i use the organic powder. If i find a fresh root i'm going to grow it! i've tried the cayenne the way Schultz and christopher recommend, and for me, it just isn't the best, although I like it off and on. Ginger is great for me, however, and the turmeric is fantastic.
all the best!
chiron
try it in the golden milk form. it's an old Ayurvedic thing. Delicious. my next golden milk (hot) i am going to blend soaked pumpkin seeds into coconut milk.