Dried ginger

Overview:
Dried Ginger, known as Gan Jiang in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), is the processed and dried rhizome of the ginger plant (Zingiber officinale). Unlike fresh ginger, which is used to release exterior conditions and stop nausea, dried ginger is known for its warming and restorative properties, especially for treating internal cold, warming the middle Jiao (digestive system), and reviving Yang (vital energy).

Botanical Characteristics:
Ginger is a flowering plant native to Southeast Asia. Its rhizome is thick, fibrous, and aromatic. After harvesting, the fresh rhizome is cleaned, sliced, and dried—often via baking or sun-drying—to enhance its warming and drying effects in TCM applications.

Traditional Uses:

• Warms the middle Jiao and dispels cold: Used to treat abdominal cold pain, diarrhea, vomiting, and poor appetite due to cold in the stomach and spleen.

• Restores Yang and unblocks channels: Applied in cases of Yang collapse with cold limbs, weak pulse, or fainting.

• Warms the lungs and transforms phlegm: Supports treatment of chronic cough with thin, cold-type phlegm.

Pharmacological Properties:
Dried ginger contains bioactive compounds like gingerols and shogaols, which have been shown to possess anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, digestive-stimulating, and circulatory-boosting properties. It is also researched for anti-nausea, antimicrobial, and thermogenic (warming) effects.

Preparation and Dosage:
Gan Jiang is typically decocted or used in powdered herbal formulas. It is often combined with herbs that support Yang or strengthen digestion. Dosage should be tailored by a licensed practitioner.

Precautions:

• Not recommended for individuals with internal heat, Yin deficiency, or dry conditions.

• Use cautiously during pregnancy and in hot climates or conditions.

• Should not be confused with fresh ginger, as the two serve different purposes in herbal practice.