Ginger, whose scientific name is Zingiber officinale, is a flowering plant in the Zingiberaceae family. For thousands of years, ginger's fragrant, spicy rhizome (underground stem) has been widely used as both a flavorful culinary spice and beneficial herbal medicine. Native to the tropical rainforests of the Indian subcontinent, ginger is a key ingredient in many cuisines around the world. Interestingly, turmeric and cardamom also belong to the Zingiberaceae family. Ginger has long been valued in Chinese medicine and home remedies for stimulating hair growth by nourishing the scalp. Rich in minerals and natural oils, ginger can condition hair and leave the scalp feeling invigorated. In addition to its anti-aging properties, ginger contains potent antiseptic and cleansing compounds that minimize acne by killing bacteria on and beneath the skin's surface.