Discovering the Power of Dried Ginger in Ayurveda: Why It's So Important

Ginger, a ubiquitous ingredient in Indian cuisine, has long been celebrated for its culinary and medicinal properties. Whether in vegetarian or non-vegetarian dishes, ginger's distinct flavor and freshness have made it a staple in kitchens across the subcontinent. Beyond its well-known role in alleviating common ailments like coughs and colds, Ayurvedic wisdom extols the virtues of dried ginger as the true hero in the ginger family.

Ayurvedic expert Dr. Rekha Radhamony has recently shed light on the remarkable health benefits of dried ginger as prescribed by Ayurveda . In this article, we delve into the multifaceted advantages of dried ginger and explore why it is considered superior to its fresh counterpart in traditional Indian medicine.

1. Vata-Balancing Marvel

While fresh ginger is renowned for its flavour and medicinal properties, Ayurveda suggests that it can increase the Vata dosha, causing imbalances in the body. Dried ginger, on the other hand, possesses the unique ability to balance Vata, making it an ideal choice for those seeking relief from gas and bloating. Instead of opting for fresh ginger or ginger tea, Ayurvedic wisdom recommends turning to dry ginger water to harmonize Vata dosha.

2. Gentle Solution for Constipation

Despite its absorbent nature (grahi), dried ginger exhibits mild laxative properties, making it a valuable ally for combating constipation. If you struggle with morning bowel movements, consider drinking a glass of dry ginger water to promote regularity and digestive comfort.

3. Sustained Non-Drying Effect

Dried ginger's 'snigdha' quality, meaning non-drying, sets it apart from fresh ginger. This attribute makes dried ginger a suitable choice for long-term use, unlike fresh ginger, which can be drying (rooksha) and is best consumed sparingly.

4. Mucus Reduction Champion

Dried ginger's remarkable property of reducing Kapha dosha sets it apart from its fresh counterpart, which tends to increase Kapha. As a result, dry ginger water becomes a potent remedy for seasonal flu, colds, coughs, and various upper respiratory tract disorders.

# How to Incorporate Dried Ginger into Your Routine

One of the simplest ways to reap the benefits of dried ginger is by preparing dry ginger water. Here's how:

• Boil two glasses of water with a one-inch piece of dried ginger.
• Allow the mixture to simmer until it reduces to one glass.
• Consume this preparation as a medicinal tonic.

Incorporating dried ginger into your daily routine can be a proactive step toward achieving a balanced, healthier life, in accordance with Ayurvedic principles. Embracing the wisdom of Ayurveda allows us to harness the hidden potential of natural ingredients like dried ginger to enhance our overall well-being. So, the next time you reach for ginger in your kitchen, consider the remarkable benefits of its dried form, as endorsed by the ancient science of Ayurveda.