Ginger (CO2)

(Zingiber officinale)

A CO2 extraction of Ginger root, if done properly, is closest to the smell of fresh Ginger root, but it is extremely strong. Sometimes, depending on growing conditions, Ginger contains a bitter note that is offensive to some but loved by others.  The therapeutic properties of the two extractions are similar in many ways but the CO2 extraction does pull more of the constituents Gingerol and shogoal (whatever that means in therapeutic effects).

THERAPEUTIC PROPERTIES: antiseptic, stimulant, stomachic, aphrodisiac, febrifuge, expectorant

AFFINITY FOR: circulation, memory, digestive system, small intestine, stomach meridian, base chakra

RESONANCE: physical, emotional, mental

PLANT FAMILY: Zingiberaceae

PART UTILIZED: root

EXTRACTION METHOD: steam distilled

AROMATIC CONSIDERATIONS: Ginger essential oil increases physical energy and stamina. It influences how we relate to money and how we feel about our material possessions. Ginger essential oil has long been considered to be an aphrodisiac.

APPLICATION: Ginger is extremely strong—the CO2 extraction being stronger than the steam distilled version.  Ginger, in both forms, must always be diluted very well and care should be taken to get only one drop if using either one in the bath.

EMOTIONAL - SPIRITUAL - MENTAL ASPECTS: Ginger is for the usually dynamic individual who has lost their drive and ambition and has become apathetic and confused. The emotional impact of Ginger is absolutely uncompromising. It insists on burning away illusions and mis-perceptions and replacing them with clarity and vision.

Ginger insists that we take the initiative and be willing to tackle and complete the hard tasks facing us in our life. The aroma of Ginger strengthens our will power, activates initiative, and restores our determination. It can boost our confidence in ourselves and give us additional vitality and ambition.

PHYSICAL ASPECTS: Ginger warms the body and the soul, helping one to tap into hidden reserves of energy. Ginger has been widely recognized since ancient times as being toning and stimulating to the digestive tract and for circulation. Because it increases capillary strength and circulation, it is of benefit to a long list of physical and mental complaints. A few unusual ones are: alcoholism, loss of appetite, impotence, memory loss, and motion sickness.

GENERAL INFORMATION: Ginger mixed with Lime is one of my favorite combinations in aromatherapy. I enjoy it for the emotional and physical lift it provides. This combination disinfects and purifies while leaving a uniquely pleasant aroma behind.

CAUTIONS: Ginger is extremely potent, almost caustic. Undiluted or used too often, it may irritate sensitive skin. Ginger is phototoxic; you must avoid direct sunlight on skin to which it has been applied for at least 12 hours. Never use more than 1 drop in the bath. Ginger opens the capillaries so quickly that a severe headache can result if more than a single drop is used—even with the milder steam distilled version.

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