Ginger used for centuries world-wide as a medicinal plant and culinary spice is cultivated in China, India and other Asian countries as well as the West Indies (Jamaica) and in Africa ( Nigeria)

It is a perennial plant with tuberous roots or rhizome, the latter being used traditionally for inflammation and rheumatism. Ginger root also assists digestion and is useful in dispelling flaulence and colic, cleanses the tongue and throat.

Ethnoveterinary application: ginger root is used for coughs and colds, eye diseases, and diarrhoea in ruminants, pigs and poultry. Leaves as well as rhizome treat wounds, mastitis, septicaemia, constipation and poor urinary flow. There are other applications.