Packing the van again. Off to Hervey Bay on Wednesday so all of our worldly goods have to be found and repacked. We did find time however to visit the Buderim Ginger Factory in Yandina (30kms) from Pomona. It was an interesting tour particularly as Rob is currently working at one of Buderim’s Ginger suppliers. Buderim Ginger is the largest ginger factory in the world and was established in 1941. It has 23 local suppliers of the ginger rhizome. This area is ideal to ginger growing due to its high volcanic soils, high rainfall and humidity. Ginger is a rainforest plant. Ginger is planted in September and harvested in February. Ginger is also harvested in June and August when the ‘ginger’ is hotter. Buderim Ginger produces confectionery ginger and it is sweetened accordingly by soaking in a sugar syrup for 8 days. Buderim Ginger has the capacity to process over 5000 tonnes of ginger per annum and exports to more than 17 countries. Following the plant tour we then had a tasting tour which involved a tasting plate of their products. (Good sales pitch – yes we bought!) Apparently ginger is very good for you with many health benefits eg:
- Ginger has carminative properties (anti spasmic) and can be used to calm an upset stomach, providing relief for the relief of bloating and gas.
- The intake of ginger helps stimulate the secretion of mucus, quieting your cough and soothing any scratchiness in your throat.
- Ginger has been proven (in multiple studies) to treat feelings of nausea, particularly in the form of seasickness, morning sickness, motion sickness and as a side effect of chemotherapy.
- Ginger contains anti viral, anti toxic, and anti fungal properties, and is used for the prevention of and treatment against the common cold.
- Ginger acts as an antihistamine and aids in the treatment of allergies.
- Ginger displays anti inflammatory properties and can be used to treat rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, and various other muscular disorders. The chemical components of the root are instrumental in inhibiting the biosynthesis of prostaglandins which are responsible for causing inflammation. Thus the root has proven to be a highly effective form of treatment, in some cases, even more so than the NSAID's that are traditionally prescribed.
- Ginger contains special enzymes responsible for catalysing the proteins in your food, thus aiding in digestion and the prevention of cramps. The ancient Greeks used to eat ginger after a large meal in order to ease the digestion process.
- Due to its promotion of mucus secretion, ginger protects against the development of ulcers, unwanted holes in the lining of your stomach.
- Ginger has proven to help lower your cholesterol levels and prevent the formation of blood clots.
- Ginger is often used to settle an upset stomach or treat severe stomach ailments such as dyspepsia or colic. It is frequently used today in 3rd world countries to treat diarrhea.
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