Check out the Health Benefits of Ginger Water

MUMBAI: Ginger is the spicy and flavorful root of the flowering plant Zingiber officinale. Commonly used to season food, it also has a long history as a folk medicine treatment for many ailments. The origins of the plant are unknown, but it's most likely native to Southeast Asia. People in India and China have used ginger as a spice since ancient times. Traders took ginger to the Mediterranean, then Europe, and eventually the Americas.

Today, ginger is used in avariety of dishes and drinks around the world. You can eat the entire root, which is known as a rhizome. Ginger is easy to find in the produce section of grocery stores. You can also buy dried and ground ginger in the spices aisle. Pickled ginger is often served with sushi. The spice goes well with dishes that include pumpkin or squash. It's also the main flavoring ingredient in ginger ale and ginger beer.

Ginger is a concentrated source of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that can boost your overall health. It may have some specific benefits, too.

Nausea relief

Ginger has been used as a remedy for nausea and indigestion for centuries. Studies have shown this to be one folk remedy that actually works. Research suggests that consuming between 1 and 2 grams of ginger could help reduce symptoms of nausea and help with morning sickness, motion sickness, or side effects from chemotherapy.

Blood sugar management

Evidence shows ginger might help people with diabetes manage their blood sugar levels and reduce their need for insulin.

Help with heavy periods

A small study of high schoolers with heavy periods found that those who were given ginger had much less blood loss during their cycles than those who took placebos (pills with no active ingredients).

Pain relief

Ginger could help relieve some types of pain, including muscle soreness after exercise and menstrual cramps.

Inflammation reduction

There are many causes of inflammation, including mild allergic reactions and overexertion. Early studies on ginger have shown that it may help reduce inflammation from both these causes. One study showed that ginger extract may be as effective as medication in reducing allergy symptoms, though we need more research to confirm these findings. Some research suggests that ginger could reduce knee pain in some people, while others have found temporary knee pain relief is possible by applying ginger essential oil or gel topically after exertion. Ginger may also improve respiratory function, reducing symptoms of asthma.

Lower cholesterol

High levels of cholesterol are linked to an increased risk of health problems such as heart disease and stroke. Some studies suggest that adding ginger to your diet can help reduce cholesterol and triglycerides. This could lower your risk of heart problems and other cholesterol-related health issues. (Agencies)

Also Read: Ginger supplements can be beneficial in treating autoimmune diseases

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