and GREAT ANSWER too! Thanks. I had no idea about that either.
I know ginger was found in the tombs of the pharoahs and considered one of the sacred medicines in many cultures including India and China where it is used extensively. It's cousin is Turmeric which I think is in the same rhizome family.
Garlic is also placed in high esteem in these cultures. Lately I have gotten into the habit of taking whole garlic with my meals. By selecting the smaller cloves they can be swallowed whole which prevents the odor from being noticed.