Ginger is just one of those spices that you can distinguish easily and almost
instantaneously alters the composition of your dishes. It has a certain aroma and pungency
to it that makes it delectable no matter which way you use it.

There are many types of ginger in India, but none comes close to the might of the Ing Makhir
ginger of Meghalaya.Sying Makhir” or “Ing Makhir” as it is locally known by the people of
Meghalaya is an indigenous ginger variety native to the hilly terrains of Meghalaya. It is
scientifically known as Zingiber rubens. This ginger is known to be the best ginger variety in
India.

The name Ing Makhir comes from the Khasi words “Sying” which means ‘ginger’ and
“Makhir” which means ‘small’. The Pnar people from the Jaintia Hills call it “Ing Traw”
which, again, translates to small ginger.

And it’s true actually. Ing Makhir ginger is small, sleek, and not big and bulky at all
compared to regular ginger varieties. This particular feature makes it stand out from
ordinary ginger. This particular ginger has very thin skin and is known to be very fibrous in
nature making it perfect for powdering.

Ing Makhir ginger can be found growing in most parts of Meghalaya, but it is abundantly
found in villages along the Assam-Meghalaya border, villages such as Khatkasla and
Sahsniang, Jaintia Hills district of Meghalaya.

What makes Ing Makhir ginger special?

What makes Ing Makhir ginger special has to do with its accentuated chemical properties,
more specifically the gingerol content. Gingerol is the chemical component present in
ginger which is responsible for its medicinal properties such as antioxidant and antiinflammatory. Ing Makhir ginger is known to possess a higher concentration of gingerol
which renders it quite beneficial in terms of health benefits.

What are the health benefits of Ing Makhir ginger?