Zingiber officinale (Ginger), commonly present in every household, used as a spice or folk medicine. The rhizome of ginger plant has been used since years across the globe. Historically, it has been used to treat nausea, vomiting, rheumatism, baldness, respiratory diseases and bleeding disorders. Ginger contains many important vitamins and minerals. Ginger contains gingerol, a compound with potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that have been linked to many unique health benefits.
There is a saying in Ayurveda that everyone should eat fresh ginger just before lunch and dinner to enhance digestion as it not only stroke the digestive fire but it also controls the appetite, improves assimilation and transportation of nutrients to the targeted body cells, and clears the microcirculatory channels of the body.
Properties of Ginger:
1. Potency: Spicy
2. Taste: Bitter
3. Properties: Light, adhesive and thick
Medicinal Benefits & Uses of Ginger:
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Oil extracted from fresh ginger is used for many medical purposes.
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Ginger has high levels of antioxidants and has the ability to induce cell death and suppress certain protein. It is also said to be very effective against cancer.
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It Protects our liver and stomach.
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Ginger is widely used as an ingredient to cook herbal tea or green tea, everyday consumption of ginger tea helps to strengthen immunity.
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Ginger juice obtained from ginger roots is often used as a spice in several Indian dishes. Daily intake of 1 tsp ginger juice reduces the stickiness of blood platelets and hence reducing the chances of atherosclerosis.
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Dried Ginger powder/Saunth has anti-inflammatory properties and is commonly used in many dishes of different cuisines. Saunth/ Ginger Powder helps in relieving toothache, swelling and pain.
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Candied or crystallized ginger is a type of confectionery itself, if ginger is chewed in this form, it can reduce the gas formation and bloated stomach.
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Ginger, when used with honey is the best home remedy for a persistent cough and sore throat.
Precautions:
1. Ginger should be used carefully in pregnancy.
2. Ginger should not be taken with other medicines.
3. Don’t take ginger more than 4 gms per day.
4. Ginger should be avoided, in case of any kind of bleeding disorders.
