Power Plant of the Month – September
🌱 Plant Power Pick: Ginger
When the weather cools down and we start reaching for comfort foods, there’s one plant that really shines: ginger. Zingy, warming, and packed with goodness, ginger has been used for centuries in kitchens and medicine cabinets around the world.
But here’s the best bit — it’s not only good for us, it can also be a safe and beneficial addition for our dogs (in the right amounts). Let’s explore why this spicy little root deserves a place in your life.
🍵 Why Ginger is Good for Humans
Ginger isn’t just a flavour booster — it’s a powerhouse of natural compounds like gingerol and shogaol that have been well studied for their health benefits.
- Soothes nausea – From travel sickness to morning sickness, ginger has been shown time and time again to calm queasy tummies.
- Aids digestion – It helps food move through your stomach more smoothly, which means less bloating and discomfort after meals.
- Eases inflammation – Ginger’s natural anti-inflammatory properties make it helpful for achy joints, sore muscles, or chronic conditions like arthritis.
- Supports blood sugar balance – Early studies suggest ginger may help steady blood sugar levels and support metabolic health.
- Relieves period pain – Research even shows ginger can help reduce menstrual cramps in some people.
In short: ginger is one of those rare “old-fashioned remedies” that modern science actually agrees with.
🐾 Ginger for Dogs
Now for the exciting part — dogs can benefit too! While not every human food is safe for our four-legged friends, ginger is one of the exceptions when used carefully.
- Calms upset tummies – A little ginger can help dogs who get car sick or have mild indigestion.
- Joint support – Its anti-inflammatory effects may help older dogs with stiffness or arthritis feel more comfortable.
- Antioxidant boost – Like us, dogs benefit from antioxidants that fight off free radicals and support healthy ageing.
👉 The golden rule: a little goes a long way. Dogs only need a tiny pinch of grated fresh ginger or a small sprinkle of powder. Too much can cause tummy upset, and it’s best avoided for dogs who are pregnant, have bleeding disorders, or are due for surgery.
⚠️ Things to Keep in Mind
- For humans: Ginger is very safe in everyday amounts, but in large doses it may cause heartburn or interact with certain medications (like blood thinners).
- For dogs: Keep portions tiny, stick to fresh or plain powdered ginger, and never give them sugary or pickled versions. Always check with your vet if you’re unsure.
🌟 Simple Ways to Use Ginger
- For you: Add fresh ginger to tea, smoothies, stir-fries, or baking for a warming kick.
- For your dog: Try a dog-friendly ginger biscuit, or add the tiniest grating of fresh ginger to food if they’re prone to travel sickness.
(At our bakery, we make safe, dog-friendly gingerbread men — a fun way for pups to join in without any of the nasties you’d find in regular biscuits!)
✨ The Takeaway
Ginger is one of nature’s true multitaskers. It’s delicious, comforting, and supports everything from digestion to joint health — for humans and dogs alike.
So next time you’re brewing up a cosy cup of ginger tea, why not share the moment with your pup by treating them to a dog-safe gingerbread man? After all, wellness is better when it’s shared.
