Ginger arrived in the Mediterranean via India during the spice trades. In India, Ayurvedic doctors regard it as a traditional therapy known to activate the body’s fire element, which in turn burns up toxins. It is used to relieve muscle inflammation, motion sickness, morning sickness, and indigestion. Its zingy, warm flavor is added to soups, cookies, stews, and beverages.

Ingredients:

4 teaspoons ground ginger or ginger root
4 cups boiling water
1 teaspoon honey, optional
Preparation:

Place ginger in boiling water. Allow to steep, covered, for 10 minutes. Remove lid, strain tea into tea cups, and sweeten with honey, if desired.