Ginger is valued for its anti-inflammatory and healing properties. It contains over 100 beneficial bioactive components. It’s also very high in antioxidants, which neutralize harmful molecules to prevent cell damage and disease.
Since ancient times, Ginger has been used as a remedy for colds, sore throats, muscle aches, and various other ailments. It is commonly used as a natural remedy for nausea and stomach upset.
HIGH CHOLESTEROL
Ginger may help maintain healthy cholesterol levels. A research review found that consuming 2 grams or less of ginger daily can significantly lower total cholesterol and certain lipids (fat that circulates in the blood), such as triacylglycerol (TAG). While several human studies have shown ginger can help reduce low-density lipoprotein (LDL, or “bad”) cholesterol, total cholesterol, and lipid levels, more research is needed before ginger can be recommended as a standard treatment. Ginger is considered safe and has little to no side effects when taken in smaller doses, like 2 grams or less. It’s also a readily available and inexpensive option for managing cholesterol levels.
Digestive Conditions
Ginger is widely known for its soothing effects on the stomach. Taking 1.5 grams of ginger may settle a queasy stomach. Several studies have shown that as little as 1 gram of ginger per day can effectively reduce pregnancy-related nausea and vomiting. Ginger may also help manage gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Ginger can ease stomach pressure by reducing gas and bloating, which might otherwise cause the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) to open.
MIGRAINES
Standard treatments for migraines often include nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and other medications. Researchers have explored using Ginger extract as a complementary treatment to further improve migraine relief.
OSTEOARTHRITIS
About 240 million people worldwide suffer from Osteoarthritis (OA), a painful, inflammatory condition often associated with aging. While NSAIDs can help manage osteoarthritis, long-term use can come with potential side effects. Research suggests that ginger’s anti-inflammatory properties make it useful as a co-treatment to reduce local inflammation in OA. Expert organizations also recognize ginger’s potential for managing symptoms of this condition.
MENSTRUAL PAIN
Ginger contains compounds that can provide antioxidant support. These include gingerols, shogaols, and zingerones. Their health-protective properties have several benefits, including relief from menstrual pain. These compounds help by relaxing muscular spasms that often occur before and during menstruation.
HIGH BLOOD PRESSURE
Ginger may help reduce blood pressure by inhibiting the body’s angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE), which plays a role in developing hypertension (high blood pressure). Ginger may also support healthy blood flow by reducing platelet aggregation (the clumping of blood cells that can constrict blood flow, leading to blood clots).
While ginger has been used as a complementary treatment alongside high blood pressure medications, further research is necessary to confirm its effectiveness.
HIGH BLOOD SUGAR
Ginger’s fragrant, spicy components—such as gingerols, shogaols, and zingerones—have blood sugar-lowering properties. Researchers have studied ginger for its anti-diabetic effects. Results showed that those who took the ginger supplement had significant reductions in both fasting blood sugar levels and HbA1c, a key marker of long-term blood sugar control.
TOOTH AND GUM SENSITIVITY
Ginger may serve as an effective alternative to over-the-counter medications for relieving pain and inflammation after oral surgery.
COUGH AND COLDS
Ginger may be used alongside other herbs or plant extracts to treat a cough. Ginger contains compounds called polysaccharides that have natural anti-tussive (cough-suppressing) properties. For example, a combination of ginger and tangerine peel (which also contains polysaccharides) extracts can be an effective home remedy for coughs. Ginger’s beneficial components (namely gingerols, shogaols, zingerones, and paradols) provide anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and antibacterial support. Microbes, including bacteria, can weaken a person’s immunity and contribute to the onset of a cold. An itchy, sore throat may accompany a cough and cold. Sucking on a hard ginger candy may provide some soothing relief.
HAY FEVER
Allergic rhinitis, commonly known as seasonal allergies or hay fever, is a response to allergens such as pollen. Symptoms of hay fever include stuffy (inflamed) nasal passages, itchy throat, and watery eyes. Research has shown ginger supplementation may be a potential alternative to medications such as Claritin (loratadine), an antihistamine.
HOW TO USE GINGER
Ginger root may be consumed whole, minced, or crushed and can be used as a potent flavoring in cooking and an herbal remedy for colds. It may be used in herbal teas, found as a powder, or juiced to flavor beverages or smoothies. You may use one tablespoon of ground ginger or up to two-thirds cup of freshly grated ginger in your preparations. Crystallized ginger candies are commonly used for sore throat relief. The amount of ginger in ginger chews and hard candies can vary. Ginger supplements are conveniently available in powdered, capsuled, and other forms.
SAFETY CONSIDERATIONS
Ginger is generally recognized as safe with no known side effects at moderate dosages (up to 4 grams per day). However, consuming too much may lead to side effects such as allergic reactions, digestive discomfort, and mood fluctuations.
POTENTIAL DRUG INTERACTIONS:
Some compounds in Ginger may interact with certain medications, including:
Warfarin and anti-platelet medications: Use ginger cautiously or avoid it when taking anticoagulants like Coumadin (warfarin) or anti-platelet medications. Ginger’s properties may enhance the effects of these medications, increasing the risk of bleeding.
Diabetes medications: As ginger may lower blood sugar levels, people taking diabetes medications should be cautious about consuming ginger. The combination of ginger and blood-sugar-lowering medications may increase the risk of hypoglycemia (dangerously low blood sugar).
Ginger root is an aromatic herb commonly used to enhance the flavors of dishes. With its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and other soothing properties, it’s also used to reduce symptoms of cold, sore throat, and stomach discomfort. Its anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving qualities make ginger a helpful adjunct therapy alongside conventional medications. It may relieve symptoms of osteoarthritis and reduce the intensity and duration of migraines. Ginger is generally recognized as safe when used in moderate doses. However, high doses may cause side effects like stomach distress or potential allergic reactions. Exercise caution and consult your healthcare provider if you take blood thinners or blood sugar-lowering medications to avoid a potential drug-herb interaction.
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