Ginger

Ginger benefits have been known for centuries.  The Ginger Rhizome belongs to the Zingiberaceae family is recognized as a Superfood.  It is one of the most widely used spices.  Ginger is commonly used as a cooking ingredient in Eastern cuisine, but its medicinal properties have been documented for several years in many ancient texts.

The Ginger we commonly refer to is the root (also called rhizome) of the ginger plant.   Ginger is available in many forms; like fresh slices, dried slices, powdered, as an oil extract or as a juice extract.  The powdered form is easy and convenient to ingest.

The unique fragrance and flavor of ginger come from its natural oils, the most important of which is gingerol.  Gingerol has powerful medicinal properties.   It has powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects.

Ginger has a very long history of use in various forms of traditional/alternative medicine. It has been used to help digestion, reduce nausea and help fight the flu and common cold.

Here are some of the curative properties of Ginger.

• Ginger promotes healthy circulation,  It is especially beneficial for limbs that feel cold in the hands and feet due to poor blood flow. It also demonstrates healing properties by regulating blood pressure.
• A combination of ginger, mastic, cinnamon and sesame oil, can reduce pain and stiffness in osteoarthritis patients when applied topically
• Ginger has been shown to lower blood sugar levels and improve various heart disease risk factors in patients with type 2 diabetes.
• Ginger may also lower Heart Disease Risk Factors
• Ginger Can Help Treat Chronic Indigestion  or dyspepsia, which  is characterized by recurrent pain and discomfort in the upper part of the stomach.
• Ginger contains a substance called 6-gingerol, which may have protective effects against cancer. However, this needs to be studied a lot more.
• Ginger has been known to reduce menstrual pain, also known as dysmenorrhea
• Ginger May Improve Brain Function and Protect Against Alzheimer’s Disease.    Studies suggest that ginger can protect against age-related damage to the brain. It can also improve brain function.
• Ginger is used in the treatment of many forms of Nausea, especially Morning Sickness
• Gingerol, the bioactive substance in fresh ginger, can also help lower the risk of infections.
• Ginger extract can inhibit the growth of many different types of bacteria.  It is very effective against the oral bacteria linked to inflammatory diseases in the gums, such as gingivitis and periodontitis.

Creative ways for adding Ginger to your diet

• Prepare Ginger Lemonade by combining freshly grated ginger, lemon juice,  honey and water.
• Combine a few fresh slices of ginger  with 3 teaspoons of powdered ginger. Add this to liquids like juices, water, tea or coffee, that could somewhat mask the pungent taste of raw ginger.
• Use grated ginger as toppings for side dishes, Hot and sour Soups, Salads.
• Make an excellent Asian salad dressing by mixing ginger, soy sauce, olive oil and garlic.
• Add ginger and orange juice to puréed sweet potatoes.
• Add grated ginger to your favorite stuffing for baked apples.
• Spice up your healthy sautéed vegetables by adding freshly minced ginger.