Ginger is one of those things that comes in handy when you don’t have anything else. It has a very versatile flavor and can be used in almost every type of cuisine. However, it also has other benefits as well. It’s not just as a spice that ginger benefits us. Its medicinal properties make it an important part of our diet. But what exactly are the benefits of ginger?
And what are its health benefits? Keep reading to find out everything you need to know about this pungent root!
What is Ginger?
Ginger is a tropical plant with a symbol, a rhizome, like a bulb or turmeric. The part of the plant that we use is the root, which is actually not a root at all, but rather a modified rhizome. The root is then harvested and dried for later use. Ginger is mainly used as a flavoring agent in food, due to its spicy and warm fragrance. It’s also used in Ayurvedic medicine for its health benefits.
Doctors have found that ginger has many uses when it comes to treating illnesses. Ginger is native to South Asia and Southeast Asia.
Nutrition Facts of Ginger
Ginger is a root that often gets overlooked as a source of nutrition. It is high in vitamins and minerals, as well as being rich in health-promoting antioxidants. It is also a good source of fibre. Ginger is a good source of manganese and copper, two trace minerals that help support the health of the nervous system.
Ginger is rich in Vitamin B6, a vitamin that is essential for the metabolism of amino acids and normal metabolism of cholesterol. It is also rich in Vitamin C and has a good source of iron. Ginger also contains some minerals like potassium, zinc and magnesium that can help lower blood pressure. Ginger is also rich in antioxidants, which help fight off free radicals that can lead to cancer. It is also a good source of iron, which is great for maintaining healthy blood.
Why is ginger good for you?
Ginger is a powerful root that is loaded with health benefits. It is believed to have medicinal properties dating back to Ancient China, where it was used as an herb in cooking, as an anti-inflammatory, and as a digestive aid. It has since been used in Ayurvedic medicine and Traditional Chinese Medicine. Ginger’s health benefits can be attributed to its unique chemical composition, which includes essential oils, alkaloids, and shogaol, among others.
Ginger contains compounds that are potent antioxidants. These help prevent damage to the body caused by free radicals. Ginger is also a natural anti-inflammatory. It can be used to treat joint pain, muscle pain, and headaches caused by inflammation. Ginger has also been found to be effective in treating nausea and vomiting. It is a common ingredient in teas and other beverages that are used to treat motion sickness, morning sickness, and other forms of nausea. Ginger has also been shown to relieve the symptoms of morning sickness.
Health Benefits of Ginger
- Anti-inflammatory: Ginger is an anti-inflammatory that can be used for everything from joint pain to irritable bowel syndrome.
- Digestive Aid: Ginger has been used to treat everything from nausea to stomach cramps.
- Natural Anti-nausea: Ginger is one of the most effective natural remedies for nausea, whether caused by motion sickness or morning sickness, as well as a number of other conditions.
- Mood Booster: Ginger has been shown to be effective in treating depression, which is often caused by low serotonin levels in the brain.
- Circulation Booster: Ginger has been shown to increase blood flow, which is important for healthy skin, brain function, and more.
- Cancer Fighter: Ginger has been shown to have properties that can prevent and fight cancer.
- Low Blood Pressure: Ginger has been shown to have properties that help lower blood pressure.
Side Effects of Ginger
Ginger does have some side effects. Since it is an irritant, it can cause inflammation in the gastrointestinal system, which can lead to gas and poor digestion. Ginger can also cause an allergic reaction in people that are sensitive to it. This most commonly manifests as a rash. Ginger can also interact with certain medications. It can increase the effectiveness of blood thinning medications and medications used to treat diabetes. It can also cause issues with drugs used to treat anxiety and depression, as well as epilepsy.
These side effects can easily be avoided by using ginger in moderation. It is recommended that you consume no more than 1 to 2 grams of ginger per day. You can also consider taking a ginger extract supplement.
Conclusion
Ginger is a root that is spicy, warm, and pungent. It has been used in various types of medicine for its healing properties for thousands of years. It has many benefits for the body, including being an anti-inflammatory, helpful for digestion, and an antioxidant. It is important to remember that not all types of ginger are created equal.
Look for organic ginger to ensure that you are receiving the maximum health benefits from it. Now that you know what is ginger and what are the benefits of ginger, you might as well include it in your diet as much as possible.
