15 Proven Health Benefits Of Ginger You Should Know

Helps with OA or Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis is one of the most common types of arthritis that affects millions of people around the world. It happens as the cartilage that protects and cushions our bones wear down as we age. They primarily affect joints in our hips, spine, knees, and hands—people suffering from osteoarthritis experience severe pain and stiffness.

Ginger is used as a natural remedy for osteoarthritis. People who used ginger to treat OA reported a significant decrease in discomfort and pain. This result was made possible by ginger’s anti-inflammatory properties. Ginger extracts were also reported to alleviate patients’ pain after knee surgeries.

Aside from taking ginger as food, beverage, or supplement, you can also try massaging sore muscles or affected areas with ginger gel, oil, or cream. Generally, concentrated forms yield the best results. If you opt for ginger supplements, ensure you do not take them on an empty stomach. Ingesting concentrated ginger without eating anything first can lead to stomachaches and other gastric problems. On the other hand, if you choose to apply ginger gel, cream, or oil, do an allergy test first to avoid skin irritation.