As an extracting solvent, water or a hydrous alcohol is usable. Examples of the alcohol include ethanol, meth
anol, 1 ,3-butylene glycol and glycerin, of which ethanol and 1 ,3-butylene glycol are particularly preferred. The hydrous alcohol preferably has an alcohol concentration not greater than 70% (v/v). When the hydrous alcohol has an alcohol concentration exceeding 70%, a large amount of gingerols is mixed therein, which presumably disturbs smooth removal of gingerols.