15 Amazing Benefits of Fresh Ginger

Ginger is a type of herb that can spice up dishes and special recipes; but it’s actually more than that, as it’s a medicinal root crop that can be used in a lot of ways for health benefits. Finding out about the uses of this food ingredient will allow you to realize its worth so that you can include it in your daily recipes.

Antioxidant Properties

As with all types of herbs, ginger also contains high levels of antioxidant properties. This function can inhibit inflammation inside the body so as to provide protection from sickness and complications. Antioxidants are especially effective in making the immune system strong so that it can resist the harmful side effects of free radicals in the environment. And since we are living in a world that’s already highly polluted with chemicals and other toxic elements, taking in foods that are rich in antioxidant properties is very much recommended.

Stomach Health

Intake of ginger in whatever form can calm the stomach as it contains compounds and substances that can heal and soothe the intestinal tract. It can also fire up the production of digestive enzymes so as to assist in the proper digestion of food. So if you are prone to stomach upsets and digestive problems like indigestion, constipation, and even diarrhea, consumption of fresh ginger regularly will help minimize these problems.

Pain Relief

Fresh ginger has such potent healing abilities that it can provide pain relief to sufferers of joint and muscular pain. Those who are affected by arthritis will benefit from an increased intake of this root crop so as to reduce pain and aid in the improvement of mobility. Even athletes and trainers who are prone to muscle pain can use this powerful herb for the same purposes. And slices of ginger can even be made to float in the bath tub for a really soothing and relaxing effect.

Nausea During Pregnancy

Nausea and feelings of vomiting are very common in pregnant women. But since this particular state in a woman’s life is very sensitive, taking anti-vomiting drugs is not recommendable. Even prescription drugs can lead to birth defects; and some can even cause miscarriages and other complications. Studies show that taking ginger either in its fresh form or as tea can help alleviate vomiting symptoms without exposing mother and child to unnatural and harmful drugs. Before trying this remedy for nausea, however, it is still advised to consult your doctor first so as to guarantee safety for your baby.

Prevention of Colorectal Cancer

Ginger has a special component called Gingerols, and this is the substance that’s mainly responsible for the distinctive flavor that’s embodied in this ingredient. Said compound carries anti-cancer properties which have been found to be especially effective in preventing the occurrence of colorectal cancer. Since this is a common problem especially to those who have family history of said disease, taking in ginger as a preventive measure can greatly help.

Immunity Booster to Fight Infections

Ginger is high in vitamins, minerals, and phytonutrients that also serve as antioxidants. All these factors contribute to having a strong immune system so that the body can effectively fight infections. Aside from using it as a preventive measure for contracting diseases, increasing one’s intake of this herb can also contribute to faster healing and recovery from already existing ailments and infections. So if you have colds or flu, include fresh ginger in your treatment plan by consuming ginger ale and similar types of drinks. Its detoxifying effect will stimulate healthy sweating so as to rid the body of toxic substances and facilitate healing. Warm or hot ginger-made drinks will also help in clearing throat and nose congestions and can even clear up symptoms of sinusitis too.

Appetite Stimulant

Ginger’s pungent flavor can serve as an appetite stimulant by working on the taste buds. For people who are experiencing poor appetite, drinking ginger-made juices and teas can help alleviate this problem. And since intake of said type of herb can also promote the production of digestive enzymes, the process of digestion is also aided.

Prevention and Treatment of Ovarian Cancer

Clinical studies show that ginger carries anti-tumor properties that help in the prevention of ovarian cancer in women. This can be attributed to the compound present in the herb that can induce cell death when introduced in the system. Inflammation, which is often the start of cancer formation, can also be prevented through the presence of said element.

Menstrual Pain Relief

The healing elements that are present in fresh ginger help promote healthy reproductive system. For sufferers of menstrual pain, this can prove to be helpful as consuming this ingredient during the beginning of one’s cycle can help alleviate the symptoms of painful menstruation. In fact, regular intake of ginger also promotes regularity in one’s menstrual cycle.

Motion Sickness Remedy

Those who are prone to motion sickness when traveling by air, sea, or land can benefit from the relaxing and soothing effects of ginger on the nerves. Ginger can be chewed or candied when preparing for a trip since its juices can be slowly absorbed by the body this way. Although there are anti-motion sickness pills that you can also take for such conditions, these are not as natural and safe as fresh ginger. By depending on the soothing effects of ginger for motion sickness, you can also take advantage of its other health benefits.

Flatulence Remedy

Gas pain can be caused by a lot of things including stress, digestion problems, and improper eating habits. By incorporating ginger in your menus and recipes, it will help alleviate this problem as said herb works in settling the stomach. Gas pain can therefore be reduced through the regular intake of ginger; and said ailment can be properly controlled too.

Remedy and Treatment of Upper Respiratory Problems

The compounds contained in ginger roots are also contributory to lung and heart health. So if you have upper respiratory problems like bronchitis and asthma, adding ginger in your food recipes can lead to faster healing and recovery from said ailments. The nutrients contained in this herb will also make your heart and lungs become stronger so that these organs are less prone to such problems. Patients who are always experiencing chest pain will also find relief from the common symptoms of heart problems.

Treatment for Burns

The potency of ginger as a healing agent is very much proven for general health. However, it can also be used in treating minor skin problems such as burns. Aside from its soothing effects when applied into wounds, it also contains healing elements that can aid in the fast recovery and repair of damaged tissues on the surface of the skin. The juice and oil that can be extracted from a fresh ginger can be directly applied on burns for this purpose.

Flavoring Agent for Food

Ginger is popular as a food ingredient because of its distinct flavor and taste. There are recipes that especially call for the inclusion of ginger; and there are also menus that can be livened up with the use of this herb. Dishes can be given a different kind of twist when this root crop is incorporated in the recipe; and it can give a “kick” when included in juice and tea concoctions. As a versatile ingredient, this can make sauces, dips and dressings truly delicious and tasty.

Cosmetic Use

The use of ginger as one of the main ingredients in cosmetic products is now a common practice among cosmetic Companies too. Aside from utilizing its unique scent to add a spicy appeal to soaps, perfumes, and other similar products, users will also benefit from the healthy effects of this ingredient. It’s a natural component that won’t cause negative side effects to users; and its nutritious elements will benefit the skin and body as well.

As you can see, ginger may seem like an ordinary ingredient in recipes and meals, but it’s actually an indispensible component for good health. And since its usefulness is backed by science and clinical studies, no one can deny the fact that it’s really one of the most important vegetables today.

As a root crop and herb, ginger can be utilized for its flavor especially in the preparation of food and drinks. And as a contributory element to leading a healthy life, it can be the source of vitamins, minerals, phytonutrients, and antioxidants.

The many benefits of fresh ginger are truly impressive and amazing. So don’t miss out on one of the healthiest food in the world.