Ginger is a popular spice used in many cultures around the world for both culinary and medicinal purposes. Often used in cooking and baking, this versatile root is widely-known for its distinct flavour and aroma; but what most people don’t know is that ginger offers a wealth of benefits to both health and wellbeing. This article will look at many of these benefits, including its potential to reduce inflammation, lower blood pressure, and aid weight loss.
Health Benefits of Ginger
Ginger has long been used for its medicinal purposes – from its anti-inflammatory effects to reducing nausea and other digestive issues. In recent years, researchers have looked closer at the healing properties of ginger, and their findings are encouraging.
1. Reduces inflammation
One of the most promising properties of ginger is its potential to reduce inflammation. Gingerol – the primary active compound in ginger – has been found to be effective when reducing inflammation, with studies further evidencing that, beyond inflammation, ginger can be effective in supporting symptoms associated with rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis.
2. Lowers blood pressure
Ginger has also been found to be beneficial for reducing blood pressure and improving circulation. One study has found that taking a ginger supplement daily for eight weeks significantly reduced systolic and diastolic blood pressure in people with hypertension (high blood pressure). Additionally, ginger may be able to support high cholesterol levels, and in-turn, overall heart health.
3. Supports healthy skin
For the skin, ginger is often coined a ‘hidden fountain of youth’. Simply put, it reduces the signs of ageing by flushing out toxins, improving blood circulation, and accelerating skin elasticity and collagen production. Plus, because ginger is rich in antioxidants, it supports everything from irritated skin and scarring, to offering added protection from UV rays.
4. Aids natural weight loss
When it comes to weight loss, ginger can be used to reduce feelings of hunger, to instead promote feelings of fullness. In addition, there is a strong correlation between ginger and improved metabolism, as well as a reduction in fat absorption, deeming its regulated use an effective tool to support natural weight loss.
5. Kind to your tummy
Simply put, ginger does wonders for your stomach. In addition to reducing nausea and an upset stomach – especially during pregnancy – gingerol, the natural component of ginger, supports your stomach’s gastrointestinal motility: the rate at which food exits the stomach and enters the digestive system, promoting efficient digestion (where food doesn’t linger).
6. Not just a supplement
Ginger is more than just a healing root – it is also a welcome addition to any meal and can be incorporated into any diet. Ginger root can be used to add flavour to anything from soups and stir-fries to your favourite curry dish. Additionally, ginger tea continues to garner appeal; versatile goodness that can be enjoyed hot or cold.
Conclusion
Ginger is a powerful root with numerous health benefits. Versatile in form, it is packed with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant compounds, with a number of potential benefits to positively support an individual’s overall health and wellbeing.
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