Health Benefits of Ginger

Ginger adds a certain zest and zing to your foods. It’s aromatic and spicy and is excellent with any type of dish, especially stir-fries. Fresh ginger root is not a seasonal herb, and therefore, is available year-round. Not only does ginger provide flavor to your foods, but it also has many health benefits. Here are some of them.

Anti-Inflammatory Benefits

Ginger has been used for medicinal purposes for many years. It is considered an Ayurvedic medicine in the south Asian continent. It contains compounds known as gingerol, which prevents anti-inflammatory conditions, such as, osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. Regular consumption of ginger, therefore, will decrease pain associated with these conditions and improve mobility.

Improves Blood Circulation

Circulation problems are common in the elderly. Ginger has the ability to thin the blood, and this makes it easy for the heart to pump blood reducing blood pressure and improving circulation. Improved blood circulation helps ease a number of ailments. However, if you are on any blood thinners, you should consult your doctor before taking this herb on a daily basis.

Relief from Motion Sickness

Ginger has a long history of being used as an antinausea herb. If you suffer from motion sickness, dizziness, vomiting, or cold sweats, this is the best herbal remedy to alleviate the discomfort. Make yourself a warm ginger tea and sip it slowly. You will start feeling the difference in a matter of minutes.

Aids Digestion and Prevents Flatulence

If you are having digestion problems, ginger can help. Ginger stimulates saliva, gastric juices, and bile. This aids indigestion. Phenolic compounds, found in ginger, especially gingerol have a beneficial effect on digestion. Have a small cup of ginger tea before mealtime, and another during meals to aid in digestion. Improved digestion reduces the buildup of intestinal gases which reduces bloating. No bloating means no flatulence.

Strengthens Immunity

If you wish to strengthen your immune system, consume a little bit of ginger a day. It prevents the risk of stroke by melting fatty deposits from the arteries and helps decrease bacterial infections in the stomach. Ginger also helps prevent coughs and colds, which you can expect come winter.

Although ginger has many benefits, it is important that you seek the advice of your doctor before taking it regularly. Ginger can have side effects and may react with any medications you may be taking.

This article is by ActiveAdultLiving.com®, the website for information on active adult communities in the US and Canada.