Health Benefits of Ginger

Health Benefits of Ginger

Image source: "Ginger in China 01" by Anna Frodesiak - Own work. Licensed under Public Domain via Commons https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Ginger_in_China_01.jpg#/media/File:Ginger_in_China_01.jpg

Ginger (Zingiber(officinale) has been prized for centuries for its benefits to human health and well being. Ginger originated in Asia, and was used widely as both a culinary and a medicinal herb in not only Asian but Indian and Arabic traditions as well. The plant is famous for its concentrated, spicy aroma, which can be atributed to the fact that it is composed of up to 3% natural essential oils. The important active components of the ginger root are thought to be these volatile oils and pungent phenol compounds.

1. Ginger has carminative properties (anti spasm) and can be used to calm in upset stomach, providing!relief for the relief of bloating and gas.

2. The intake of ginger helps stimulate the secretion of mucus, quieting your cough and soothing any scratchiness in your throat.

3. Ginger has been proven (in multiple studies) to treat feelings of nausea, particularly in the form of seasickness, morning sickness, motion sickness and as a side effect of chemotherapy.

4. Ginger contains anti!viral, anti!toxic, and anti fungal properties, and is used for the prevention of and treatment against the common cold.

5. Ginger acts as an antihistamine and aids in the treatment of allergies.

6. Ginger displays anti-inflammatory properties and can be!used to treat rheumatoid arthritis, 
osteoarthritis, and various other muscular disorders. The chemical components of the root are instrumental in inhibiting the biosynthesis of prostaglandins, which are responsible for causing inflammation. 

7. Ginger contains special enzymes responsible for catalysing the proteins in your food, thus aiding in digestion and the prevention of cramps. The ancient Greeks used to eat ginger after a large mealin order to ease the digestion process.

8. Due to its promotion of mucus!secretion, ginger protects against the development of ulcers, unwanted holes in the lining of your stomach.

9. Ginger has proven to help lowery your cholesterol levels and prevent the formation of blood clots.

10. Ginger is  often used to settle an upset stomach or treat severe stomach ailments such as dyspepsia or colic.  It is freqently used todayin developing countries to treat diarrhea. A great way to incorporate ginger into your daily life is to make your own ginger tea or add it to a pot of loose leaf green tea, add to soups, stir fries or get creative with some ginger recipes.

11. Tea for chills, colds, nausea, circulatory stimulant, tummy-ache. Ginger tea is also great for healing the female organs after birth and/or surgery. Ginger tea is so effective against ailments of the reproductive and digestive systems because it stimulates circulation and supports a good blood supply to these organs.

12. Massage Oil for aches and pains, and circulatory stimulation.