May Relieve Asthma
Ginger has been used traditionally as a potential medicine to treat respiratory disorders. Recent studies have also seconded its potential anti-inflammatory property. Zerumbone, an active compound, may help relieve asthma. Research shows that allergic airway inflammation is majorly caused by Th2 dominance and the spicy root is successfully able to suppress it. [14] [15]
May Aid in Liver Protection
People suffering from tuberculosis can benefit from ginger, as it helps prevent hepatotoxicity. Animal studies show that it also protects against the liver-damaging cadmium poisoning caused due to the significant ingestion of cadmium. Its essential oil exerts a protective effect against the non-alcoholic fatty liver disease occurring because of obesity.
May Aid in Weight Loss
Animal studies show that ginger can aid in accelerating weight loss and managing obesity by helping boost your metabolism. It may increase exercise endurance capacity so that you work out well and get back into shape to fit in that outfit you were so excited to wear.
May Improve Cognition
Research suggests that ginger could delay the onset of neurodegenerative diseases like dementia, Parkinson’s, and Alzheimer’s by reducing oxidative stress and inflammation. According to a study published in Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine, ginger improved cognitive function in middle-aged healthy women. This shows that it can be used to improve cognitive decline among the elderly. [21] [22] [23]
May Relieve Muscle Pain
Ginger is well-known for reducing muscle pain and soreness caused due to exercising. The potentially anti-inflammatory properties of this root are to be credited for this benefit. The study points out that ‘daily consumption of raw and heat-treated ginger resulted in moderate-to-large reductions in muscle pain following exercise-induced muscle injury.’
May Help Manage Dysmenorrhea
Ginger may help reduce the levels of prostaglandins in the body, hence it aids in relieving cramps and other forms of discomfort and pain during menstruation. Scientists believe that high levels of prostaglandins contribute to increased menstrual cramps. These hormones function as chemical messengers are the key activators of symptoms such as cramps, pains, and fevers. According to a report published in ISRN Obstetrics and Gynecology, it can also help to reduce the severity of mood and behavior during PMS.
Might Boost Heart Health
Ginger may protect cardiovascular health by lowering LDL cholesterol levels and increasing HDL cholesterol levels. It may also reduce the risk of blood clotting, thereby helping regulate hypertension and keeping your heart healthy.
May Control Diabetes
Ginger may help regulate the blood sugar levels in people suffering from type 2 diabetes. Glycemic and lipid abnormalities lead to long-term complications in diabetics, as per a research study published in the International Journal of Endocrinology Metabolism in 2017. Therefore, to improve your insulin resistance and control diabetes, consider adding this root to your diet. Another study published in the journal Complementary Therapies in Medicine in 2014 demonstrated “daily consumption of 3 one-gram capsules of ginger powder for 8 weeks is useful for patients with type 2 diabetes.” [33] [34]
May Improve Dental Health
Ginger is known to inhibit bacterial, viral, and fungal infections, owing to the presence of gingerol in it. It may also help in maintaining oral health by killing the pathogens in the mouth and keeping the teeth and gums intact. Its potential antibacterial properties may help ward off pathogenic bacteria that cause urinary tract infection (UTI), bronchitis, and pneumonia.
May Alleviate Diarrhea
It has been used since ancient times to help with diarrhea since it may prevent stomach spasms and gas that contribute to and stimulate it. In China, the powdered form is given to those with diarrhea and this traditional practice is followed for thousands of years; scientists have concluded that these ancient treatments are indeed beneficial for this condition.
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