Ginger has been used for both food, flavor and medicine across the world for thousands
of years. It is a
flowering plant that originated from China and it is the Rhizome or underground stem that is used. It can
be used fresh, dried, or powdered. It can be used as an oil or juice and is also used as an ingredient in
processed foods and cosmetics. The unique flavors of ginger come from the essential natural oils such as
gingerol which is the potent component of the plant.
Ginger has powerful anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory properties and is used to balance blood sugar in
the body. Its strong flavor is used to relieve nausea. Ginger helps to keep bacteria and viruses at bay and
is powerful against E. coli.
Dental Health. Ginger helps to keep Your mouth and teeth healthy. It prevents harmful bacteria from
growing in Your mouth and gums. Ginger helps to abate bad breath and to prevent periodontal disease.
It has been used as a relief for toothache and helps to remove plaque from the teeth
Anti-Nausea. The strong flavor and taste of ginger helps to calm nausea caused by morning sickness,
motion sickness, chemotherapy and other causes. It is considered safe by doctors for use by pregnant
women.
Treatment of Diabetes. Ginger has been shown to aid in balancing blood sugar, insulin and metabolism.
This is helpful especially for patients with Type 2 diabetes. It also helps to prevent some of the
complications faced by diabetics due to its anti-inflammatory properties. Ginger also helps to increase
the uptake of glucose into muscle cells without the use of insulin.
Treating Indigestion. Ginger accelerates the rate and efficiency of digestion by stimulating digestive
enzymes and enhancing the stomach’s ability to empty quickly. Ginger helps to breakdown and expel
excess gas from the digestive tract as well as relieving constipation.
Easing Cold and Flu. Fresh ginger is very good in relieving cold and flu and protecting the respiratory
system. It fights effectively against viruses and bacteria that affect the respiratory system.
Heart Health. Ginger is very good for heart health. It helps to reduce cholesterol levels which pose a
threat to cardiovascular health. Studies have shown that ginger extracts can lower cholesterol to a
similar extent as the drug atorvastatin. Lowering cholesterol and blood triglycerides contributes a great
deal to healthy functioning heart and cardiovascular system in the body.
Cancer Prevention. Ginger is rich in anti-oxidants and anti-inflammatory molecules which are effective in
helping to prevent abnormal growth of cells that leads to tumors (both malignant and benign) and
cancers. It is thought to be effective against pancreatic cancer, breast cancer, colon cancer and ovarian
cancer. This is attributed to gingerol which is the active substance in ginger. The spice helps to reduce
abnormal cellular activity that causes DNA changes, cell death and the proliferation of cancer cells in the
human body.
Easing Painful Menstruation. Ginger is useful in reducing menstrual cramps and discomfort during their
monthly cycles. This is due to its anti-inflammatory and anti-nausea properties.
Ginger is widely available both as fresh and dried and it is easy to add to Your diet. It can be added to
food, pastries, confectioneries, juices and essential oils. It is a very healthy addition to Your diet and is
widely considered a superfood. Ginger has a very low Glycemic Index; this means that consumption of
ginger does not lead to a spike in blood sugar levels and thus makes it very healthy.
Among other health benefits, ginger can be used for treatment of;
Bronchitis and Respiratory Conditions
Heartburn
Menstrual Pain
Diabetes
Nausea & Vomiting
Upset Stomach and Indigestion
Diarrhea
Bacterial Infections
Cleansing and Detoxification
Pain relief
Arthritis and Osteoporosis