Ginger is a spice that comes from the rhizome (or root) of the flowering plantZingiber officinale.
It is native to countries in Asia and is widely used as a spice and in alternative medicine.
Ginger may contain beneficial components, including gingerols and shogaols.
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These compounds are thought to have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
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1.
May Relieve Nausea and Vomiting
Ginger has been studied for its antiemetic (reducing nauseaand vomiting) effects.
They are present in the gastrointestinal tract, where they can affect gut function.
Contains Antioxidants
The main bioactive compounds that make ginger an herbal remedy are thought to have antioxidant properties.
Generally speaking, antioxidants help manage unstable molecules in the body known asfree radicals.
Over time, free radicals can damage healthy cells.
Further well-designed and long-term studies will help to provide more answers.
People receiving ginger supplementation reported reduced stomach pain, bloating, belching, nausea, and heartburn.
Some research has looked at ginger on markers for colorectal cancer risk, but this research is preliminary.
Both conditions involve inflammation and pain.
More research supports the use of ginger for OA than RA.
Start out with smaller doses and increase it gradually, not exceeding more than 4,000 mg daily.
May Reduce Cholesterol
High cholesterol is a risk factor for coronary heart disease (CHD).
Diet plays a role in managing cholesterol levels.
Ginger has been studied for heart health.
More, well-designed clinical trials are needed.
Can Relieve Menstrual Pain
Painfulmenstrual crampsare known asdysmenorrhea.
Ginger may help reduce pain associated with dysmenorrhea.
It should be noted that ginger appears to reduce the intensity of the pain, not necessarily the duration.
Consult your healthcare provider before adding any new supplements to your regimen.
Ginger is marketed for several health benefits.
Ginger can be a helpful add-on therapy but should never replace standard care.
How to Add Ginger to Your Diet
Ginger can easily be incorporated into foods.
Fresh ginger isn’t usually eaten raw.
It may be pickled and offered with sushi or mixed into a sauce or dressing.
Powdered and candied ginger have a more intense flavor and are often added to beverages or baked goods.
Ginger ale contains little ginger and barely any gingerols, but it has plenty of sugar.
Ginger “shots” are also available.
When looking for a supplement, select ones that have been independently tested throughConsumerLab.com,NSF.org, orU.S.
Pharmacopeia (USP).
No supplement is intended to treat, cure, or prevent disease.
That means some supplement products may not contain what the label says.
Side Effects of Ginger
Ginger is generally safe.
Ginger may increase the risk of bleeding.
Interactions may occur with:
Summary
Ginger is an herbal remedy used for thousands of years.
It is thought to relieve nausea, help digestion, and soothe menstrual cramps.
However, the research has mixed results and is difficult to interpret due to variable study methods.
Adding ginger to your diet can be simple and will add flavor to dishes.
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