Perhaps no other herb, except garlic, crosses all barriers, foods versus medicine, Western versus Oriental, scientific versus folk tradition. Ginger is a universal herb in all respects. Components of ginger such as gingerol can inhibit the production of prostaglandins possibly more effectively that the arthritis drug domethicin.

The root has a stellar reputation for controlling nausea of all types. Studies have shown ginger to be especially effective in curbing motion sickness, morning sickness, and postoperative and chemotherapy-induced nausea. Ginger is an excellent digestive, aiding in the absorbtion of food, and elimination of gas and bloating. Ginger stimulates circulation so it is good for cold hands and feet.

The Chinese name jiang means to defend, suggesting that ginger helps protect the body from cold. Pulverized fresh ginger applied as a poultice to the head two to three times a day was once used as a (Chinese)folk treatment for baldness, and fresh ginger rubbed on the affected area is a folk remedy for virtiligo. The juice squeezed from the fresh root has also been used in the treatment of burns. In modern China ginger is probably used in half of all Chinese herbal prescriptions.