Ginger: what it is and how to use this spice

Ginger is a ginger versatile plant that is used for various purposes. It can be used as a flavouring in cooking to enhance food, it is often added to cosmetics or used as an essential oil. This is rich in concentrated active ingredients. Let's see what it is and how it is used.

Ginger, a versatile plant with a thousand uses

Ginger is used in various forms. It is available commercially in powder, fresh, dried or as an essential oil. It originates from the Far East. It comes from southern China and in recent years has been widely used in Europe for its beneficial properties. Ginger, Zingiber officinalis, is a perennial plant that belongs to the family of Zingiberaceae, which also includes turmeric and cardamom. It is the root of this plant that is used as a spice, as it is rich in active ingredients. Many of the properties present in the root are attributed to gingerol, an oily compound, which is the main component of ginger. Traditionally, this plant is well known for its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant properties and as a remedy for digestive problems, although there are still no studies confirming this. This plant is rich in water and carbohydrates, along with some minerals such as calcium and sodium.

Ideal for various uses

Ginger is very common in Eastern cuisine, although in recent years it has become part of the regular diet of many. It is indeed often used in cooking as a flavour enhancer. Its taste is unique, slightly spicy and has a flavour reminiscent of lemon. It is used in the preparation of desserts and biscuits, fruit salads, yoghurts and ice creams. It can be added to drinks such as cocktails and non-alcoholic drinks or used as a flavouring for fish dishes. Additionally, ginger can be used as a natural remedy in the preparation of delicious herbal teas.