No culinary delight is complete without it and no grandma’s home remedy excludes it. Ginger’s tantalizing taste compliments the blandest of food and is a must in every Indian kitchen.
On the other hand the properties of the spicy, pungent underground bulb have been acting as a natural remedy for centuries. Now, researchers worldwide are finding that ginger works wonders in the treatment of everything from cancer to migraines. If you need reasons to love ginger some more, we list here some amazing health benefits of this incredible root.
Respiratory problems
Chinese medicine practitioners commonly prescribe ginger to treat symptoms of cold and flu. The root works as an antihistamine and decongestant that is known to stall airway contraction and help stimulate the secretion of mucus. It has cold-easing effects that can help with symptoms like sore throat and cough. For example a teaspoon of ginger juice with honey is effective against sore throat. Ginger tea is the preferred choice to get rid of congestion in the throat and nose. A mixture of fresh ginger juice with fenugreek and honey is excellent during asthma.
Cancer
This little wonder spice found in practically every household is a powerful fighter against deadly diseases like cancer, thanks to the high level of antioxidants it carries. Ginger has the ability to induce cell death (apoptosis) and suppress certain proteins. The rhizome may be powerful weapon in the treatment of ovarian cancer and it may also slow the growth of colorectal cancer cells.
Menstruation and maternity
Several studies have concluded that ginger is very effective in the treatment of morning sickness. Also when taken at the beginning of the menstrual period, ginger can reduce stomach cramps and pain in most women.
Arthritis
The analgesic and anti-inflammatory property of ginger may help alleviate pain of arthritis. Also neuro-degenerative diseases may benefit by ginger””””””””s ability to inhibit nitrous oxide production and pro-inflammatory cytokines. Add some ginger oil into your bath to ease muscle and joint aches.
Strengthens immunity
Ginger inhibits fatty deposits from the arteries which can in turn help foil potential risk of a stroke. No wonder doctors advise intake of a little ginger everyday to improve the immune system.
Improves digestion
Eat fresh ginger just before lunch to fuel appetite and fire up the digestive juices. By stimulating gastric and pancreatic enzyme secretion, the knobbly root improves the absorption of essential nutrients in the body. It is also known to have an antispasmodic agent, which helps explain some of its beneficial effects on the intestinal tract.
Quells motion sickness
Ginger is touted as effective remedy for the nausea triggered by motion sickness. Though the exact reason for the benefit conferred is ambiguous, a study of naval cadets revealed that those assigned to ginger powder suffered less.
Edited by Neelam Goswami on 11-02-2014.
