Ginger is known as a medicinal and culinary spice in many traditional cultures. Also, it is a very powerful herb with many proven health benefits. Learn more about ginger and how to make the best use of it for your health.
Health Benefits of Ginger:
1. Ginger for Cancer Prevention
The developments in the study of ginger and its effect on health has been the positive correlation between the organic compounds in ginger and the prevention of cancer.
Gingerols, which is the same compounds which give ginger its anti-inflammatory qualities, have also been known to help in preventing carcinogenic activity in the colon, which can lead to colorectal cancer.
Also, recent studies linked these gingerols to apoptosis in ovarian cancer cells, thereby reducing the growth of cancerous cells and tumors, without harming the healthy cells around them.
2. Ginger for Heart Health
Ginger can help in lowering the risk of blood clotting, reducing cholesterol, and helping to maintain healthy blood sugar levels. Though additional research is needed, ginger could be a part of a treatment for diabetes and heart disease.
3. Ginger for Reducing Muscle Pain and Soreness
Ginger has been reported to be effective against exercise-induced muscle pain.
In a study, consumption of 2 grams of ginger daily, for 11 days, significantly reduced muscle pain in participants performing elbow exercises.
Ginger may be effective at reducing the daily progression of muscle pain, though it does not have an immediate impact.
These effects are believed to be mediated because of ginger’s anti-inflammatory properties.
4. Ginger for Reducing Nausea
Studies have concluded that ginger helps in curing nausea connected with pregnancy, motion sickness, and chemotherapy. Its quick absorption and rapid regulation of body functions cure nausea without the side effects of modern medications.
5. Ginger for Flu and Cold Relief
Drinking ginger tea is an effective way to keep warm, during cold weather. It is diaphoretic, meaning that it promotes sweating, therefore, working to warm the body from within.
In making ginger tea, slice 20-40 grams of fresh ginger, then steep it in a cup of hot water. Add a drop of honey or slice of lemon for flavor and additional benefits, including anti-bacterial properties and vitamin C.
Ginger tea makes a soothing natural remedy for a cold or flu.
6. Ginger for Menstrual Cramps
Ginger is more effective in reducing the pain severity than placebo. Also, ginger appears to be as effective as mefenamic acid, which is an NSAID pain medication.
7. Ginger for Increasing Sexual Activity
Ginger is a known aphrodisiac, and has been used for years to enhance sexual activity and arouse desire . Ginger’s scent contains a unique allure that helps in establishing a sexual connection. Also, this helps increase blood circulation, therefore, blood flows more easily to the mid-section of the body, which is an important area for sexual performance.
Recipe Tips for Ginger:
Below are some healthy and tasty ways to use ginger:
- Add dried or fresh ginger to your stir-fry or homemade salad dressing.
- Add fresh ginger to your juice or smoothie.
- Drink ginger tea by steeping peeled fresh ginger in boiling water
- Spice up any fish recipe by using fresh or dried ginger.
Related Articles:
1. What are the Health Conditions Ginger Can Help You With?
2. What Happens to Your Health When You Drink Ginger Juice in the Morning?
3. Never Consume Ginger If You Have Any of These Conditions