult with reputable herbalists, alternative medicine practitioners and your own physician if you are uncertain about how to use ginger in your health regime.
  
  

Turmeric Substitute

• The botanical name for yellow ginger is Hedychium flavescens, a species within the Zingiberaceae, or the ginger plant family. Turmeric, a member of the Curcuma botanical group, is a cousin to the gingers. People often use yellow ginger and turmeric interchangeably as the qualities of yellow ginger and turmeric are similar. Check with sellers to be sure you are getting the product you want. If you need turmeric for a recipe, but only have ginger, it is usually a stronger tasting, but acceptable, substitute.
  
  

Edible Aspects

• Since ancient times, this herb has been used in cooking. Many Asian foods, as well as East Indian and West Indian dishes, have ginger as a key flavoring. It can be combined with other herbs and spices to create curry dishes, and used powdered, sliced or freshly grated. Ginger can also be found in baked goods such as cookies and breads. Syrup can also be made through a somewhat lengthy process. Candied ginger is sweet and can be eaten as a treat.