Health benefits of ginger

Rose May Pimentel in Health

Jul 12, 2020 • 2 min Read

Ginger or ‘luya’ is one of the healthiest spices on the planet, according to Healthline.  It has been used in traditional medicine for centuries throughout the world.  In the Philippines, it is a popular natural remedy for cough, colds, and stomach issues.

Ginger is a flowering plant that originated in China. It can be used as fresh, dried, powdered, and as an oil or juice. It is also a very common ingredient in recipes such as Pinoys’ favorite ‘tinola’.

Below are the many proven amazing health benefits of the superfood ginger from Healthline:

1. Ginger is high in gingerol, a substance with powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

2. Ginger can help prevent various types of nausea. This applies to seasickness, chemotherapy-related nausea, nausea after surgery, and morning sickness.

3. Studies show ginger is effective at reducing symptoms of osteoarthritis, a very common health problem that involves degeneration of the joints in the body, leading to symptoms like joint pain and stiffness.

4. Ginger has been shown to lower blood sugar levels and improve various heart disease risk factors in patients with type 2 diabetes.

5. Ginger appears to speed up emptying of the stomach, which can be beneficial for people with indigestion and related stomach discomfort.

6. Ginger appears to be very effective against menstrual pain when taken at the beginning of the menstrual period.

7. Ginger can lead to significant reductions in LDL (bad) cholesterol and blood triglyceride levels.

8. Ginger contains a substance called 6-gingerol, which may have protective effects against cancer.

9. Studies suggest that ginger can protect against age-related damage to the brain. It can also improve brain function in elderly women.

10. Ginger may fight harmful bacteria, as well as the RSV virus (a common cause of respiratory infections), which could reduce your risk of infections.

Indeed, ginger is considered a superfood for its numerous powerful health benefits. The easiest way to consume ginger is to make it into tea. Start sipping now a ginger tea then sit back with a warm mug, breathe in and enjoy its health benefits.