Ginger

Ginger is one of the most used and recognised spices around the globe, and it comes from the underground stem, which belongs to the Zingiberaceae family, also known as the ginger family. Ginger plays an essential role in traditional Ayurveda because of its medicinal properties, as it is rich in active constituents like gingerol, shogaols, zingiberene, and zingerone, making it a powerhouse of medicinal benefits. 

The ideal condition for harvesting ginger is when the temperature ranges between 18 and 25 degrees. It is grown best in the hot and humid conditions, specifically in the tropical rainforests. The states where ginger is grown abundantly are Kerala, West Bengal, and the northeastern parts.

Apart from its use in medicine, ginger is used as a spice in Indian cooking to add flavour to food. India is the largest producer of this versatile spice in the world.

The scientific name of Ginger is Zingiber officinale. 

• In Hindi, ginger is called adrak. 
• In Tamil and Telugu, ginger is known as “Inji” and “Allam,” respectively.
• In Bengal, people call ginger Ada, 
• Whereas in Gujarat, it is known as “Aadu.”

Ginger is called by different names in different parts of the Indian subcontinent. 

Ginger is rich in antioxidants and has anti-inflammatory and anti-microbial properties, making it a perfect ingredient for medicine and cooking.
The table below showcases the nutritional value of ginger root per 100 grams of serving:

Ginger is a powerhouse of active constituents such as gingerol, zingiberene, and zingerone, which makes it an essential ingredient for its usage in traditional Ayurvedic and modern medicine. Ginger contains components like Vitamin C, Vitamin B6, magnesium, potassium, copper, manganese, fibre, and water. It also contains other constituents like phytochemicals and polyphenols. 

Ginger has anti-inflammatory properties, which helps relieve the pain caused by gastrointestinal issues. Its carminative effects provide relief from stomach pain and alleviate nausea. The antioxidant properties help manage infection, remove toxins, and improve overall immunity.

The medicinal value of ginger makes it a versatile spice for its use in the preparation of different medicines that help treat various diseases and illnesses. Let us explore the health benefits of eating ginger.

1. Helps in weight management

The ginger medicinal uses also range from reducing weight to increasing metabolism. This is due to its anti-inflammatory properties, making it a potential ingredient for usage. You can consume it as herbal ginger tea or ginger water once or twice a day, as it effectively helps reduce weight.

2. Helps to manage high cholesterol levels

Ginger effectively lowers your body's bad cholesterol level by converting it into bile acids. It may also help remove blockage or plaque from the blood vessels, reducing the chances of heart attack. It also increases the level of good cholesterol in the body.

3. Useful in cardiovascular diseases

Ginger is proven to be a powerful component for people with heart disease. It helps to maintain blood sugar levels, reduces blood lipid levels, and improves circulation, which helps in improving overall heart health.

4. Used to support cancer therapy

Ginger contains a powerful compound called gingerol, which helps fight toxins and may slow down the growth of cancer cells; hence, ginger can be employed as a supportive agent in cancer therapy.

5. Useful in chronic osteoarthritis

The medicinal properties of ginger make it useful for managing chronic joint pains and degenerative tissues. Its anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties help manage pain and swelling if you suffer from chronic osteoarthritis.

6. Helps to ease menstrual pain

Ginger is known for being analgesic and antispasmodic, efficiently curing the cramps and muscle pain caused during menstruation. Consuming herbal ginger tea during the menstrual cycle helps to reduce the pain.

7. Helps in the management of diabetes 

This versatile spice is efficient in managing diabetes. Consuming ginger water or dry ginger benefits by regulating the insulin level and lowering blood sugar levels. The antioxidant properties of ginger may help in reducing insulin resistance.

8. Helps with nausea and vomiting 

After the surgery, there are instances in which people suffer from postoperative nausea and vomiting. Consuming ginger juice can help reduce these symptoms. The benefits of raw ginger juice are that it helps digestion and eases vomiting and nausea due to its antiemetic effects.

There are numerous uses for ginger because of its strong flavour and healing properties, which give a rich taste to food and add nutrition to it. Apart from its use in different foods and cuisines, the medicinal properties of ginger make it one of the most valuable spices.

Some common uses of ginger are as follows:

1. Used as a spice in cooking

Ginger is used as a common spice to prepare many dishes because of the strong flavour it adds to food. It is used in the preparation of gingerbreads, cakes, and cookies. It is used to prepare beverages like ginger beer and herbal tea.

2. Used for home remedies

Ginger is the star ingredient of every household because ginger benefits overall health and boosts immunity. It is used to prepare herbal tea or ginger water as a home remedy. The ginger hot water benefits the throat and helps manage cough, cold, and sore throat.

Ginger is known for its medicinal properties; however, it is important to consume it in moderation or according to the recommended dosage. It is also advised to consult your healthcare provider if you are on some specific medications.

Some precautions to take while consuming ginger are:

• Causes stomach distress: Consuming too much ginger or ginger juice can cause stomach aches and nausea. The antioxidants in ginger react, increasing the acid level and causing gastrointestinal issues if not taken in moderate amounts.
• Reacts with Diabetes medication: If you are on allopathic medication for balancing your diabetes, you may avoid the intake of ginger-containing supplements as it might enhance the function and lower the blood sugar level to the extent it is fatal.
• Pregnancy: It is advised to take ginger in moderation during pregnancy, as it causes uterine discharge and might react with other medications if taken in excess. 

Ginger is a multifaceted spice and can be used in different forms. It adds flavour to your food and increases its nutritional value.

You can use ginger in the following ways:

Ginger Tea

You can consume ginger by adding it to your tea.

Steps to use:

• Take 2-3 slices of fresh ginger.
• Boil the ginger slices in 2-3 cups of water.
• You can add jaggery or honey and lemon for additional flavour.
• Strain the tea and consume it.

Ginger Milk

Ginger milk benefits overall health and provides instant relief from digestion, nausea, cough, and cold. 

Steps to use:

• Grate 1 inch of fresh ginger to extract the juice.
• Then boil 1 cup of milk until it’s warm.
• Add the ginger juice to the warm milk.
• You can add a sweetener like honey, maple syrup, etc.
• Stir and drink it for various health benefits.

Ginger powder

You can use ginger in the form of powder. It is usually used to improve skin health, add flavours to your dishes, etc.

Steps to use:

• Peel and wash the fresh ginger.
• Dry the ginger until it is dehydrated.
• Grind the dried ginger into fine powder
• Store it in an airtight container to prevent it from getting mushy.
• You can add it to smoothies, soup, etc, and see the ginger benefits for skin. 

Ginger supplements

If you don’t like the bitter taste of ginger, you can take it in the form of tablets or capsules.

Steps to use:

• Take 1-2 capsules of ginger.
• You can take it in the morning after breakfast or evening to boost your immunity.
• Consider taking advice from your physician if you are on some specific medication.

The recommended dosage of Ginger is as follows:

• For fresh ginger, you can consume 1-3 grams per day.
• 2-3 spoons of ginger powder with hot water once or twice daily.
• You can have 1-2 capsules of ginger supplements once or twice a day.
• The recommended dose of ginger to manage nausea is 1 gram.

Ginger is packed with many different nutrients. However, you should consult your healthcare provider if you are on some specific medication, as it might interact with drugs and cause other problems.

• If you are on medication to lower your blood sugar level, it is advised not to consume ginger in excess dosage as ginger can lower your blood sugar level to a large extent.
• Ginger has some blood thinning properties, so if you are on allopathic medication for blood thinning, it is advisable to consult a doctor before consuming ginger-containing supplements, as it might enhance the ongoing medication.
• If you have some specific medication for your liver, consult a doctor before consuming ginger, as it might disturb the natural oxidative process of the body.

• Health benefits: Ginger helps maintain good gut health, improve digestion, enhance cardiovascular function, relieve menstrual pain, and support immunity and overall health.
• Forms: It is available in the form of ginger tea, ginger supplements, and ginger powder; you can even consume fresh ginger.
• Precautions: If you are on some allopathic medication, avoid the consumption of ginger. Consult your doctor if you are suffering from diabetes or taking blood thinner medication.

Conclusion

Ginger is a time-honoured spice with deep roots in Indian cuisine and traditional medicine. Valued for its distinct flavour and wide range of health benefits, it is used to aid digestion, reduce inflammation, and treat common ailments like colds and nausea. As a member of the Zingiberaceae family, ginger shares its medicinal strength with turmeric and cardamom. Grown mainly in Kerala, West Bengal, and the Northeastern region, India leads global production. Whether used in daily cooking or therapeutic remedies, ginger continues to be an essential and powerful part of holistic wellness.