What Does Ginger Do? Ginger (Zingiber officinale) has been used in Asian cuisine for thousands of years. When used as a food, ginger root provides antioxidant protection. Most ginger is heat processed using high-heat methods. However, Jarrow Formulas Ginger is naturally-dried and not subjected to any additional heat. This process ensures the presence of the active compounds that are beneficial to the gastrointestinal tract.