Zingiber, commonly known as Ginger or Ginger Root is the dried rhizome of the plant Zingiber officinale, part of the Zingiberaceæ family.

Habitat – Native of Asia. Cultivated mainly in Asia, the West Indies, India, Jamaica and Africa.

Uses - As a stimulant and a carminative (relieves flatulence). Given as a treatment for dyspepsia and nausea. Ginger has many health benefits and is often combined with hot water, honey and lemon as a traditional cold remedy. Ginger is probably most well known as a culinary spice.

Characteristics – Agreeable, aromatic odour, taste pungent. The root is in flattish, irregularly branched pieces, usually from 7cm to 10cm. Each branch is marked at at the top by a hollow scar.