I do not agree with her when she states that it is a relief for chemotherapy. Ginger should never be combined with pharmaceutical drugs. It has severe side effects. But for those who are not on any statins or pharmaceutical drugs, this is a great recipe and one I will try today.
Make sure to purchase her book: Medicinal Herbs
Ginger Medicinal Uses
Ginger contains a proteolytic enzyme that has been shown to reduce inflammation and help repair damaged joints and cartilage tissue; no wonder it’s been a longtime favorite for treating arthritis and joint pain. It improves circulation in the pelvis and is often a main ingredient in reproductive tonics for men and women and in formulas for menstrual cramps and PMS. Numerous studies confirm that ginger lowers blood-level triglycerides linked to diabetes and heart disease. And several clinical studies find ginger more effective than over-the-counter medications for nausea, motion sickness, and seasickness (something every herbalist knows). Clinical studies also show that ginger rivals antinausea drugs for chemotherapy, without their side effects. Its antiseptic properties make ginger highly effective for treating gastrointestinal infections, and it is used in formulas for food poisoning. It is a popular warming, decongesting herb used for cold-type imbalances such as poor circulation, colds and flus, respiratory congestion, and sore throat. All this and it’s delicious, too!
Hot Ginger Balls (a.k.a. Hot Balls)
- 2 tablespoons gingerroot powder
- 1–2 tablespoons carob or unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 tablespoon cinnamon powder
- Honey
Combine the ginger, carob or cocoa powder, and cinnamon in a bowl, then mix in enough honey so that the mixture takes on the texture of bread dough. Add ½ teaspoon water, mix well, and knead for a few minutes. (Add more ginger powder or carob or cocoa powder to thicken if necessary.) Roll into pea-size balls. Let dry at room temperature or in a dehydrator, and store in a glass jar with a tight-fitting lid. Kept in a cool, dark location, these little balls will keep for 3 to 4 weeks; they’ll keep even longer if stored in the refrigerator.
To use:
Take two or three balls as needed to calm an upset stomach. For motion- or seasickness, take two or three balls an hour before traveling, so they have a chance to start working, then take as needed.
Rosemary Gladstar is a renowned herbal teacher and practitioner with more than 35 years of experience working with herbs. She’s the author of Rosemary Gladstar’s Herbal Recipes for Vibrant Health and Herbal Healing for Women, director of the International Herb Symposium and the annual Women’s Herbal Conference, cofounder of the Traditional Medicinal Tea Company (for which she formulated the original blends), and founding president of the nonprofit United Plant Savers.
