When someone says the word “herb”, ginger may be the first thing that comes to mind. But why is it important to know the health benefits of ginger? Let’s find out!
Ginger is not only one of the tastiest but also one of the healthiest spices found all over the world. It belongs to the Zingiberaceae family, which also includes cardamom, galangal and turmeric, and is closely related to galangal.
The first documented use of it dates back to 500 BC. It is a plant native to Southeast Asia, but the spices commonly used in cooking come from the root of the ginger plant.
The part of the plant that is typically used for culinary purposes is the rhizome, the underground part of the stem. It is most commonly referred to as ginger root or simply ginger.
You can use it in its many forms: fresh, dried, powdered, ground, oil, juice, etc. It’s an ingredient that can be found in a wide variety of dishes. You can find it in various cosmetics and processed foods.
As well as being a popular spice, it has a long history of use as a complementary medicine. We’ve put together a list of many ginger health benefits to help you start incorporating this spice into your diet right away.
Check Out The Health Benefits of Ginger and Start Adding It To Your Diet.
1. Effective for several types of nausea, especially early morning sickness
It seems to help a lot when you’re feeling sick. It has the potential to reduce post-operative nausea and vomiting. The nausea and vomiting caused by chemotherapy can also be relieved by taking it . However, it may be most effective for nausea associated with pregnancy, such as morning sickness.
Ginger is generally safe, but pregnant women should talk to their doctor before taking large doses. Women in labour or who have recently had a miscarriage should avoid it. You should also not use it if you have a history of abnormal blood clotting or vaginal bleeding.
2. Helps treat persistent indigestion
Repeated episodes of upper abdominal pain and discomfort are typical symptoms of chronic indigestion. Indigestion is thought to be largely caused by a stomach that doesn’t empty quickly enough. Ginger, it turns out, has the interesting side effect of making the stomach empty faster.
3. Strengthen the body’s defences.
The antibacterial and antifungal properties of gingerol, a bioactive component of raw ginger, help to boost the immune system. Moreover, it is rich in antioxidants and has anti-inflammatory properties.
The combination of these properties has many uses. Ginger’s antiviral, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties make it useful for treating cold and flu symptoms.
4. Significantly reduces menstrual pain.
Regular use of it can reduce the discomfort associated with menstruation. Taking ginger during the first three days of your monthly cycle can help relieve pain and, due to its anti-inflammatory properties, can also reduce the bloating often associated with premenstrual syndrome (PMS).
5. Relieves arthritic pain
As an anti-inflammatory, it helps to reduce swelling. It has the potential to help manage the symptoms of osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. Taking it or applying a ginger compress or patch can help reduce discomfort and oedema.
6. Reducing the level of cholesterol
It has been suggested that daily consumption of it may help reduce levels of ‘bad’ or LDL cholesterol. A 2018 study of 60 people with hyperlipidaemia found that after 3 months, the LDL (bad) cholesterol levels of those who were given 5 grams of ginger powder daily fell by 17.4 percent.
7. Has a cancer-preventing component.
Many types of cancer have been studied with ginger as a possible alternative treatment. Gingerol, which is abundant in raw ginger, is responsible for the plant’s anti-cancer effects. The type of gingerol called [6]-gingerol is thought to be particularly potent.
8. Brings Down Blood Sugar Levels
People with type 2 diabetes may benefit from it’s ability to lower blood sugar and reduce several risk factors for cardiovascular disease.
New evidence from a small study suggests that it may improve insulin sensitivity. More research is needed to find out whether or not ginger is able to lower the level of sugar in the blood.
9. Defends against toxins and pathogens
The active compounds in it have antibacterial properties. It has the potential to reduce the growth of disease-causing microorganisms and is an alternative to antibiotics for the treatment of certain bacterial infections.
You can boost your immune system with the help of chemical compounds found in fresh ginger. They are particularly effective against E.coli and Shigella, and may help protect against respiratory syncytial virus.
10. Boosts cognitive function
Over time, chronic inflammation can have a negative impact on brain function. This can lead to problems with cognition, emotional well-being or even Alzheimer’s disease.
The powerful antioxidants in it help to reduce inflammation and protect the brain from damage caused by free radicals. It increases the concentration and response time of neurotransmitters in the brain, which in turn improves memory.
Moreover, the dopamine and serotonin that it stimulates are effective against mental health issues including despair and anxiety.
An easy way to improve your health is to include it in your daily diet. With a little creativity, you can easily incorporate it into your diet. From brewing it into tea to adding it to your food, ginger is one of the most versatile spices.
Always check with your doctor before making any major changes to your diet, including adding ginger. It’s important to be aware of the potential for drug interactions and other side effects when using certain supplements.
Disclaimer: This is for informational purposes only.
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Source: Healthline
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