New Delhi, October 31 (IANS). Our kitchen is actually a small dispensary, it is only necessary that we have some knowledge of Ayurveda. We find many herbs around it, which are very beneficial for our health. One of these is ginger, which is called Shunthi in Ayurveda. Ginger is not only a taste-enhancing spice, but is also a panacea for stomach, joints, colds, coughs and even weight loss. The taste of ginger is sharp (bitter), the quality is heavy and smooth (guru-snigdha), the seed is considered hot and sweet after proper digestion. It is a vata-kapha destroyer, but may slightly increase bile. It is difficult to count the benefits of ginger. It increases digestive power, removes the problem of indigestion and gas, increases appetite and gives energy to the body. In case of cold and cough, ginger increases the body’s immunity and helps in the removal of mucus. Ginger is also very helpful in joint pain and swelling. Ginger is also very effective in nausea and vomiting. It keeps the heart healthy, improves blood circulation and balances cholesterol. Ginger accelerates metabolism, which improves the fat burning process. It is also easy to use. Chew fresh ginger with lemon and rock salt before meals, take dried ginger (dry ginger) powder with warm water twice a day. In case of cold and cough, eat ginger and honey mixed or add basil, cinnamon and cloves to ginger tea. In case of joint pain, heat ginger powder with turmeric and mustard oil and massage gently. For weight loss, drink lemon juice and ginger juice in the morning on an empty stomach in lukewarm water. In case of cough and headache, apply dried ginger on the forehead, in case of sore throat, take a mixture of ginger and honey. However, ginger is hot in nature, so people with heat or pitta dominant nature should take it in limited quantity. Avoid excessive consumption in case of stomach ulcers, high bile or pregnancy. –IANS PIM/ABM Share this story Tags