Benefits of Ginger Root

The benefits of ginger root were already acknowledged since ancient times. Ginger root which is the product of the ginger plant or Zingiber officinalis has been used to aid digestion and relieve stomach discomforts. Today ginger is still used to treat digestive and stomach problems such as diarrhea plus many more ailments and infections such as the common cold and the flu.

Studies and research have found that ginger root has analgesic, anti inflammatory, antibacterial, sedative and antipyretic properties. Ginger root contains essential oils called gingerol and shogaol. Because of its medicinal value, ginger extracts are produced as ginger tea, gingerbread, mints, ginger snaps, candies and ginger ale. Ginger extract is also available in capsules, liquid extract, ginger powder and ginger oil.

Some of the benefits of ginger are as follows:-

As a digestive aid

Including ginger in your diet is beneficial because it helps increase the digestive movement through the stomach and duodenum. A cup of ginger root tea after your meals will do the work also.

Escherichia coli or E coli and streptococcus are bacteria that are found in the intestines. Some of the strains are harmful. Studies have found that ginger is able to fight the harmful bacteria but not the beneficial bacteria.

Helicobacter pylori are another type of bacteria found in the stomach. The bacteria can cause inflammation of the stomach lining, duodenal and gastric ulcers and stomach cancer. Ginger may be able work against these bacteria and reduce the risk of the ailments.

Relieves morning sickness

Many women experience nausea and vomiting when they are pregnant. Clinical studies have shown that ginger may help relieve morning sickness. If you are pregnant, please consult your doctor first before taking ginger to relieve your morning sickness.

Relieves motion and sea sickness

Some people find that they get sick when they travel in cars, boats or trains. They will feel nauseous, dizzy and sweaty. It was found that taking ginger supplements may help reduce motion sickness. One of the best ways is to drink ginger infusion or take the extract an hour before travelling.

Relieves osteoarthritis pain

Osteoarthritis sufferers may find relief in hip and knee pain by eating ginger or taking ginger extract.

May reduce the risk of certain cancer

Clinical trials were done on mice and the results showed that ginger has the potential to reduce the risk of ovarian cancer. It may also prevent the growth of skin and stomach cancer cells.

May lower high cholesterol level and high blood pressure

One of the benefits of ginger root is its ability to lower cholesterol and high blood pressure. Taking ginger is beneficial for the cardiovascular system and may reduce the risk of heart diseases. It may also help clear the chest of mucus.

Is beneficial for the skin

Another one of the benefits of ginger root is it may help tone the skin and tighten the pores on the skin.

Supports uterus health

Studies have also found that ginger supports the uterine muscles. It will help the uterus return to its original shape.

Strengthens the immune system

Adding ginger to your diet may help boost your immune system and reduce your risk of getting sick.

May treat vertigo

Vertigo is a condition when a person feels like he is spinning even though he is stationary. An infection in the inner ear, migraine and motion sickness are some of the common causes. One of ginger health benefits is it may reduce or treat the vertigo.

To make your own ginger tea, buy fresh ginger root, peel off the skin, slice it and add it to hot water or hot tea. If you don't like the spicy taste, add stevia sweetener to it. Another way to make your ginger tea it is to blend the fresh peeled ginger root and drain the juice into a cup of hot water or hot tea.

Another way to take ginger is to make your own ginger suppository. Buy empty gelatin capsules and ginger powder, fill the capsules with the powder and swallow it.

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