Ginger (Zingiber officinale)

Ginger (Zingiber officinale) has been used as a spice and medicine for thousands of years. In Ayurveda, ginger is used to balance a kapha dosha. Around the world, ginger is one of the most popular healthy foods and dietary supplements, and is supported by some impressive scientific research on its potential for digestive and joint health.

Verdure Sciences produces standardized extracts from ginger root. In this process, the most beneficial compounds such as gingerols are concentrated, while the extract itself retains the rich ginger aroma and natural spectrum of ginger compounds.

While it may seem simple, Verdure Sciences uses an extensive Quality System to create this product. This system of testing and documentation verifies the source, identity, purity, and potency of our ginger extracts.

Each incoming lot of ginger powder is fully documented for traceability. The material is macroscopically inspected for appearance, color, texture, taste and smell, and then analysed under a microscope. The microscopic analysis must match voucher specimens authenticated by academic botanists at independent university laboratories.

The ginger sample is then subjected to a second layer of identity testing using thin layer chromatography (TLC). This produces a 'chemical fingerprint' that is characteristic to the species and plant part. After processing, the finished extract is again subjected to TLC to confirm that it has retained the natural-spectrum identity of the raw plant material.

Dozens of additional tests are performed on each lot of finished extract, to confirm the purity, potency, and uniformity of the extract. This data is added to an historical record on the extract, which helps us track and control the consistency of the product over the course of time.

Since ginger is of course a 100% natural product, this complex system of controls is necessary to ensure our customers receive the highest quality ingredients available.