Ginger is a Popular Spice Worldwide with its Many Health Benefits
Fresh ginger root is always easy to source and is a popular and well loved addition to our diets. But it also comes with a long list of health benefits because of its antioxidants, anti-inflammatory properties and therapeutic compounds.
Ginger (official name Zingiber officinale) is a flowering plant with an underground stem that forms the almost magical ginger root. It is closely related both to turmeric and cardamom and is very popular worldwide. Whether it is used to spice up meals or as a medicine, the demand for ginger all over the world has been consistent throughout history.
More about all those health benefits
1. Ginger root will help to alleviate nausea and morning sickness. In addition, it can provide a remedy for sea sickness and even that nausea that can be brought on by chemotherapy.
2. Ginger root can help to fight fungal infections. These infections include nail fungus, jock itch and athlete's foot as well as yeast infections.
3. Ginger root can help protect against stomach ulcers. Several studies have found that ginger could help prevent the formation of stomach ulcers. Those painful sores form in the lining of the stomach, leading to uncomfortable symptoms such as indigestion, fatigue, heartburn and abdominal discomfort.
4. Ginger root can help to relieve menstrual pain and symptoms such as period cramps and headaches. A natural remedy is always advisable in place of over-the-counter medications.
5. Ginger root can help to support digestive health. This is one of its most powerful benefits, preventing various digestive problems such as pain, heartburn, bloating and discomfort.
6. Ginger root can help regulate blood sugar while fighting obesity. This is because research has shown that ginger helps to promote normal blood sugar which can then reduce those negative symptoms such as frequent urination, headaches and migraines as well as feeling very thirsty.
7. Ginger root can provide relief for joint and muscle pain as well as arthritis-induced joint pain as it helps to reduce inflammation.
8. Ginger root can help to lower cholesterol levels if they are too high. Studies have found that ginger has the ability to lower cholesterol levels and triglycerides naturally, helping to reduce the risk of heart problems.
9. Ginger root can help to support brain function while helping to protect against brain aging and cognitive decline and ultimately neurodegenerative conditions such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's.
10. Ginger root has been found to help fight bacterial Infections such as urinary tract infections, pneumonia and bronchitis.
How to use ginger root
When you are buying fresh ginger, the roots should have thin and shiny skin with a sharp and peppery smell. That skin should be easily scraped with the fingernail.
There are lots of different ways to include ginger in your diet. It can be eaten fresh or ground. It can be included in a vegetable juice or smoothie or grated and added to various dishes but is often added to boiling water, perhaps with a spoonful of honey, as a beverage.
If you want a more speedy and effective way to access those many benefits, ginger is available in tablets or capsules. A typical daily dose would be 1500 milligrams.
Written by Jane Chitty
Jane writes for Healing Natural Oils, a producer and retailer of high-quality, all-natural treatments for a variety of conditions as well as a range of beauty products. Apart from writing about those various conditions, she also covers general health, environmental and other subjects of interest. She has lived in Kenya as well as Cape Town, South Africa and spent time in San Diego, USA. She now lives in Somerset, England with regular visits from her far-flung children and grandchildren. She is a keen gardener and enjoys growing fresh fruit and vegetables with her husband on their joint allotment. As a result, there is something available to use in the kitchen virtually all year round. Her regular posts can be found on our blog.