Ginger, Turmeric, Neem Declared "Hazardous" in Thailand After Chemical Companies Try to Protect Pesticide Profits

Ginger, Turmeric, Neem Declared "Hazardous" in Thailand After Chemical Companies Try to Protect Pesticide Profits

The government of Thailand has classified 13 plants - traditionally used as herbal medicines and natural pesticides - as "hazardous substances," causing outrage among farmers and advocates of traditional medicine.

The plants - including ginger, turmeric, neem and chili - have been classified by the Industry Ministry as "hazardous substances type 1," requiring all manufacturers, growers, importers or exporters of any products made from the plants to follow strict safety and quality control rules or face up to six months in jail and a 50,000 baht ($1,400) fine.

Farmers' groups have objected to the new rules as an unfair burden on organic farmers, who will now have to pay more for the registration, packaging and testing of non-synthetic pesticides. They have also objected that the list was developed without any consultation of farmers who would be affected.

"The government keeps promoting organic farming and reduction of chemical use," said Tussanee Verakan, coordinator of the Alternative Agriculture Network. "Why did they put such heavy restrictions on organic substances which are the heart of organic farming?"

Witoon Lianchamroon of the organic farming nonprofit Biothai said he suspects that the move is intended to benefit chemical companies by putting obstacles in the path of those who would otherwise prefer natural alternatives. Because natural pesticides are less toxic and substantially cheaper than imported chemical pesticides, recent years have seen large numbers of Thai farmers abandoning chemical products.

"Instead of tightening controls on these farmer-friendly herbal plants, the committee should crack down on multinational companies who exploit Thai farmers by luring them into buying their highly toxic and costly products," Witoon said.

Alternative medicine practitioners have also reacted angrily to the decision. According to Prapot Paetrakas, deputy director-general of the Department for Development of Thai Traditional and Alternative Medicine, all 13 newly regulated plants are central to the practice of traditional Thai medicine.

Sources for this story include: www.bangkokpost.com.

Ginger Root

Ginger Root
Ginger Root is known as the universal medicine in Ayurveda.

Ginger aids digestion and, and is one of the best herbs for nausea. It relieves spasms and menstrual cramps.

Ginger helps to regulate blood sugar both by stimulating pancreas cells and by lowering lipids (cholesterol, triglycerides) in the blood. Ginger is both an anti-inflammatory and an antioxidant, which boosts the immune system and naturally increases the body's energy levels.


Historically, ginger was one of the most respected herbs for joint health, especially for aging joints. Ginger has relatively high calcium and iron content.

Ginger increases peripheral circulation, so is used clinically for cold hands and feet. Being diaphoretic, it treats some symptoms by promoting sweating.

How to Take Ginger
Ginger should not be used by children under 2 years of age. For adults, ginger intake should not exceed 2 to 4 grams per day (this includes the ginger obtained through diet such as from ginger ale, ginger snaps, and ginger bread).

For nausea, gas, or indigestion: 2 to 4 grams of fresh root daily (0.25 to 1.0 g of powdered root) or 1.5 to 3.0 mL (30 to 90 drops) tincture daily. To prevent vomiting, take 1 gram of powdered ginger (1/2 teaspoon) or its equivalent every four hours as needed, or 2 ginger capsules (1 gram) three times daily. You may also chew a 1/4 ounce piece of fresh ginger.
To relieve arthritis pain: Take fresh ginger juice, extract, or tea, 2 to 4 grams daily; rub ginger oil into painful joint; or place fresh root in a warm poultice or compress and apply to painful areas.
For cold and flu symptoms, sore throat, headache and menstrual cramps: Steep 2 tablespoons of freshly shredded ginger in boiled water, two to three times daily, or place a drop of ginger oil or a few slices of fresh rhizome in steaming water and inhale.
Side Effects
The American Herbal Products Association (AHPA) gives fresh ginger root a class 1 safety rating, indicating that it is a safe herb with a wide dosage range. Side effects associated with ginger are rare, but if taken in excessive doses the herb may cause mild heartburn. Note: People with gallstones should consult a physician before taking ginger.

Ginger Root Supplements
Ginger Root -- Useful digestive aid.
Ginger 6:1 Concentrate -- Jarrow FORMULAS® Freeze Dried Ginger is not subjected to any heat, which ensures the presence of the active compounds that are beneficial to the gastrointestinal tract.
Ginger Liquid -- Doctor Approved. Best known for its ability to relieve nausea due to morning sickness or motion sickness. Organic, convenient liquid form aids in digestion.
Daily Ginger -- Daily Ginger Vcaps integrate fresh juice and important ginger extracts into the digestive system and provide instant and concentrated relief.
Garlic Plus Ginger -- This product contains the harmonious combination of garlic and freeze dried ginger.
Ginger Honey Tonic -- Makes 24 cups tea/ginger ale (herbal). Enhances cell protective activity. Tastes great! Has instant results!
Ginger Wonder Syrup Original -- Makes 24-48 cups of delicious tea/herbal ginger ale. Contains 180 times the protein digesting power of papaya. Stimulates fat digesting bile!

Yellow ginger, or turmeric is also real good.


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