Ginger — in the service of health and good taste
Ginger
Whether for colds or pain, nausea or migraine — ginger is versatile in its uses. India is the largest ginger producer, at approximately 1,100,000 tonnes. China, by contrast, is the largest exporter of ginger — it exports around 380,000 tonnes annually. In 2018 the so‑called miracle root ginger was named Medicinal Plant of the Year. Apparently it was the bioactive compounds it contains that led to this distinction.
No question: the many active substances have made ginger so popular. Traditional Chinese Medicine, also known as TCM, has used ginger for centuries. Indian medicine (Ayurveda) also makes extensive use of ginger.
Ginger — the natural analgesic
Ginger’s pungent compounds, gingerol and shogaol, are particularly noteworthy. Based on its composition, gingerol is similar to acetylsalicylic acid — the latter being used in painkillers. For this reason, ginger is often regarded as a natural aspirin. Its anti‑inflammatory, analgesic and expectorant effects are well documented. Ginger is also frequently consumed as a tea.
Ginger — for digestive problems and muscle tension
Ginger can also help with various digestive issues — for example cramps and flatulence. Ginger poultices, with their warming effect, have emerged as an interesting option. They are used for muscle tension as well as lumbago (acute low back pain). Only recently has modern conventional medicine begun researching ginger’s medicinal properties.
Ginger is also well known in the kitchen — its seasoning power, or rather its characteristic spicy to hot flavour with a fresh, lemony note, makes the root highly valued in the preparation of tasty dishes.
Effects of ginger on various complaints
You can safely use ginger for the following complaints. For cough and fever, infections, migraine, cramps, dislocations, rheumatic joint complaints (for example arthritis and osteoarthritis), digestive complaints (for example diarrhoea, constipation and a feeling of fullness) and bad breath.
Ginger is also often referred to as the „antibiotic of naturopathy.“ That already indicates where its strength lies — in the relief of various complaints.
Using ginger for nausea
The principal effect of ginger has proven to be the alleviation of nausea. Physicians consider that ginger can release gas from the gastrointestinal tract and thereby reduce pressure in the abdominal cavity.
Ginger against inflammation and pain
For millennia, ginger has established itself as an effective analgesic. Try it, for example, for joint inflammations, rheumatism, or headaches. It is no surprise that various studies have by now demonstrated ginger’s antibacterial, anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties. But that is not all: ginger also proves to be a very good alternative to painkillers such as acetylsalicylic acid (ASA) and diclofenac.
Combating colds with ginger
Ginger is particularly valued in winter for its warming effect. It is indeed a traditional medicinal plant that is often used for a runny nose. The contained pungent compounds apparently have an anti-inflammatory effect. Ginger tea in particular can not only effectively help prevent a cold, but also alleviate it. When preparing ginger tea pay attention to the following: it’s best not to peel the rhizome, because valuable constituents, such as vitamins, are found in the skin. Cut the ginger only at the “last minute”, i.e. immediately before bringing the tea to the boil, so that no active compounds are lost. Make sure the water is boiling hot. Let the tea steep for about five minutes.
Stimulating digestion with ginger
One of the most traditional uses of ginger is for the gastrointestinal tract. Try a piece of ginger for complaints such as stomach ache, bloating, colic, diarrhea, irritable bowel and loss of appetite. Ginger stimulates digestion and thereby makes food easier to tolerate. If you have a sensitive stomach, be cautious with the amount of ginger.
Relieving both muscle soreness and back pain with ginger
Did you overtrain during exercise — are your muscles and joints sore? If so, a ginger compress can help. Ginger not only provides warmth but also inhibits inflammation. How do you prepare ginger compresses? Cut the ginger into fairly small pieces, then pour water over them. Let the decoction steep for about fifteen minutes. Wait until the ginger water has cooled and is lukewarm. Soak a towel directly with the decoction, place it on the painful area and put a hot water bottle on top. Cover yourself — this will retain the heat. Now relax for about fifteen to twenty minutes.
CONCLUSION Ginger
Ginger is generally very healthy. Be cautious if you are sensitive to spiciness or consume larger quantities. In that case, unpleasant side effects may occur after consumption. These can include heartburn as well as flatulence. Ginger is said to have a choleretic effect. This means the body produces increased bile in response to ginger. Ginger is indeed very healthy. Normally five grams of ginger powder as well as fifty grams of fresh ginger per day are considered harmless. Overall, ginger proves to be a good and healthy choice — whether as a medicinal plant or simply as a spice. Even if the light-brown root appears visually inconspicuous, it is nonetheless very versatile in use – sustainable health and good taste included.