Amazing Health Benefits Of Ginger

Many cultures have used ginger as a cooking ingredient for centuries. Ginger is a rhizomatous plant that originated from India and quickly spread around the globe and into our kitchens. If you don't have ginger on your spice rack, you're definitely missing out on something spectacular. The small golden herb has a fine taste and aroma that can transform a basic dish into an exquisite meal. This ancient spice also has numerous medicinal properties and is highly recommended by medical practitioners.

Alleviate Nausea

Nausea is an ill feeling accompanied by an involuntary urge to vomit. Ginger has been used for many years to remedy seasickness, and evidence supports its use as a suitable remedy for nausea due to many causes. It can also alleviate nausea after surgery and in cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy. Certain medications are also known to trigger vomiting. Nausea is caused by an increase in serotonin in the vagus nerve pathway.

Based on tissue and cellular research, ginger blocks excess serotonin and thus preventing the vagus nerve activation in the stomach and gut. In a study that monitored a total of 1,278 pregnant women, results showed 1.1-1.5 grams of ginger greatly alleviates nausea. If used for at least four days in a row the effects may increase by up to five times. One gram taken before medication is enough to mitigate both mild and severe nausea after two weeks.

Decreases Inflammation

It has been scientifically proven that ginger decreases inflammation. It contains a compound known as gingerol, which is a natural anti-inflammatory and antioxidant. Inflammation can occur as a result of illness or injury. When inflammation does occur, it triggers the white blood cells to become active. Overactive immune systems may also trigger unnecessary inflammation. Data collected from nine clinical studies indicate ginger reduces CRP, an inflammation marker, levels in the blood. Oleoresins, which cause ginger to be pungent, also decrease inflammation.

Ginger blocks the COX enzymes, which cause pain and inflammation in cells by triggering the release of inflammatory chemicals called leukotrienes and prostaglandins. These properties that help decrease inflammation also make ginger an effective painkiller. Studies that targeted athletes demonstrated a dose of two grams taken daily for five days reduces muscle pain from heavy exercises. Further research indicated it is just as effective as some popular painkillers but does not damage the stomach lining.