Ginger, the rhizome of Zingiber officinale Roscoe, is commonly used as a spice, dietary supplement and medicine. Ginger is found to be effective in antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial activities. Currently, two varieties of ginger rhizomes, Guangdong-ginger and Chu-ginger, are available in Taiwan and found to be comparable in carbohydrate, fat and fibre contents. Oxalic and tartaric acids were two major acids. Gingerols, shogaol and curcumin were their active components. The essential oils of two gingers exhibited similar volatile profiles and 60–65 compounds were identified. Ethanolic extracts were more effective than aqueous extracts in Trolox equivalent antioxidant capacity and Ferric reducing ability of plasma whereas aqueous extracts were more effective in scavenging and chelating abilities. However, both extracts were effective in antioxidant properties assayed. Based on the results obtained, two ginger rhizomes could be used as a flavouring agent and an antioxidant.