Ginger

Ginger (lat. Zingiber officinale) is an aromatic and medicinal plant that originates from Asia. It has strong aromas and a spicy taste. The most used part of this plant is the root, which can be consumed fresh, dry, powdered, in capsules, or as a syrup and oil.

Ginger has a very long history of use in various forms of traditional and alternative medicine and has a long list of positive health effects. One of the reasons why ginger has so many benefits is that it contains a powerful component called gingerol. This substance has an anti-inflammatory effect, which means that it can relieve pain and swelling.

What’s great about ginger is that you can use it in fresh or ground dried form. Ground dried ginger is much more concentrated and you should consume less of it, and 1 tablespoon of fresh ginger is equal to 1/4 teaspoon of ground dried ginger.

7 health benefits of ginger

Ginger is loaded with nutrients that have powerful benefits for the brain and the whole organism. Here are some of them:

• May drastically lower blood sugars and improve heart disease risk factors: Ginger has been shown to lower blood sugar levels and improve various heart disease risk factors in people with type 2 diabetes.
   
• Participates in the fight against infections: Gingerol can reduce the risk of infection. In fact, ginger extract can inhibit the growth of different types of bacteria. Ginger is very effective against oral bacteria, associated with gum diseases such as gingivitis and periodontitis.
   
• May significantly reduce menstrual pain: Ginger is as effective for menstrual pain as pharmaceutical products and it should be taken at the beginning of the menstrual period.
   
• Relieves migraines: Ginger root is ideal for relieving tension and pain caused by migraines. Due to its anti-inflammatory properties, ginger blocks substances that create pain and inflammation in the blood vessels of the brain.
   
• may help prevent cancer: Some research claims that ginger may be effective against pancreatic cancer, breast cancer and ovarian cancer.
   
• Boosting Immunity: It is recommended that you drink a glass of water or tea on an empty stomach every morning, to which you will add a teaspoon of grated ginger and squeezed lemon juice. These ingredients promote the formation of white blood cells, and naturally strengthen your immune system.
   
• Protects against Alzheimer's disease: Oxidative stress and chronic inflammation can accelerate the aging process, and they are believed to be key drivers of Alzheimer’s disease. Some research results show that ginger improves brain functions such as working memory and timely reactions and reduces inflammatory reactions in the brain.

How much ginger can you take?

Most people tolerate ginger well. Experts point out that people who do not suffer from any medical conditions can take 4 grams of powdered ginger a day. Pregnant women are allowed to take 1 gram of powdered ginger a day. In studies examining the health effects of ginger, the most common dose was between 250 milligrams - 1 gram of ginger 3 to 4 times a day.

Who should not consume ginger?

However, it should be used carefully because it will not suit everyone and there are people who are not allowed to consume ginger.

People who have some health problems with gallstones, taking some anticoagulants medications or pregnant women should consult their doctor before deciding to consume ginger.