Health Benefits of Ginger - The Golden Spice of South Asia
Ginger has a special place in the heart of an Indian. An integral part of our cooking, its unique sweet, spicy and slightly woody flavours lift up a dish and take it to an altogether different level of enjoyment. Ginger, also known as adrak, has a deep emotional connect for us and the thought of a cup of ginger tea, popularly known as ‘adrak wali chai,’ along with a plate of pakoras, brings out warm and happy memories in all of us. Without this golden spice, our favourite snacks would taste bland and boring. Furthermore, other than enhancing the taste of our dish, ginger also has amazing health benefits. Whether it is used in the food or brewed in a cup of tea, health benefits of ginger are undisputed
Here is everything that one needs to know about the medical benefits of ginger
1) Minimising inflammation
Osteoarthritis is a common chronic disease which is a result of wear and tear of the joints over the years. People who have this ailment are in a constant state of pain and stiffness and are heavily dependent on anti-inflammatory medications which have their own side effects. Adding ginger to our daily diet can help not only in easing the pain and discomfort but can also possibly aid in slowing down the progress of the disease if caught in time. With its anti-inflammatory compound gingerol, ginger helps to activate more white blood cells which protect the body from bacteria and viruses. As a result, there is a decrease in inflammation which gives relief from the unbearable pain.
2) Relieves muscle pain
Muscle pain is a normal condition for the gym freaks and athletes. Ginger’s antioxidant properties can help relax the muscles and ease the strain and pain. Two grams of ginger (powdered or juice) before and after the exercise routine can reduce the pain and help you become more active in your regime. So, don't take an off from your exercise routine in the name of pain. Instead, add ginger to your tea and ease those achy muscles.
3) Relief from cold & cough
Winter's worst enemies, cold and cough are always there to irritate us. One of the health benefits of ginger is that it is diaphoretic in nature, which means it can make one feel warm from within. Consuming ginger ‘kaadha’ or tea soothes cold and cough. So, rescue that clogged nose and raspy throat with ginger.
4) Soothes menstrual cramps
Ladies, say bye to those painkillers. It is time for you to invest in a natural ‘painkiller’. One cup of ginger tea has enough anti-inflammatory properties that can ease the pain of menstrual cramps.
5) Reduces the risk of diabetes
Of late, diabetes has become a chronic health issue. People suffering from this condition get used to daily tablets and insulin shots. By including ginger in our routine, one can bring a healthy alternative to keeping the blood sugar levels in check and boost the metabolism. It helps the pancreas to produce sufficient insulin that will allow the body to use sugar (glucose) from carbs optimally.
The goodness of ginger is not limited to adding taste to our food, but its benefits are rooted in improving our health as well. Be it a temporary state of inflammation or a chronic disease like diabetes, ginger comes to the rescue.