Ginger oil is obtained by steam-distillation of rhizomes of Zingiber officinale. It has a strong aroma. Its taste is very strong and spicy. It is pale yellow, viscid oil. The physico-chemical characteristics of oil depends on variety, age, period of storage and method of extraction.
Ginger oil is used in various ways. It is used as flavourant in soft drinks like ginger ale, liquors, bakery product, pickles, sauces and preserves. It is also used for medicinal purpose and in perfumery.
Ginger oil is full of medicinal properties and useful in treating various digestive problems, motion sickness, sore throat, cramps etc. It has carminative, stimulant, spicy and warming activities.
Ginger oil is taken internally for treating diarrhoea, abdominal pain, indigestion, respiratory infections, cough, sore throat, tonsillitis and low appetite. Since ginger oil is very concentrated so only 1-2 drops are taken internally for medicinal properties. The inhalation of this essential oil helps to improve memory and cure headaches/migraine.
Ginger oil is also used in externally in form of compresses on painful joints, arthritis, rheumatism and similar condition of joint. Ginger oil or any other essential oil is highly concentrated, so it is advisable to use them internally or externally with care.