The Effects and Functions of Dried Ginger
1. Warming the Middle and Dispelling Cold
This herb is pungent, hot, and dry, primarily entering the spleen and stomach, excelling at warming the middle and dispelling cold, and invigorating spleen yang. It is suitable for all cold conditions of the spleen and stomach, whether due to external cold invading or deficiency of yang qi. For cases of cold in the stomach with vomiting and cold pain in the abdomen, it is often paired with Gao Liang Jiang (Galangal) as in the Er Jiang Wan (Two Ginger Pill). For spleen and stomach deficiency with cold, abdominal pain, vomiting, and diarrhea, it is commonly combined with Dang Shen (Codonopsis) and Bai Zhu (White Atractylodes), as in the Li Zhong Wan (Regulate the Middle Pill).
2. Returning Yang and Unblocking the Meridians
Dried ginger primarily enters the heart, capable of reviving the heart and invigorating yang qi, improving conditions of impending yang collapse. Therefore, it is referred to as returning yang and unblocking the meridians. This herb’s hot and pungent nature can return yang and unblock the meridians. It is effective for heart and kidney yang deficiency, with internal cold leading to yang collapse and faint pulse, often used with Fu Zi (Aconite) as in the Si Ni Tang (Frigid Extremities Decoction).
3. Warming the Lungs and Transforming Phlegm
Dried ginger can return yang and unblock the meridians, serving as an auxiliary herb for yang collapse. It is used for cold phlegm obstructing the lungs, presenting with cough, wheezing, cold body, and abundant clear phlegm. This herb can warm and disperse lung cold and transform phlegm. It is often combined with Ma Huang (Ephedra), Xi Xin (Asarum), and Wu Wei Zi (Schisandra) as in the Xiao Qing Long Tang (Minor Blue Dragon Decoction).
The above is an introduction to the effects and functions of dried ginger. In fact, dried ginger has many benefits, especially for those with spleen and stomach yang deficiency, providing certain supportive effects. Dried ginger is also considered a warming food that can help enhance the body’s vitality. However, those who are prone to excessive internal heat should avoid consuming dried ginger, as it may exacerbate their condition.
Contraindications for Consuming Dried Ginger
1. Individuals with Yin Deficiency and Excessive Fire
When consuming dried ginger, there are certain contraindicated groups. Firstly, individuals with a constitution of yin deficiency and excessive fire should be cautious. If consumed in large amounts, it can be detrimental to health and may lead to issues such as mouth ulcers and bad breath.
2. Women During Menstruation
Additionally, it is important to note that dried ginger not only invigorates blood and resolves stasis but also has anticoagulant effects. Therefore, to avoid excessive bleeding during menstruation, it is not recommended for women to consume dried ginger during this time, as it can significantly impact their health.
Dried ginger is a great food that can be used in cooking, but there are certain contraindicated groups to be aware of when consuming it. The situations mentioned above are ones that we need to be cautious about. The groups described should be careful, as blindly consuming dried ginger can affect health, which we should be mindful of.