10 diseases that ginger can treat

What are the real benefits of ginger? It's easy to find many articles on the subject, but few rely on The aphrodisiac virtues that have made him famous around the world. However, it is much more than just a libido stimulant. Ginger has many benefits for our health. It is an ally in any season, and for many situations. Natural Force returns to the beneficial powers of ginger and presents through this article its therapeutic and medicinal properties out of the ordinary.

Ginger, what are its real properties?

For a long time, ginger has been consumed around the world in order to relieve common ailments, like nausea, headaches, colds or even rheumatism. Indeed, known to be an exceptional aphrodisiac, it is far from being reduced to a simple sexual stimulant. Ginger is a thousand-year-old plant that belongs to the Zingiberaceae family.

Its scientific name is Zingiber officinale. It is a tropical plant that is most often used as a spice in the cuisine of different countries. The part of the plant that is commonly eaten is the rhizome. Today, it is mainly produced in Asia, and more precisely in China, India, Malaysia, Vietnam and Thailand.

The composition of ginger

There is nothing magical about the powers of this Asian plant. It is its composition that makes it so interesting and is the source of its benefits. Indeed, ginger is 90% water, but it is also a food very rich in carbohydrates and fibre. In addition, there is an important source of vitamin B9, as well as vitamins C, E, A, B1, B2, B3, B5 and B6 in smaller quantities.

The rhizome of the plant is distinguished by its content of mineral salts and trace elements, such as calcium, iodine, magnesium, phosphorus, sodium, zinc and iron.

Ginger is known to be particularly rich in potassium and manganese. Finally, the rhizome also contains powerful antioxidant compounds, which give it some of its incredible powers.

The health benefits of ginger

Often compared to a spice, ginger is a food in its own right that is consumed in several forms. We often appreciate it for its taste and for what it brings to ready meals. But we often forget how precious it can be and the many health benefits it offers. Here are the different properties of ginger, an exceptional millenary plant, according to the various scientific studies carried out.

1. A powerful antioxidant

Ginger contains antioxidants, which are compounds that protect cells from the effects of free radicals. These are particularly reactive molecules. They are involved in the ageing of cells, and in the development of certain related diseases.

Two studies, the first conducted by Nakatani N. in 2000 and the second conducted by Kikuzaki H, Nakatani N. in 1996 confirm that ginger contains around forty - ( 2 ). Among them, some would resist the heat and be released during cooking. It is therefore beneficial to consume fresh or cooked ginger, but also in powder.

The active ingredients responsible for the pungent taste of the rhizome are (6) -gingerol and (10) -gingerol. They are known in particular for very important antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. In addition, science is currently examining its anti-cancer potential, especially in the treatment of the prostate.

2. A natural anti-inflammatory

A summary article written by Grzanna R, Lindmark L and Frondoza CG which lists the studies carried out on the plant allows demonstrating that ginger is a 100% natural and powerful anti-inflammatory. It limits the secretion of prostaglandins. This is how the inflammatory process can be reduced by consuming ginger.

The rhizome also relieves the ailments that are linked to these inflammations, such as pain related to arthritis, tendinitis or low back pain. Its effects are very promising to counter the pain associated with osteoarthritis as well as rheumatoid arthritis. The plant rhizome is said to be as effective as drugs such as ibuprofen, for example.

Ginger also has a powerful action on certain ailments such as influenza, fever and allergies. This Asian plant has the power to reduce our pain and help us better prevent it through regular consumption.

3. Promote better digestion

One of the many virtues of ginger is its power over our digestive system. It acts as a natural stimulant of our metabolism. Its rhizome acts on the production of enzymes involved in digestion and stimulates it. It promotes the secretion of bile. This property was highlighted in a review article listing all the studies conducted on this subject by Platel K, Srinivasan K. in 2004. Thus, the consumption of ginger will promote the process of digestion of food. But he is not satisfied with acting punctually on this function of the body.

By consuming it regularly, it is also possible to benefit from it by other organs of the digestive system such as the mouth, the oesophagus, the stomach, the small intestine and the colon. Finally, ginger is also known to be an excellent natural fat burner. By promoting digestion, it improves the breakdown of fat and stimulates our metabolism! People looking to lose weight can therefore also consume it.

4. Treat nausea and vomiting

The World Health Organization (WHO) has recognized ginger as a natural antiemetic component. This means it is effective against nausea and vomiting. It is therefore very practical for people who are prone to motion sickness or vomiting after surgery. In addition, it is also for pregnant women, many of whom experience this phenomenon at the start of their pregnancy! Its virtues are allowed by its content of gingerols and schools, the effects of which were highlighted by a study carried out in 2005 by Chrubasik S, Pittler MH and Roufogalis BD. In addition, you should know that ginger is an excellent source of vitamin B6 for pregnant women.

5. Help fight fatigue

As we mentioned at the beginning of the article, this food is rich in various vitamins. It is, therefore, a perfect natural stimulant for the body and its functions. But beyond its vitamin content, it is also an excellent source of mineral salts and trace elements! Ginger is perfect for giving you a boost in times of fatigue: it effectively fights against temporary fatigue.

But that's not all since it also provides great reinforcement to our natural defences. Thus, the Asian plant is a perfect ally of the immune system, especially in the face of various winter conditions!

6. Good for heart and cardiovascular functions

In a way, antioxidant foods are good for the heart. Ginger helps prevent cardiovascular disease due to its influence on blood circulation. Indeed, it thins the blood and thus promotes its transport through the body. It also helps detoxify the blood and thus the whole organism.

However, care must be taken not to over-consume it. Indeed, its fluidifying properties are very powerful. If you are undergoing treatment for blood-thinning problems, ask your doctor for advice before including ginger in your diet, or consuming it as annual cures.

7. A powerful ally in the face of diabetes

Recent scientific studies have shown a beneficial effect of regular consumption of ginger in people with type 2 diabetes. The extract of ginger would reduce the fasting blood sugar values ​​of these people, but also the haemoglobin values glycated. This food lowers blood sugar levels.

In addition, ginger would also improve insulin resistance in people with diabetes according to a study published in 2013 and published in Int J Food Sci Nutr (Effects of ginger (Zingiber officinale) on plasma glucose level, HbA1c and insulin sensitivity in type 2 diabetic patients).

8. A natural aphrodisiac

The plant has built part of its reputation on its natural aphrodisiac properties. Its root plays a beneficial role in the sexuality of men and women. It stimulates sexual appetite and desire and even increases pleasure during sex.

If you are having libido problems, here you will find a perfectly natural and very effective solution! For this purpose, you can also associate it with ginseng or maca from Peru.

Ginger and cancer

Science is trying to determine the exact effects of ginger on cancer. For the moment, we know that it is possible that it has anti-cancer properties. He has already managed to kill cancer cells in the ovaries. These properties are notably linked to the presence of natural antioxidants in its composition.

What you should know about ginger

How is it consumed? Why combine ginger and lemon? Is there candied ginger? If you need advice on how to consume more ginger every day, here are a few.

How to choose it?

Ginger can be eaten fresh. You will find fresh roots in supermarkets or in organic stores. Ideally, choose natural ginger from organic farming. Opt for golden ginger with slightly wrinkled and visibly fresh rhizomes. Its smell must be pleasant. Fresh ginger is cooked. It is grated or cut into thin strips to season various cooked dishes. And besides, there is no shortage of recipes! It can also be added to your fruit and vegetable juices.

If you opt for powdered ginger, prefer a spice from sustainable agriculture, and therefore organic. The rhizome must come from its regions of origin. Note that candied ginger can also come from organic farming. Prefer these products which are devoid of chemical treatments and pesticides. In addition, you can carry out ginger cures several times a year. It is found for this in the form of a food supplement to be ingested every day. Choose natural ginger, cultivated in its regions of origin and from organic farming. Follow the instructions on your bottle to fully enjoy the benefits of the plant.

Why combine ginger and lemon?

Ginger can be consumed in the form of a spice, and therefore in powder form, to be added to culinary preparations. In powder, it can be incorporated into a lemon-based drink, to take advantage of the benefits of the famous ginger-lemon combination.

This drink with incredible virtues can then be consumed as part of a cure or simply for its unique taste! Ginger and lemon are important allies when you want to lose weight, for example. The virtues of ginger and lemon also relate to the immune system, the skin and digestion.

Consumed alone or combined in water with ginger and lemon, these two elements offer depurative properties that cleanse the blood and the body. Know that it is possible to combine ginger and lemon in a tea (or infusion), as well as in lemonade. Ginger and lemon can also be found on your plate in an original and tasty salad dressing recipe! Just add drops of lemon, as well as a ginger powder (or thin strips) to your dressing to enjoy the associated benefits of these two foods.

How else to consume it?

Fresh, powder or candied: How to choose the rhizome well?

Ginger is therefore in powder, but it can also be bought fresh, in the rhizome, from which it is necessary to cut fine strips to integrate them into certain recipes. It is in these two ways that he comes to flavour our dishes and offer them that special taste. If you appreciate Japanese cuisine, you have probably already tasted pickled ginger which very often goes well with sushi. If you've never dared to taste these little pink strips with such a special smell, go for it!

You can also consume candied ginger, like traditional candied fruit. You can then find candied ginger commercially, or prepare it yourself from fresh ginger. You will then discover the rhizome in a new light. Finally, ginger can also be consumed in tablets or capsules, and therefore as a food supplement. In this case, care must be taken to choose a high-quality product: find out where it comes from, how it is grown and the transformation process.

How to store ginger?

It is possible to keep a fresh ginger root in the refrigerator. A little tip: cut it into cubes and place it in the freezer to keep it even longer. You just need to take out a piece of ginger the day before using it to enjoy the optimal freshness. You can also save money and avoid throwing pieces of ginger!

Candied ginger has the advantage of being preserved for a long time, and to be easily consumed. Powdered, it can also be stored for months and even years. In addition, know that food supplements based on ginger also keep for a long time.

A deadline is however always present on your bottle. You always have time to finish your cure before the product expires. If your bottle is old, just remember to check the expiry date before starting or resuming your treatment.

What contraindications or precautions to take?

Ginger is a completely natural plant. Its properties are powerful, and some suggest that the food should not be consumed with certain supplements, plants and drugs (it increases their effects). Therefore, it is advisable not to combine ginger with blood treatments or before surgery. It must also be consumed in reasonable quantities.

Ginger is not advised during pregnancy, due to the fact that it could be associated with certain complications and even miscarriages. Always consult your doctor's advice before taking supplements and to use it for morning sickness. There is still insufficient scientific data to conclude that consumption of ginger is safe while breastfeeding.

Furthermore, ginger is often confused with ginseng. These two words have the same root, which is "gin" and means "man" in the Chinese language.

They are also two roots, which misleads many people. They are indeed two distinct plants, with very different virtues on the organism, which can be interesting to associate within the framework of cures or simply in our diet.

What you must remember

Ginger is a healthy, natural food with many benefits. It acts on our digestion, our libido, and more generally, on our health. Consumed regularly, it helps us to cope with fatigue and seasonal ailments.

You can combine ginger and lemon, or consume candied ginger to take advantage of its virtues. Thus, it is interesting to consume it occasionally, but also in the form of cures to enjoy all of its benefits on the body!