Ginger - zingiber officinale

Another one of my favorites - in both essential oil and herbal form and a 'cousin' of Plai.  I love to combine Ginger and Plai essential oils for that hot/cold effect on muscles and joints! 

Ginger is perhaps best known for its ability to soothe an upset stomach -- the essential oil is no different - it's anti-emetic and carminative.  Like Plai, it's analgesic and anti-inflammatory, in addition to being antispasmodic.  Unlike Plai, Ginger is warming.  
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Importantly, Ginger has antimicrobial and expectorant properties and it supports the immune system which makes it a good oil for diffusing during cold and flu season.  Energetically, Ginger is grounding and stabilizing.  Emotionally, it can help strengthen motivation and will-power.

While Ginger is safe to use, it may irritate sensitive skin, so its dilution rate for topical use should be low..  It is warming and rubefacient, so when applied (even as part of a blend) the warming sensation is obvious.  



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