New US Patent for McGhie Variegated Ginger: A Breakthrough for Jamaican Agriculture
We are excited to announce the recent US patent approval for McGhie Variegated Cinnamon Ginger (McGhieVCG), a new variant of the original McGhie Jamaican Cinnamon Ginger (McGhieJCG). This new plant, discovered by Jamaican horticulturist Errol McGhie, exhibits unique variegated leaves with a yellow-green hue and maintains the distinctive cinnamon-like aroma that made its predecessor so special.The McGhieVCG variant was asexually reproduced from the McGhieJCG plant through stem cuttings in the fields of Bog Walk, Jamaica. This new variety boasts remarkable growth characteristics, disease resistance, and stable propagation across generations. Over a period of 18 months, the plants exhibited vigorous growth, thriving in a range of environmental conditions from partial shade to full sunlight. McGhieVCG is not only aesthetically striking, with its beautiful leaf variegation, but it also holds promise for agriculture and the wellness industry. The patent approval in the United States further solidifies the global recognition of Jamaican innovation in agriculture, following the groundbreaking success of McGhieJCG, which was also the first Jamaican plant to be patented in the US in over 50 years.As the McGhie family of ginger plants continues to grow, so does the potential for Jamaica’s biotechnology exports, further establishing the country as a leader in natural, high-value crops. This new variety is set to become a significant player in both local and international markets, with ongoing research to explore its potential medicinal properties.The success of McGhieVCG not only highlights the rich biodiversity of Jamaica but also demonstrates the power of innovation in transforming traditional plants into globally recognized, commercially viable products.For more information on the patent visit https://patents.google.com/patent/USPP34669P2/en. by Aisha Bailey, PhDBiochemist/ZoologistInnovation Consultant (Natural Health Products)
The Unique Discovery of McGhie Jamaican Cinnamon Ginger
The world of botanical discoveries is vast, but every now and then, something truly extraordinary emerges from the soil—something that captures both the imagination and the attention of scientists. Such is the case with McGhie Jamaican Cinnamon Ginger (McGhie JCG). A mutant strain of Alpinia officinarum, this new addition to the Zingiberaceae family of plants, is known for its medicinal properties and distinctive cinnamon aroma. In the fertile lands of Bog Walk, Jamaica, renowned horticulturist Mr. Errol McGhie stumbled upon what seemed to be a mutant variety growing from a mat of its parent plant. At first glance, McGhie noticed something peculiar about this plant. Its aroma had a cinnamon-like aroma, setting it apart from the typical local ginger he was used to. His keen observation led to the beginning of a journey that would eventually see McGhie JCG patented across multiple countries, including the United States, Canada, and 27 countries in Europe. What sets McGhie JCG apart is not just its distinct aroma and flavor but its nutritional and phytochemical profile, which rivals that of many plants within its family. Phytochemical analyses conducted by leading research institutions have revealed the presence of significant quantities of amino acids, carbohydrates, minerals, vitamins and polyphenols, making McGhie JCG a powerhouse of wellness in both its raw and processed forms. Beyond its nutritional profile, McGhie JCG has also shown immense potential in the wellness and nutraceutical industries. Phytochemical analysis of it’s extracts have demonstrated antioxidant, anticancer, and anti-inflammatory properties, due to the presence of flavonoids and phenols. This has caught the attention of those seeking natural health solutions, with many individuals who have consumed McGhie JCG in tea and capsule form reporting positive outcomes for various health conditions. The discovery and subsequent scientific validation of McGhie JCG represent a monumental leap for Jamaican agriculture and botanical sciences. It is the first plant from Jamaica to be patented in the U.S. in 50 years, and its potential seems limitless as both a high-end tea and a potent nutraceutical. As studies continue, the world is eager to see how this Jamaican treasure will make waves in the wellness industry, bringing the island’s rich biodiversity to the global stage. by Aisha Bailey, PhD Biochemist/Zoologist Innovation Consultant (Natural Health Products)