The Amazing Health Benefits of Ginger

For over 2000 years, ginger has been utilized in traditional Chinese medicine to treat various ailments. This flexible and flavorful ingredient is grown as a root and can be consumed in different forms such as tea, beer, ale or in cooking. However, ginger is not only known for its unique taste, but it also has various health benefits. In this article, we will uncover 11 surprising benefits of ginger that you may not have known before.

1. It Improves Blood Circulation

Ginger contains compounds such as gingerols and zingerone which help in warming up the body, enabling better circulation. Amino acids found in ginger assist in increasing circulation, reducing the likelihood of cardiovascular diseases. Improved circulation promotes the spread of key nutrients, minerals, and oxygen throughout the body, promoting healthy cell growth and organ function.

Ginger can also help relieve pain, especially in individuals suffering from arthritis, gout, and migraines. Gingerol, a key compound found in ginger, has anti-inflammatory properties that block the chemical COX-2 responsible for pain sensation. Athletes can consume ginger post-workout to prevent swelling.

2. It Helps Ease Menstrual Cramps

Women often suffer from menstrual cramps, fatigue, and PMS. Ginger tea helps to relax the muscles, reducing the cramping normally associated with this time of the month. Heavy or irregular periods can also be relieved by consuming ginger tea. Women suffering from bloating can benefit from consuming ginger due to its anti-inflammatory properties. Studies show that consuming between 750-2000mg of ginger powder over three to four days can relieve pain effectively.

3. It Helps Fight Nausea and Digestive Tract Ailments

Ginger is well-known for its ability to relieve stomach-related ailments such as nausea. Compounds found in ginger such as volatile oils and phenol compounds help to ease an upset stomach, while ginger tea can be consumed slowly by women suffering from morning sickness. Research has shown that ginger has a 75% success rate in curing morning sickness and stomach flu. Ginger is also recommended for patients undergoing chemotherapy suffering from nausea. Individuals suffering from motion sickness can also benefit from ginger tea.

4. It Helps Strengthen Your Immune System

Ginger contains antioxidants which help to promote a healthy immune system. It also helps to reduce the duration of cold and flu illness by breaking down toxins in the body quickly. Research studies have shown that steeping 2 tbsp of freshly shredded or chopped ginger root in hot water, 2-3 times a day can treat cold and flu symptoms in adults. Ginger also contains magnesium, zinc, and chromium which work well in aiding the immune system.

5. Colon Cancer Prevention

Ginger can help to reduce the growth of colorectal cancer cells. A study done at the University of Minnesota found that ginger can slow down the growth of cancer cells. Ginger contains therapeutic and preventive powers that are linked to anti-cancer activity.

6. Ovarian Cancer Treatment

Ginger powder induces cell death in ovarian cancer cells. Ginger is also effective at controlling inflammation, which contributes to the development of ovarian cancer cells. Ginger stops the inflammatory reaction by halting the growth of cancer cells.

7. Helps With Weight Loss

Ginger plays an important role in promoting weight loss. A study from the National Library of Medicine found that ginger increases the number of calories that individuals burn. Ginger has a positive effect on weight loss and is linked to various mechanisms.

8. Helps With Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis affects millions of people worldwide, but ginger is a viable option in reducing the symptoms of the condition. Combined with cinnamon, mastic, and sesame oil, ginger can also reduce stiffness and pain in individuals with osteoarthritis of the knee.

9. May Lower Blood Sugars

Ginger has powerful anti-diabetic components which can be effective in lowering blood sugar. A study conducted on 41 participants with diabetes found that consuming 2 grams of ginger powder every day can reduce blood sugar levels by 12%.

10. Improves Brain Function

Oxidative stress and chronic inflammation are the key drivers of Alzheimer’s disease and other ailments linked to cognitive decline. Ginger is beneficial in promoting better brain function. A study done in 2012 found that daily doses of ginger can improve working memory and reaction time among middle-aged women.

11. Helps in Lowering Cholesterol Levels

High levels of cholesterol can increase the risk of heart disease. Ginger powder, when consumed daily, can help to lower cholesterol levels by 17.4%.

Conclusion

Ginger has been utilized in traditional Chinese medicine for over 2000 years for various medicinal purposes. It is a flexible ingredient that can be consumed in different forms such as tea, ale, or in cooking. Ginger has several health benefits, and it is a natural remedy that can be used to treat various ailments. By consuming ginger, we can help to prevent and treat several health issues such as colon and ovarian cancer, weight loss, and strengthen the immune system among others. Ginger is readily available and easy to incorporate into our diets. If you have not yet included ginger into your diet, it is time to do so to reap the numerous health benefits.