Benefits of Ginger Root
Ginger Health Benefits
(To go straight to benefits of ginger root, scroll down)
Ginger root plant grows in the south of China, India, Southeast Asia, West Africa, and the Caribbean. In fact, Jamaica is a leading producer.
Ginger is related to the tumeric and marjoram families.
It produces bunches of white and pink buds that bloom into yellow flowers. It's often used in landscaping in subtropical climes. Ginger root has historically been used to treat inflammation and aches. Although you may know ginger better from it’s other uses---spice, cookies, candy, crackers, and ginger ale. Yum.
Ginger Health
If you ever felt like puking, you probably already know about the power of ginger ale to stop it. Ginger is the natural answer to motion sickness and nausea. Studies have found ginger to be more effective at neutralizing stomach acids than pharmaceutical drugs. It's been a trusted "stomach settler" for generations.
In China, women traditionally take ginger root during pregnancy to combat morning sickness. However, the medical establishment in the US recommends against taking ginger while pregnant or nursing. NOTE: There is no evidence that ginger is harmful during pregnancy. Other lesser known benefits of ginger root include:
- relieves rheumatoid and osteoarthritis pain
- cleanses the colon
- stimulates blood circulation
- lowers cholesterol
- reduces blood clotting
- strong antioxidant properties
Herbalists prescribe ginger to help treat arthritis, fever, headaches, hot flashes, and indigestion. The strong-smelling compound gingerol, found in the ginger medicinal plant, has a similar structure to aspirin.
Side Effects of Ginger
Ginger root has no known side effects, although there are a few precautions you should take. Ginger is Not Recommended If... - You take an anticoagulant. (ex. coumadin).
You have gallstones.
Check with your doctor about possible drug interactions as well.
Ginger in a Supplement
Herbs come in many forms, but standardized extracts are the most potent. Extracts highly concentrate the active ingredients of an herb. Ginger extract should be standardized to contain 5 percent gingerols. Look closely at the label.
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