Ginger or Zingiber officinale is an example of a flowering plant native to Asia. It is a close relative of cardamom, galangal, and turmeric. Fresh ginger is sweet, spicy, and pungent, while processed ginger (powdered, grounded, heater, or cooked) is milder. Typically, people use ginger for cooking or preparing tea. However, you can enjoy ginger in many forms – tea, candy, ale, and even jello. In addition, it is sometimes used in cosmetics, essential oils, and creams.
In addition to being a favorite spice, ginger is also known for its array of health benefits. Ginger is loaded with active compounds like shogaols, gingerols, and paradols that work wonders in human health. In fact, ginger has been a significant part of traditional medicine since the 9th century. For thousands of years, people have used it as a treatment for nausea, migraines, colds, stomachaches, muscle pains, and other diseases.
This article talks about the health benefits of ginger that are supported by modern-day science and research.
Eases Nausea and Morning Sickness
Ginger is always marketed as a natural remedy for different types of nausea. The gingerol and shogaols present in fresh and dried ginger are the reasons why ginger can ease nausea- these compounds increase the speed of gastric emptying and digestive responsiveness. Ginger also has excellent anti-inflammatory properties, which are proven to support the secretion of hormones that regulate blood pressure. These hormones can send signals to your brain, causing your body to relax and reduce nausea.
Different studies have shown the effect of ginger in preventing and treating nausea caused by pregnancy, motion sickness, chemotherapy, surgical operations, and some gastrointestinal disorders. There are also different ways by which you can use ginger to alleviate nausea. For example, some people chew on fresh ginger, while others prefer candied, dried, pickled, or crystallized forms. You can also try ginger powder, extract, beverage, tea, or capsule.
No standard dosage is set for the use of ginger to alleviate nausea. However, most studies suggest limiting your intake to 1,000-1,5000 mg of ginger (in any form) per day. Higher doses do not guarantee more effects, and excessive intake of ginger may lead to different side effects.
