Full Bloom: Ginger
To see a world in a grain of sand and a heaven in a wild flower - William Blake
A familiar sight in tropical areas of the world, the delicate blossoms of white ginger (Hedychium coronarium, Zingiberaceae) sit on tall stalks, framed by spear-shaped leaves. Known also as the ginger lily and butterfly lily, it bears delicate white flowers with a yellow center and a heady, gardenia-like scent. Native to the Himalayas, the sweet, fragrant blossoms of white ginger are a favorite choice for leis in Hawaii. Called Awapuhi there, the blossoms are gathered in the evening just as they begin to open. Though the flowers are widely cultivated, they still grow wild near streams and on mountain slopes throughout the Hawaiian Islands and in other tropic regions of the world.
Flower essences made from white ginger help to address emotional congestion and the type of depression that invokes feelings of deep hopelessness. It can also be useful as an aid in developing autonomy, and for those who need to increase their stamina and energy in order to stand up for what they most desire. The word ginger is thought to derive from Sanskrit, where it symbolized love and monetary success. Some believe that placing ginger in your purse may result in abundance and prosperity.
In many areas of Southeast Asia, white ginger is a popular remedy, used to treat colds, headaches, arthritis, muscular aches, and minor injuries. The lovely white ginger flower belongs to the same botanical family as the spice-producing ginger root (Zingiber officinalis), which also evolved in the southeast areas of Asia. Spice ginger produces clusters of white and pink flower buds that bloom into yellow flowers. Cultivated throughout most of Europe by the 10th Century, both Greek and Roman cultures were familiar with it, and Greek mathematician and philosopher Pythagoras advocated the use of ginger as a remedy for snake bites thousands of years ago. In some Asian countries, presenting the object of your desire with a bouquet of ginger and roses is said to encourage romantic love. Considered to be the fragrance of royalty in some cultures, stories also tell that ginger flourished in the Garden of Eden.
Products: Desert Essence Organic Green Apple & Ginger Shampoo (desertessence.com).
Asiana Spa Royal Ginger Rice Honey Body Scrub, and Creamy Vanilla Ginger Blend Body Butter (asianaspa.com).
Nature's Gate Organics Fruit Blend Ultra-Hydrating Body Lotion with Grapefruit & Wild Ginger (natures-gate.com).
Primavera Aromatherapy Natural White Ginger Hair Conditioner (primavera.co.uk).
