The ginger root with the intense peppery flavor is a valuable health food. The effects of ginger in our body are impressive.
Ginger derived from the East. It is widely used in Indian, Japanese and Chinese cuisine. The gingerol contained in it, gives a spicy aroma and a sweet, yet peppery flavor. Because of its beneficial properties, ginger is often used in alternative medicine, as well.
The important therapeutic and preventive effects of ginger make it a valuable medicine:
- it is considered an excellent relief of gastrointestinal problems. It’s antispasmodic and relieves intestinal bloating. It helps in good digestion and soothes the symptoms of stomach pain; also has antiemetic properties. (add 1 teaspoon grated ginger in one cup of tea).
- it can ease the symptoms of nausea due to chemotherapy, as well as, the morning sickness of women expecting a child.
- it helps treating food poisoning.
- it stimulates the body and soothes the symptoms of colds. It is a antipyretic and has antimicrobial activity. ( in a cup of hot water add 1 teaspoon ginger powder or grated fresh root, 2-3 drops of lemon and 1 teaspoon honey. Let it seat for 3-4 minutes, drain it and drink it).
- the consumption ginger beverages containing brown sugar is used in Chinese medicine to treat menstrual pain.
- ginger soothes the headache.
- a ginger beverage also helps relieve sore throat and nose. ( a teaspoon of ginger juice and some honey relieves intense cough.
- for sinusitis and stuffy nose: in a saucepan stir 1 cup water and 1 teaspoon ginger powder, let it boil and then take deep breaths over boiling water or dip a swab in the ginger liquid and then let the swab on your nose and forehead for a while. That helps to open sinuses and abort secretions.
- ginger lowers blood cholesterol and regulates blood sugar
- it contains chromium, magnesium and zinc, components necessary for the blood circulation throughout the body.
- it increases the temperature of the body and thus it accelerate the burning of calories. At the same time, it enhances satiety and thus prevents us to consume large amounts of food.
- as a powerful anti-inflammatory, ginger soothes muscle pain due to strenuous physical exercise.
- it also contains valuable antioxidants which combat preceding inflammation.
- has anti-cancer and immunomodulatory properties.
- in combination with bronchodilators, ginger helps in relaxing the muscles surrounding the airways of the body and relieve asthma.
In addition, ginger is particularly beneficial in skin care and hair:
- it contains about 40 antioxidant compounds that enhance anti-aging, removing toxins, stimulating circulation and preventing free radical damage of the skin. Moreover, it improves the elasticity of the skin.
- fresh ginger relieves the pain of a burn. Rub fresh ginger in a scar, 2-3 times a day for 6-12 weeks and you will see it heals greatly.
- as a powerful antiseptic and cleansing, ginger cleanses the skin from acne and pimples.
- it is a natural skin tonic.
- stimulates circulation to the scalp and helps in hair growth (use 1 tsp. grated ginger and1 tsp. jojoba oil as antidote to hair loss. Massage and let it stand for at least 30 minutes before rinsing with water and shampoo).
- used as a treatment for hair loss, split ends and dandruff shampoo (for dandruff: 2 tsp. grated fresh ginger, 3 tsp. sesame oil or olive oil and some lemon juice. Massage and rinse after 30 minutes. If you do the same three times a week, you will get rid of dandruff).
In the market you will find it in many forms. The most common are the fresh root and powder dried ginger can be found in supermarkets, spice and organic products. The essential oil, syrup, capsules and tincture can be found in selected pharmacies.
Still waiting to put ginger in your diet?
Sources:
http://www.stylecraze.com/articles/benefits-of-ginger-for-skin-hair-and-health/
http://www.vita.gr/diatrofi/eating-healthy/article/2082/piperoriza-se-ola-gia-ola/
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