We have been using ginger to heal various ailments for over 5,000 years. Originally from Southeast Asia, this flowering plant with its rhizome root was widely used for it’s healing properties by the ancient Romans and many other cultures. It’s considered to be one the healthiest spices on the planet and, the added bonus is that it’s delicious. Ginger is beneficial on many fronts; listed below are the top three.
Anti-inflammatory
Ginger, like cardamom and turmeric, contains gingerol which is a natural anti-inflammatory. Inflammation is at the root of many illnesses and diseases which afflict the modern world. People who suffer from autoimmune problems, such as lupus and fibromyalgia, are particularly prone to inflammation which triggers episodes. Ginger is highly recommended for those suffering from autoimmune diseases. Ginger’s anti-inflammatory properties can reduce pain associated with arthritis and all manner of muscle and joint pain.
Digestion and Nausea
Ginger really helps to alleviate nausea, especially during pregnancy. It’s also recommended for people who feel nausea while undergoing chemotherapy. Some people use it to alleviate nausea associated with travel sickness.
Ginger has proven to assist to multiple digestive problems. It instantly relieves discomfort after a heavy meal. Research is underway at the moment to try and prove that ginger actually encourages food to move from the stomach to the small intestine, ready for digestion and absorption.
Reduces the Risk of Chronic Disease
Ginger contains high levels of antioxidants. These antioxidants not only help reduce inflammation, they also help prevent free radical damage to cells, thus staving off diseases such as cancer. The phytonutrients in ginger help protect our body’s cells from DNA damage.
Ginger anti-inflammatory properties also helps to protect us from heart disease by lowering cholesterol. One study found that ginger also reduces lipoproteins which are a risk factor for heart disease.