Ginger is one type of herb whose active part is the rhizome which looks like the roots of a plant which origates from the tropical regions of Asia, especially in the countries of India and China, although it is currently cultivated in many parts of the world.
It has become a custom and practice for many of us to use ginger as an ingredient in various foods such as tea but without knowing the benefits found in ginger for our health.
Ginger is a good source of antioxidants, including gingerol, shogaol, and zingerone, nutrients that are proven to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that can help protect against cell damage.
Ginger has also been found to have low amounts of important vitamins and minerals, including potassium, calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, folate, choline, and selenium.
Below are some benefits obtained by consuming ginger for body health.
1.Improve the digestive system.
Ginger can help stimulate the production of fluids involved in the entire digestive process and reduce the possibility of constipation and removal of gases in the stomach..
It is often used to help reduce nausea and vomiting, especially for pregnant women or people who have undergone surgery.
2. It helps to reduce muscle pain.
Due to the presence of nutrients that can prevent inflammation, then ginger can help reduce body muscle pain.
Some studies show that ginger can also help reduce the symptoms of arthritis, such as joint pain and inflammation.
3. Ginger can Improve heart health.
By reducing the risk of getting high blood pressure, which is a direct risk factor for heart disease.
Due to its cholesterol lowering effects, ginger reduces the risk of heart disease.
It contains antioxidants that can help protect cells from damage caused by oxidative stress, which is linked to heart disease.
4. It can help in balancing blood sugar levels.
By improving sugar tolerance, in the sense of controlling blood sugar levels and making the level of sugar in the blood normal, where it can be of great help to people suffering from diabetes.
5. To help in reducing the posibility of getting cancer.
Although more research is needed, ginger has been shown to have potential anti-cancer effects.
6. Can help heal stomach ulcers.
Due to the presence of Antibacterial properties, ginger can prevent the reproduction of bacteria called ‘Helicobacter pylori’, this bacteria causes stomach ulcers.
Inflammation in the stomach lining caused by the bacteria can be reduced due to the presence of anti-inflammatory effects, and protecting it aganst damage caused by stomach acid and Helicobacter pylori because of its gastroprotective effects.
Note: Although ginger can be used as an aid to people suffering from stomach ulcers, it is important to consult a doctor who specializes in this matter for proper treatment especially for mothers who are pregnant, breastfeeding, or taking medication.
Some ginger usage for health benefits are as below.
A. You can make tea from ginger:
Boil small pieces of fresh ginger root for several minutes.
You can also add honey or lemon to get a good taste.
Benefit: It helps reduce muscle pain, reduce nausea, and strengthen the body’s immunity in general.
B. Incorporate it as an ingredient in food recipes:
Use it by adding chopped or grated ginger to soups, or sauces.
Benefit: Adds good flavor in food and provides you with great health benefits such as reducing inflammation and improving blood circulation in your body.
C. You can use grated or ground ginger.
You can grate or grind fresh ginger in a blender and sprinkle it on vegetables such as spinach, salad, or add it to boiled eggs.
Benefit: It will add flavor and essential nutrients to your food and bring you good health.
D. Ginger Tablets:
Ginger tablets can be found in health food stores. Although you have to follow the directions on related package.
Benefit: It is a method that will make it easier for you to get a dose of ginger for your daily needs.
NB. You have to be careful so that you can get real natural ginger and not the industrialized one.