Ginger is known mostly as a culinary herb, but its benefits are of a broader spectrum than just taste. The medicinal effects of Ginger are so potent that Ginger has been used for its health benefits for many years. Most spices are usually grown above the soil, but the part that has the most medicinal value in Ginger grows underground. Ginger can be found in various forms such as dried ginger and powdered ginger, but for the medicinal effects, fresh Ginger is the best.
Ginger has a protective effect in the lungs that helps stimulate the secretion of mucus, quieting your cough and soothing any irritation in the throat. It can also boost your immune system because it contains Vitamin C, Zinc and Magnesium. Ginger also contains antiviral, antitoxic, and antifungal properties that help in the prevention and treatment against the common cold. The warming effects of Ginger make it a natural decongestant as well as an antihistamine, making it the perfect remedy for colds. It also has an inhibitory effect on the replication of Herpes Simplex Virus which causes the common cold sore.
Ginger is also very helpful in the treatment of allergies because it acts like an antihistamine. It also has anti inflammatory properties and can be used to treat diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, and various other muscular disorders. The chemical components of the root are capable of inhibiting the biosynthesis of prostaglandins which are responsible for causing inflammation. Thus the root has proven to be a highly effective form of treatment, in some cases, even more so than the NSAID's that are traditionally prescribed.
Ginger has also been proven to treat nausea, especially nausea from motion sickness, morning sickness, and as a side effect of chemotherapy. Ginger contains special enzymes responsible for catalyzing the proteins in your food, thus aiding in digestion and the prevention of cramps as wells as helping to relieve constipation. Ginger has proven to help lower your cholesterol levels and prevent the formation of blood clots. Recent studies show that ginger might also have a role in lowering LDL cholesterol because the spice can help reduce the amount of cholesterol that is absorbed in the gut. Another beneficial effect of Ginger is eliminating bad breath.
Ginger has many other beneficial effects. Ginger's cineole content may help contribute to stress relief by acting as a mood enhancer. It also helps in the relief of migraine headaches and may help in preventing cancer.
Ginger can be consumed as a liquid when prepared as a tea, or in food as an additional ingredient. Ginger is excellent in many dishes and is perfect when combined with garlic. Ginger doesn't only spice up your food it can also help to put some extra spice in your intimate life too. It improves blood flow to sexual organs.
Don't attempt to consume any products containing Ginger if you have any allergies to it, if you are pregnant, or if you are on any medication that might have an interaction with Ginger before consulting with your physician or your pharmacist.
