The fragrant zest provided by ginger makes ginger ale, ginger tea, candies as well as numerous Asian dishes so appealing.
Traditional Ayurveda recommends ginger for therapeutic use against joint discomfort, motion or airsickness and clearing the microcirculatory channels to enhance the absorption of nutrients. The modern science also supports similar effectiveness of ginger. The natural oil named gingerol provides the unique flavour and fragrance of ginger. In this article, we will explore astonishing health benefits and easy consumption tips of ginger.
In traditional and alternative medicine, ginger has been used for centuries. The main bioactive compound Gingerol is responsible for ginger’s diverse medicinal properties.
Say Goodbye to Nausea: Morning sickness or different types of nausea can be treated with ginger consumption. It interacts with serotonin receptors in the stomach to reduce nausea signals sent to the brain. However, you must consult with an expert regarding dose and frequency.
Ease Your Joints: Osteoarthritis involves degeneration of the joints, showing symptoms of excessive joint pain and stiffness. Regular consumption of ginger can reduce pain as well as disability.
Trim Down with Ginger: As per recent clinical trial reports, ginger can be used in weight loss program effectively. The phytochemicals improve waist-hip ratio while reducing body weight and obesity symptoms. Anti-inflammatory properties also contribute to weight loss.
Heart Healthy: By lowering blood sugar, ginger promotes heart health. According to a recent study, regular consumption of ginger can drastically reduce fasting blood sugar and HbA1c for type 2 diabetes patients.
Tame Your Tummy: As per one Ayurvedic sutra or verse, everyone should consume fresh ginger just before lunch and dinner to improve digestion. Ginger regulates indigestion by enhancing the passage of food through stomach. People suffering from functional dyspepsia show symptoms of abdominal pain, bloating, feeling too full, belching, and nausea. They can get relief by regular consumption of ginger. As per recent study, consuming a ginger and artichoke preparation just before a meal significantly improve the symptoms of indigestion.
Cholesterol Control Made Easy: Ginger consumption significantly reduce LDL or bad cholesterol, linked to increased risk of heart disease. Consumption of 1,500 mg of ginger per day were also shown to be effective in clinical study.
Ginger can be consumed fresh, dried, powdered, or as an oil or juice. It is used in numerous recipes, home remedies, and cosmetics. The most effective way of consuming ginger is chewing it raw with some salt. It's highly effective against common cold, cough and asthma.
(Credit - Insta/@juicewith_queency)
However, some people cannot consume it in this way because of pungent taste. You can drink tea by adding grated ginger. It's a brilliant relaxing drink. Add some lemon and honey to get maximum benefits. Another way of consuming ginger is to sauté grated ginger along with ghee and add this mixture to warm milk. You can add your preferred sweetener too. Otherwise, try desserts like ginger lassi. Nowadays, ginger capsules are also available in the market.
Ginger might interfere with the blood thinners, so people consuming this should get expert's opinion. Also, it may cause heartburn and diarrhoea when consumed in excess amount.