Most of us love ginger best in a warm cup of tea on a cold morning. However, ginger does a whole lot than just adding a hint of flavour to your favourite beverage or dishes.
Here we list its lesser-known health benefits and why exactly it is an irreplaceable ingredient of a wholesome and nourishing winter diet:
Calming nausea
The World Health Organization has recognised the potential effectiveness of ginger in treating nausea (pregnancy, surgery, chemotherapy, travel sickness). Gingerol and who gaol contained in the plant reduce stomach movement with a calming effect.
Two studies reveal that an intake of 0.5g to 1.5g of ground ginger (in capsule form) could be effective in treating nausea and vomiting during pregnancy. Plus, a meta-analysis explains that 1g of ground ginger (in capsule form) could be more effective than a placebo for keeping nausea and vomiting at bay after surgery.
Improving digestion
Ginger is well known for its digestive virtues thanks to the active ingredient gingerol. This stimulates the production of bile and digestive enzymes.
Reducing muscle pain
Sports fans take note — ginger can help ease muscle pain. A study from the US, published in the Journal of Pain, found that taking 2g of ginger for 11 days reduced pain linked to physical exercise by 25%.
Warming the body
In traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), ginger is used for its warming effect since it is believed to “banish humidity.” Like most spices, ginger increases body temperature, which is ideal if you’re feeling the chill in winter of if you’re suffering from a cold.
Preventing colon cancer
Ginger has been found to play a preventative role in colon cancer thanks to its anti-inflammatory properties. Ginger supplements can help reduce inflammation in the colon, in turn potentially reducing the risk of colon cancer, according to an American study published in the journal Cancer Prevention Research.
Easing breathing
According to a study, published in 2013 by researchers at the USA’s Columbia University, ginger could help asthma patients breathe more easily thanks to its bronchodilator properties. Beneficial effects are thought to be linked to three components: gingerol 6, gingerol 8 and tho gaol.
Boosting libido
Some attribute ginger’s supposed aphrodisiac properties to its magnesium-rich rhizome. It's warming virtues and vasodilatory effects are thought to favour sexual function. However, this is yet to be validated by scientific research.
Ginger can be taken in different forms, such as capsules, ground ginger powder, herbal teas, fresh ginger, crystallised ginger or syrup. Around 1g to 2g of ground ginger powder is equivalent to around 10g of fresh ginger.
It is recommended to talk to your doctor before taking ginger, especially for anyone taking medication for a heart condition.