Ginger root, the edible portion used for culinary and health purposes, is actually a stem that is found in the soil, called a rhizome.This herb is known for its pungent yet pleasant smell, which stems from two of its chief compounds, namely, gingerol and shogaol.
Besides its widespread culinary use, ginger is also credited with considerable therapeutic potential for relieving a wide array of health complaints, such as nausea, coughing, chest congestion, and gastrointestinal distress.
This article will discuss the many uses of ginger, its health benefits, and some recipes that use this popular herb.
# May help with gastrointestinal distressGinger works as a digestive aid that can help in breaking down a heavy meal and the faster emptying of the stomach. By relaxing the gastrointestinal muscles, ginger can help relieve abdominal gas and cramping.
More studies are needed to understand how much and what type of ginger should be used to help protect the gastrointestinal system.
# Relieves cough and coldThe phenolic compounds that make ginger so aromatic – the gingerols, paradols, and shogaols – are powerful antioxidants as well as anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial agents.
All these properties can help fight viral infections such as the common cold and can also help relieve their discomforting symptoms.
This herb is known to induce a warming effect inside the body, which can help dissolve the mucus congestion and increase sweating to overcome a cold, flu, and fever.
Ginger is also known to relieve nausea and vomiting. Moreover, ginger functions as a natural analgesic and can reduce the pain or irritation caused by a sore throat, coughing, postnasal drip, and mucus in the lungs.
# Alleviates morning sickness
Vitamin B6 is often used to help with morning sickness and nausea, and ginger works in a similar manner.
Ginger is found to be effective in treating nausea during pregnancy, but more studies are needed to determine the exact efficacy of this herb and appropriate dosage.
# Reduces arthritic painAs ginger contains anti-inflammatory and analgesic agents, it can ease the pain and swelling associated with rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, and gout.
Some studies have shown that ginger extracts that contain gingerol and nongingerol components can prevent joint inflammation and degeneration.
It was also found that ginger essential oils that contain both gingerol and nongingerol compounds are more effective in treating inflammation from rheumatoid arthritis.
One study found that applying a prepared compress or patch of ginger to the midlumbar region of the back for 7 consecutive days helped control many symptoms of osteoarthritis.
# Relieves menstrual symptomsAs an anti-inflammatory and analgesic compound, ginger has been used to reduce menstrual pain and cramps.Ginger may also help reduce the volume of menstrual flow, especially during the first 3–7 days.
Also, this therapeutic herb may help improve your mood and relieve other physical and behavioral PMS symptoms before and during menstruation.
You can take this herb in the form of tea or capsules, but only in recommended amounts.
# Eases migraines
There is evidence to support that ginger may help relieve migraines and other discomforts associated with it, both in children and adults.
It does so by reducing the inflammation in blood vessels and blocking the pain felt during headaches and migraines.
Ginger can also provide some relief to dizziness and nausea often suffered as a side effect of the migraine. The medicinal intake of ginger may not only reduce the severity but also the frequency of migraine attacks.
# Promotes heart healthGinger can lower cholesterol levels, prevent blood clots, and lower blood pressure, all of which reduce the overall risk of heart disease.
Ginger does help in maintaining cholesterol levels. However, for a healthy heart, you cannot ignore the importance of a healthy lifestyle and diet.
# Provides respiratory reliefGinger contains multiple compounds that may help suppress allergic reactions, fight inflammation of the airways, improve asthmatic reactions, and fight respiratory viruses. This is largely due to its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.
Ginger helps curb the inflammatory response in the respiratory airways triggered by an allergy, infection, or asthma to restore normal breathing.