Ginger is a natural herb with multiple medicinal properties and health benefits. Our elders have often recommended having a cup of ginger tea to get rid of cold, cough, headache, and flu. Well, they are right ginger is a healing food which has analgesic, sedative, antipyretic and antibacterial effects on our body.
It is a flowering plant whose rhizome, ginger root is widely used as a spice and as folk medicine. It has gingerol which has powerful medicinal properties. It is very popular in the Indian kitchen, added in different dishes – dry or fresh.
Ways to include Ginger in your diet:
- Ginger lemonade – a mixture of water, lemon, grated ginger and a bit of a sugar
- Ginger is a spice which can be added to various dishes to spice them up
- Ginger can be added to coffee and tea, not only it is calm and comforting but may also help to calm an upset stomach
- Biscuits and chapati can be eaten with ginger jam
8 Amazing benefits of ginger
1. Cures stomach related problems:
Studies have shown that ginger has positive effects on curing intestinal and digestive problems. Ginger has enzymes which
breaks down the food without causing discomfort. It protects and heals the guts by regulating the proper movement of food through the intestinal tract and prevents bloating and cramps.
It is a great digestive tonic, which improves gastric motility by alleviating constipation, vomiting, acidity, and protects gastric lining against acidity.
2. Remedy for flu and cold
Ginger is a traditional home remedy to treat cold, cough, flu, and sore throats. It has antibacterial qualities that help to reduce pain and inflammation. This is why it is known as a herbal natural medicine.
Ginger appears to stop the reproduction of the virus in the throat. Researchers suggest that it reduces pharyngitis, which is the inflammation at the back of the throat. Its antioxidant properties help to repair cell damage.
3. Alleviate nausea
Ginger is often marketed as a natural way to reduce nausea. This spice is effectively used as anti-nausea medication. It is best supported to reduce vomiting. It has a component called 6-gingerol which is the secret behind its nausea relieving effects.
4. Improves immunity
Ginger is known to boost the immune system of a person due to the presence of anti-inflammatory and antioxidants elements. It has gingerol, a component that makes it an immunity booster. It keeps several ailments at bay and fights against infection and viruses, thus keeping the immune system strong. It energizes the body and hence, removes the feeling of lethargy.
5. Lowers cholesterol
Studies and researches have shown that ginger reduces LDL cholesterol level and boost your HDL cholesterol. Patients with higher cholesterol levels are often recommended with ginger supplements and powder. It is concluded in a study that use of raw ginger 5 grams daily for 3 months reduced LDL cholesterol significantly.
6. Reduces menstruation pain
Ginger is a warming spice just like curcumin and cayenne. It is known for its anti-inflammatory effects which provide relief from menstruation pain. It’s an herbal remedy for pain relief. During menstruation, hot ginger tea can be very soothing. Also, potent fresh grated ginger can be added to hot or cold beverages and be used in salad dressing.
7. It can reduce the risk of diabetes
Studies have shown that few components in ginger are linked with the improvement in insulin and metabolism. Flavoring smoothies, veggies, and soups with both fresh and dried ginger are good for people with diabetes. The chemicals in it breakdowns the sugar molecules at a faster rate.
8. Lowers the risk of cancer
Many spices like ginger reduce the cellular activity that causes DNA changes, cell death, and proliferation of cancer cells. Ginger has cell-protecting properties, which protects from long term risk of certain cancer.
The Bottom Line:
With no doubt, it can be concluded that ginger is a magical herb. It’s a plant-based food that benefits the overall health of the person. It helps in digestion of food, regulates the heart, fights cold and foul mouth odor. It prevents nausea, dizziness, and morning sickness. It is a drug that has no side effects. It’s a part of treatment in many cultures. It has been widely used in different culinary cuisines and numerous therapeutic qualities.
