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, Guangdongginger
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 60e65 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.