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In Southeast Asia, ginger was originally a tropical flowering plant, but it is now widely available worldwide. The plant belongs to the Zingiberaceae family, so it is closely related to turmeric, which also belongs to this family. Ginger's name is undoubtedly from the Sanskrit word Singapura, which is thought to come from the spice's scientific name (Zingiber officinale).
There are clusters of greenish-purple flowers on the leaves, which grow to about three feet. As a spice or as a healing aid, ginger's root or rhizome is part of the plant most commonly used. The inside of the root can be yellow, red, or white, depending on the variety of the root. In order to harvest it, all plants must be pulled from the soil, the leaves must be removed, and the roots must be cleaned.
There are several ways to consume ginger, including eating it fresh, drying it and storing it as a spice, or making it into tablets, capsules, or liquid extracts. A small amount of basic oil is found in the root and is used in cosmetics and beauty products as a fragrance. To know more about ginger root benefits read on to:
Did You Know:
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Nutrient Value of Ginger
Here is the nutritional information of ginger:
Nutrient |
Amount per 100 grams |
% Daily Value* |
Calories |
80 |
- |
Total Fat |
0.8 g |
1% |
Saturated Fat |
0.2 g |
1% |
Cholesterol |
0 mg |
0% |
Sodium |
13 mg |
0% |
Potassium |
415 mg |
11% |
Total Carbohydrate |
18 g |
6% |
Dietary Fiber |
2 g |
8% |
Sugar |
1.7 g |
- |
Protein |
1.8 g |
3% |
Vitamin C |
- |
8% |
Calcium |
- |
1% |
Iron |
- |
3% |
Vitamin D |
- |
0% |
Vitamin B6 |
- |
10% |
Cobalamin |
- |
0% |
Magnesium |
- |
10% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000-calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
List of Ginger Benefits
Eases Nausea
There's nothing fun about nausea. A nausea attack can happen for various reasons, from motion sickness to morning sickness to post-surgery symptoms, from chemotherapy to pregnancy. An upset stomach is the worst feeling in the world, and you would do anything to end it! Ginger comes into play. It can also cure nausea during pregnancy and chemotherapy.
Ginger helps with the anti-nausea effect, which has also been proven. Nausea and vomiting following surgeries are common. Researchers have found that ginger effectively reduces postoperative nausea and vomiting.
Cancer patients can also benefit from ginger's ability to soothe nausea post-surgery. Several studies have found that ginger eases nausea associated with chemotherapy treatments in adults and children. As scientific evidence suggests, ginger can benefit any type of nausea.
Reduces Bad Cholesterol
There is evidence to suggest that ginger may be able to reduce your LDL cholesterol levels. Thus, it may decrease your danger of heart illness. A recent, small study that confirmed these findings showed that consuming three grams of ginger (or about half a teaspoon) three times a day reduced triglyceride levels and cholesterol levels quite more than the placebo group who did not consume ginger.
Also read:
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- Turmeric benefits in daily health
Reduces Pain
This comes under the top ginger medical uses. As we all know, ginger is a natural pain reliever and offers more peace to our bodies. Therefore, this makes it a good supernumerary for pain pills. Gingerols act as an anti-inflammatory and work to stop compounds in the body that will result in pain.
Ginger's anti-inflammatory properties lower the pain linked with arthritis and boost joint mobility. Anti-inflammatory drugs are often prescribed to relieve arthritis symptoms, but ginger is an effective option.
Helps In Controlling Blood Sugar And Battling Obesity
According to research, Ginger helps promote normal blood sugar levels. Therefore, it may help reduce negative signs linked with high blood glucose levels, such as urination, fatigue, and increased thirst.
According to a study conducted in 2018, there are many benefits of ginger as it helps improve lipid profile and glucose control, insulin sensitivity, and glycosylated hemoglobin to guard against the growth of type 2 diabetes. Moreover, other gingers help with weight loss due to their amazing properties.
It Can Make You Look Younger
You see the common word antioxidant printed across your favourite costly face creams, but that is true for a good reason. Good research means antioxidants help save the skin from radicals. It includes bad environmental things, like pollution and UV rays, which raise collagen breakdown and harm the skin. According to experts, ginger is also used are in cream. Its antioxidant content will help handle your skin's collagen creation, increasing skin elasticity and smoothness.
Helps In Reducing Cancer
When people ask what is ginger used for, the most common answer is treating cancer. The antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties of ginger may help stop certain types of cancer from developing. There are some signs that ginger may help inhibit the growth of cancer cells in the body, based on studies performed on the subject. Indeed, ginger may not be enough to prevent cancer on its own. Still, a cup of ginger tea can contribute to the prevention of disease and can help you maintain a healthy lifestyle.
Boost Your Immunity
As we all know, ginger and honey contain antioxidant properties. Ginger with honey has many benefits, including helping strengthen the body's immunity. It has been shown that ginger and honey can aid the immune system in fighting colds and other illnesses regularly.
Nails Stomach Problems
Ancient cultures have used ginger as a digestive aid for thousands of years. Its carminative properties promote the elimination of intestinal gas, which in turn reduces bloating and flatulence. However, its intestinal spasmolytic effects also help to soothe upset stomachs by relaxing the digestive tract muscles.
You can eat slices of ginger dotted with salt before meals can help increase saliva flow to help ingestion and stop stomach upsets. Furthermore, drinking ginger tea after a heavy meal reduces gas and swelling. To help ease the various symptoms linked with food poisoning, you might also want to consider taking ginger if your stomach problems are more severe.
Thus, common Ginger is used for treating problems such as dyspepsia (chronic indigestion), colic in children, and diarrhea caused by bacteria.
Treats a Type of Cardiovascular Diseases
For years, ginger has been used to treat heart conditions due to its potassium, manganese, chromium, magnesium, and zinc content.
According to Chinese medicine, ginger has healing properties that support the heart, and ginger oil is often used to treat and prevent heart disease.
Various studies suggest that the herb's compounds lower cholesterol, control blood pressure, improve blood flow, and stop blocked arteries and blood clots - all of which ease heart attack and stroke risks.
Reduce Cough and Flu Symptoms
To treat cold and flu symptoms, honey, with its high antioxidant content, is the perfect match with ginger, which has a powerful anti-inflammatory effect. In addition, ginger's anti-inflammatory properties can relieve respiratory distress and ease tracheal breathing. In contrast, honey calms and helps ease the pain. Therefore, if you have a bad cough or the flu and have to stay in bed, a spoonful of ginger honey can ease your throat and help reduce some of the discomfort of your illness.
No you can enjoy sweetness at same time with our 100% natural ginger honey.
Enhances Cognitive Abilities
There is also evidence that ginger may improve cognitive function. In addition to increasing concentration and focus, ginger tea increases energy levels. Although ginger has been used for hundreds of years in herbal medicine to boost brainpower, recent research has shown that ginger's mental benefits are scientifically supported.
The results of a recent study suggest that ginger consumption may improve the ability of women in their middle ages to pay attention and process details cognitively. Some proof has also suggested ginger may positively affect Alzheimer's and other degenerative neurological diseases. Ginger might be able to improve memory impairments and mitigate brain damage.
Teeth-Friendly
Is it true that a cup of ginger tea might be beneficial to the health of your teeth? The properties of ginger are antimicrobial and antifungal, which makes it a good choice for treating harmful oral pathogens. In addition to improving your overall health, this can ensure that your teeth remain safe and healthy for as long as possible.
What Are Common Ginger Uses?
There are a large number of ginger uses, and you can use it anytime when you wish. Firstly it is used to treat menstrual pains, digestive and respiratory, cancer and many more. Secondly, it is commonly used to treat nausea, sore throat and cough. You must add it with honey and take it in one spoon to stop throat issues and cough. To lose weight, you can take ginger tea daily on an empty stomach.
Clinical Studies on Ginger for Health:
1. Ginger's Anti-Arthritic Effects: Clinical studies have shown ginger has strong antiarthritic effects. In early research, Sharma and colleagues found that ginger oil reduced joint swelling in rats caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis. Further studies demonstrated that a hydroalcoholic extract of ginger effectively reduced inflammation and arthritis in rats with collagen-induced arthritis.
Remarkably, the ginger extract (200 mg/kg per day) outperformed indomethacin (2 mg/kg per day), a common anti-inflammatory drug used as a control in the study. These findings highlight ginger’s potential as a natural remedy for arthritis, showing significant promise in managing joint inflammation and pain in clinical settings.
2. Ginger's Protective Effects on Testicular Health: A study by Moselhy et al. (2012) examined ginger’s protective effects against testicular toxicity caused by aluminium (Al) in rats. Over 60 days, ginger significantly reduced harmful MDA levels, improved sperm motility, increased the live-to-dead sperm ratio, and decreased sperm abnormalities.
It also reduced DNA fragmentation, showing ginger's positive impact on reproductive health. Histopathological tests revealed that ginger helped maintain normal testis structure and healthy spermatogenesis when administered alongside Al. These findings suggest ginger is a promising candidate for treating Al-induced testicular toxicity.
Ways to Incorporate Ginger into Lifestyle
Ginger is an incredibly healthy and flavorful ingredient that can be seamlessly incorporated into recipes, drinks, and DIY concoctions to harness its medicinal ginger benefits for women on a daily basis.
Ginger Tea
A comforting cup of ginger tea is one of the easiest ways to benefit from its anti-inflammatory and soothing effects. Simply boil one inch of ginger root with tea leaves or a tea bag and add honey or lemon. The spicy warmth helps relieve sore throat, cold, nausea, etc. while boosting immunity.
Add to Soups
Grating fresh ginger into clear or vegetable soups imparts wonderful flavour and a health boost. You can also add ginger paste or powder while cooking soups to experience its digestive advantages and antioxidant protection through a simple, daily meal.
Ginger Juice Shots
Juicing ginger root into short daily shots makes a therapeutic health drink that energizes, detoxifies, and brings a glow to your skin when consumed first thing in the morning. Mix with lemon juice and turmeric for better effects. Carry ginger juice concentrate while travelling, too.
Baked Goods and Smoothies
Add freshly grated ginger or powder to cookies, muffins, bread, etc., for a spicy twist and health benefits. Blend it into fruit smoothies, milkshakes, and lemonades for extra nutrients and better digestion after meals.
Homemade Body Scrub
Blend 2 tbsp ginger juice with sea salt and essential oils to make an invigorating body scrub. Rub it onto the skin, wait 5 minutes, and wash it off to boost circulation and soften nourished skin. Adding it to bath water also refreshes tired muscles.
DIY Pickles & Chutneys
Try including fresh or dried ginger while preparing homemade Indian pickles or chutneys for an enhanced flavour profile, along with antioxidant benefits from ginger that preserve these condiments for longer without additives.
So try including ginger in as many ways as possible beyond just cooking. Get innovative with teas, juices, smoothies, scrubs, pickles, etc., to comprehensively leverage its taste and health advantages.
Potential Side Effects of Consuming Ginger
Ginger is considered very safe for most people when consumed in moderation. However, there are some potential side effects to be aware of ginger medicinal uses:
Heartburn
The compounds gingerol and shogaol give ginger its spicy kick, which for some people may irritate the stomach lining and cause heartburn, especially when consumed in excess or by those already prone to reflux issues. Reducing intake provides relief.
Mouth or Throat Irritation
Eating raw ginger, especially in large quantities, can cause mild mouth or throat irritation in some. This is due to the spicy oils. Having it along with other ingredients provides a buffer against irritation. Peeling ginger may also help for some.
Diarrhea
Again, the gingerol compounds stimulate digestion, which may cause loose stools, gas, or diarrhea when over-consumed beyond one's tolerance levels. Lowering the dosage is key to avoiding this issue, which generally subsides on its own upon ginger withdrawal.
Blood Thinning and Bleeding Risks
Ginger's anti-platelet effect may increase the chances of bruising or bleeding in some people, especially those already on blood thinners or scheduled for surgery. Hence, they must inform doctors about ginger intake prior.
Allergic Reactions
Some sensitive people may develop rashes, headaches or trouble breathing, indicating an allergy to ginger compounds. Discontinuing consumption provides quick relief. Check by initially having very small amounts of ginger.
Effects on Pregnancy
Pregnant women should be cautious about eating ginger as very high doses may trigger uterine stimulation and miscarriage, though this is unverified. Mild ingestion seems safe but check with your gynecologist first.
Generally, ginger side effects remain mild, provided consumption guidelines and individual tolerance are factored in. Seeking medical guidance about suitability is prudent.
Interaction With Other Medicines
Consuming ginger may interact with some medications in the body. These include:
- Blood thinners - Ginger can increase bleeding risk when taken with medicines like warfarin, clopidogrel or aspirin.
- Diabetes drugs - Ginger can lower blood sugar levels, raising chances of hypoglycemia along with diabetes medicines.
- Blood pressure medicines - Ginger may lower BP, causing it to dip abnormally low when combined with these medications.
- Heart rhythm drugs - Ginger may interfere with the working of amiodarone.
- Immunity suppressors - Absorption of cyclosporine may increase by taking ginger 2 hours prior.
- Antibiotics like metronidazole-ginger: It can enhance absorption capacity when taken together.
So, in essence, ginger can amplify the effects of medications for diabetes, hypertension, cardiac issues or bacterial infections - leading to complications. Those scheduled for surgery should also avoid ginger beforehand due to bleeding risks.
If you are taking regular medications and wish to take ginger for its benefits, discussing possible interactions with your Ayurvedic doctor is best. This prevents negative effects.
Ayurvedic Perspective of Ginger
Ginger, known as “Adrak” in Hindi, is a very special herb in Ayurveda, the ancient Indian system of medicine. In Ayurveda, ginger is often called the “Universal Medicine” because it helps with many health problems. It is used both as a spice in cooking and as a natural remedy in many traditional medicines.
Ginger has a warm and spicy flavour, which helps balance the body's “doshas” – Vata, Pitta, and Kapha. These doshas are like the energies that control our bodies and mind. Ginger is especially good at calming Vata and Kapha doshas. For example, it helps keep the stomach warm, improves digestion, and makes you feel less bloated after eating.
Moreover, ginger is known to be very good for colds and coughs. It acts like a natural medicine that can clear the throat and make breathing easier. Ginger also boosts the immune system, which helps the body fight off infections.
Because of its warming nature, ginger is also used in teas and soups, especially during cold weather, to keep the body warm and cosy. Overall, Ayurveda considers ginger a powerful and helpful herb that keeps the body healthy and strong.
Related Ayurvedic Products
There are different types of recipes for ginger, like ginger tea, ginger lemon tea, and ginger juice, and you can add it to your food. You just have to boil some water and put the tea bag into it. Then, you are ready to have your healthy tea drink. By drinking these, you are ready to get rid of serious issues in your body. Zandu Care offers an Ayurvedic product range, and you can buy products from them depending on your health issues.
The Bottom Line
Many ginger uses and benefits help reduce any kind of health trouble. Moreover, ginger offers a healthy lifestyle to the person eating ginger daily, whether in food, as a juice or tea. No one should ignore the benefits of eating ginger, and then what are you seeking? Take the aid of Zandu care experts to know more.
FAQs
1. What is the origin of ginger?
Ginger originally came from Southeast Asia and is now grown worldwide. It belongs to the Zingiberaceae family, which also includes turmeric.
2. Why is ginger important in Ayurveda?
In Ayurveda, ginger is called the “Universal Medicine” because it helps balance the body's doshas (energies) and treats various health issues like digestion problems and respiratory conditions.
3. How does ginger help with nausea?
Ginger effectively prevents nausea from motion sickness, morning sickness, chemotherapy, and post-surgery. It helps calm the stomach and reduces the urge to vomit.
4. Can ginger lower cholesterol levels?
Yes, ginger can help reduce LDL cholesterol and triglycerides, which may lower the risk of heart disease.
5. What are the pain-relieving properties of ginger?
Ginger has anti-inflammatory compounds called gingerols, which can reduce pain and inflammation, making it helpful for conditions like arthritis.
6. Does ginger aid in controlling blood sugar?
Ginger can help maintain normal blood sugar levels, improve insulin sensitivity, and support overall blood glucose control.
7. How does ginger benefit the skin?
Ginger's antioxidants protect the skin from damage caused by pollution and UV rays, helping to maintain skin elasticity and smoothness.
8. Is ginger safe for everyone to consume?
While ginger is generally safe, excessive consumption can lead to heartburn, throat irritation, or interactions with certain medications, so it’s best to consume it in moderation.
9. What cardiovascular benefits does ginger provide?
Ginger supports heart health by lowering cholesterol, regulating blood pressure, improving blood flow, and preventing blood clots.
10. Can ginger improve cognitive functions?
Yes, ginger has been shown to enhance concentration, focus, and cognitive processing, and it may positively affect memory and neurological health.
References:
- The plant belongs to the Zingiberaceae family, so it is closely related to turmeric, which also belongs to this family. (https://www.sciencedirect.com/)
- Researchers have found that ginger effectively reduces postoperative nausea and vomiting. (https://www.sciencedirect.com/)
- When people ask what is ginger used for, the most common answer is treating cancer. (https://www.sciencedirect.com/)
- Ginger’s intestinal spasmolytic effects also help to soothe upset stomachs by relaxing the digestive tract muscles. (https://www.sciencedirect.com/)