Ginger, a root of the tuberous perennial, flourishes in the tropical atmosphere. It was one of the first Oriental spices to make its way westward from southern Asia.

For centuries, it was a rich man's spice, rivaling with black pepper. Its use in gingerbread has been discovered in Greece almost five thousand years ago.

Ginger is available in whole, crushed or ground form. It is used in food in various ways. It is mixed in pickles, added to tea, syrups, baked dishes and ginger ale. It is rubbed lightly on the meats, fowl and fish.