Ginger root has been used for medical purposes for centuries. Ginger is an important component in all Indian curries since it possesses anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory qualities. Ginger tea can help with a range of issues, from motion sickness to cancer prevention.
Ginger belongs to a Zingiberaceae plant family that includes cardamom and turmeric. The presence of ketones, particularly gingerols, which appear to be the principal component of ginger examined in much health-related scientific research, contributes to its pungent scent. The rhizome, or horizontal stem from which the roots grow, is ginger's most commonly consumed part. Ginger's current name stems from the Middle English word gingivere, which means "to grow ginger."
Ginger finds its utility as fresh, dried, powdered, as oil or juice. Hence you can consume ginger in any of the appealing forms.
Here are the 10 vital health benefits of ginger that may compel you to use it in your daily food routines.
10 Promising Health Benefits of Ginger
Many research studies reveal the pivotal role of ginger in curing nausea and vomiting, thereby portraying the multi-faceted remedial properties associated with many of its healing effects listed below:
Reduces Arthritis, headaches and menstrual cramps
Ginger helps with Arthritis, headaches, and menstrual cramps by reducing pain and inflammation. Several chemical compounds that increase joint inflammation, such as leukotrienes, can be inhibited by ginger. It has a high safety profile and has the potential to reduce pain and disability in a fairly useful way. Ginger also includes salicylates, which your body converts to salicylic acid. Salicylic acid inhibits the production of some prostaglandins in your nerves, thereby reducing pain and suffering. It has a warming effect on our body and stimulates circulation.
Prevents common cold
Ginger prevents rhinovirus from causing the common cold. It can also aid in the relief of cold symptoms.
- Avoid or relieve a sore throat.
- Reduce congestion and inflammation.
Anti-bacterial properties of Ginger
Ginger exhibits higher anti-bacterial properties against Staphylococcus aureus and Streptococcus pyogenes. S. pyogenes (causing ‘Strep Throat’).
Anti-viral properties of Ginger
Ginger displays anti-viral properties against respiratory viruses. However, there is no proper evidence that ginger can protect against SARS-CoV-2, the virus causing COVID-19.
Reduces Pharyngitis
The researchers suggest that ginger could reduce pharyngitis - an inflammation at the back of the throat.
Ginger’s antioxidant effect
Ginger has the highest antioxidant effect and can help prevent cell damage from inflammation.
Inhinbits Diarrhoea
It inhibits germs that cause Diarrhoea, such as Salmonella, as well as protozoa like Trichomonas.
Role in digestive tract
It relieves gas and unpleasant spasms in the digestive tract. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medicines, such as aspirin and ibuprofen, can induce stomach ulcers, prevented by ginger.
Typical weight loss ingredient
Medical literature reveals that ginger can work along with a healthy diet and exercise to help you reach a healthy weight. Ginger is a typical ingredient for a weight loss regime.
Side effects of Ginger
Ginger is a herbal medicative that is generally well accepted and has just minor adverse effects. Stomach upset and oral irritation are the most commonly reported adverse effects. If you take anticoagulants, you should consume ginger at advised levels because it can induce bleeding.
Key Takeaways
Ginger root can stay fresh in the refrigerator for a few weeks. Store it in a paper bag or airtight glass container, and place it in the crisper. Store ginger root in the frozen condition and grate out a small chunk each time you use it in a dish to keep it useable for longer.
The same caution is required while storing dried ginger. Make it a habit to regularly include ginger-rich items in your diet to get the most significant health advantages. Ensure to avoid high doses, which causes side effects like nausea and gastric reflux. Hence it is essential to talk to your health practitioner before you start the intake of ginger into your diet.