Ginger root was used in Chinese medicine for about two thousand years. It was brought to England about 1600.
It was thought to have many powers, including the ability to cure frigidity in women and to act as an aphrodisiac generally.
High blood pressure was thought to be relieved by it and, although it was later taken internally to effect a cure, ginger was originally reduced to a paste with water and applied to the forehead to bring down blood pressure.
Ginger was used to stimulate the heart and circulation. It was used in respiratory disorders, such as colds or flu, as an expectorant, and to bring down fever.
It was particularly noted for its use in the treatment of disorders of the digestive system, being used to prevent or cure nausea, relieve flatulence and diarrhea, and aid digestion.
Menstrual problems were also treated with it. It was used to promote the menstrual flow in cases of delayed periods.
Ginger was thought to be an aid to fertility. Impotence was also treated with it.
It was found to be useful in disorders of the blood, being used to prevent excessive blood clotting and to reduce blood pressure.
The aging process was thought to be slowed down by the taking of ginger.
Externally ginger was used in liniments to ease the pain of lumbago, and painful joints generally, and neuralgia. Chewing a piece of fresh ginger was thought to relieve toothache.
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