Ginger
Ginger is a plant native to Asia. The ginger spice comes from the roots of the plant. It not only adds delicious flavor to food — it’s also full of nutrients.The scientific name for ginger is Zingiber officinale, and It’s classified as a member of the Zingiberaceae family, making it a close relative of turmeric.
Nutrients –
Vitamins and minerals present in fresh ginger in trace amounts:
• Vitamin B3 and B6
• Iron
• Potassium
• Vitamin C
• Magnesium
• Phosphorus
• Zinc
• Folate
• Riboflavin
• Niacin
Chemical Compounds –
It contains more than 400 chemical compounds, but researchers believe the gingerol compounds are the ones responsible for the root’s health benefits.They’re also responsible for its smell and flavor.
Few other super-healthy bioactive compounds in ginger root:
• paradol (antioxidant and antimicrobial powers)
• shagaol (anticancer activity!)
• zingerone (even more antioxidant properties!)
• flavonoids ( vitamin P!)
Properties –
• Anti-inflammatory
• Antioxidant
• Analgesic
Useful Part –
Ginger’s root or rhizome is the part used as a spice or healing aid. Depending on the variety, the inside of the root can be yellow, red, or white.
Dosage –
Ginger is commonly consumed in foods and as a flavoring in drinks.
As medicine, ginger is available in many forms, including teas, syrups, capsules, and liquid extracts.
It has most often been used by adults in doses of 0.5-3 grams by mouth daily for up to 12 weeks.
It is also available in topical gels, ointments, and aromatherapy essential oils.
Health Benefits –
• Soothes upset stomach
Ginger has long been proposed as a remedy to ease morning sickness during pregnancy.It may also help relieve nausea and vomiting after surgery and in people going through chemotherapy.Eating ginger may improve indigestion symptoms by helping the stomach empty faster.
• Relieves menstrual cramps
When it comes to period pain, it might actually be right up there with pain medications.women who took 250 mg ginger capsules four times a day had the same pain relief as those who took 250 mg of mefenamic acid or 400 mg ibuprofen capsules four times per day.
• Relieves inflammation
Ginger is sometimes taken as a supplement for rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis. Since it is an anti-inflammatory, it may also be able to ease joint pain due to inflammation from arthritis.
• Reduces cancer risk
Its high antioxidant content is likely responsible for fighting off cancer cell growth.Gingerol (an active compound in ginger) has cancer-fighting abilities. Namely, it may help in the prevention and treatment of gastrointestinal cancers.
• Prevention of common cold
The root has a warming effect, which is believed to help with cold symptoms. Drinking ginger can keep you warm, while also helping the body sweat and get rid of infections.
• Lower blood sugar level
Adding ginger to your diet could help improve blood sugar levels and lower your risk of developing type 2 diabetes.
• Reduces weight
It is helpful in losing excess fat from you belly and other body parts due to its antioxidant properties.
• Lower blood pressure
Ginger might reduce blood pressure in a way that is similar to some medications for blood pressure and heart disease.
Side Effects –
Ginger is considered generally safe, but large doses can lead to unpleasant side effects:
• heartburn
• diarrhea
• upset stomach
• mouth or throat irritation
Avoid overdosing by talking with your doctor before taking it’s supplements.
For more informative articles on herbs and other health issues, please visit our website www.santripty.com and also feel free to consult.