Ginger is a member of the Zingiber family and contains over 115 beneficial chemical ingredients, that provide a myriad of health benefits. Its medicinal properties have been valued for centuries, and a tonic made from this root has been used by the East Indians and the Chinese for over 4500 years.
It was also commonly used in ancient Rome, as a natural remedy in the treatment of various ailments and diseases.
According to Rachael Link, MS, RD:
“As one of the most used dietary condiments in the world today, it’s no wonder that the benefits of ginger are pretty impressive. With its zesty, peppery flavor and its extensive list of health benefits, ginger root is equal parts delicious and nutritious. It’s versatile, easy to use and has been associated with everything from beating motion sickness to better brain function.
The health benefits of ginger are largely due to its antioxidants, anti-inflammatory properties and content of therapeutic compounds like gingerol, shogaol, paradol, and zingerone.
Available in fresh, dried, ground, capsule and juice form, ginger root is easy to add to the diet and can have a lasting impact on just about every aspect of health.”
Here are some of the numerous scientifically-confirmed health benefits of ginger:
— Its main active ingredients stimulate blood flow and fight inflammation, so they improve heart health
— The gingerols it contains are powerful anti-inflammatories that prevent inflammation, soothe arthritis, and relieve menstrual cramps and pain
— The high levels of the compound 6-Shogaol, which activates the Nrf2 pathway by triggering a cytokine inhibition, treat skin issues like eczema
— Ginger reduces the loss of brain cells, treats chronic inflammation and oxidative stress, boosts memory and reaction times, and thus prevents Alzheimer’s
— One of its active ingredients, zerumbone, supports the Th2 allergic response and improves the Th1 response in mice to the white protein (albumin) in eggs, so this root is also beneficial in the treatment of allergies and asthma
— Ginger helps the process of burning fat, creates a feeling of satiety, boosts metabolism and regulates blood sugar and hormones, so it is a potent natural aid for weight loss
— It is rich in oleoresin, which eliminates excess mucus from the respiratory tract
— It naturally treats infections in the mouth cavity and fights bad breath
— It prevents the overactivation of the vagal nerve, and thus treats nausea and vomiting
— Since it boosts the circulation to the sexual organs, ginger is a natural way to boost the sex drive
— It is rich in gastroprotective elements that prevent loosening of the lower esophageal sphincter, acid reflux, and treat irritable bowel syndrome, and symptoms like constipation, bloating, and gastrointestinal issues
— It prevents fat and toxic buildup in the body and cleanses the lymphatic system
— Gingerols improve insulin sensitivity and diabetes, as they reverse diabetes, prevent diabetic complications, and prevent the sorbitol accumulation in blood cells
— It helps digestion and improves the proper absorption of nutrients in the body
— Its daily consumption provides considerable protection from nuclear radiation
Therefore, start consuming ginger regularly, and you will reap all the health benefits of this healthy root!
