The health benefits of ginger

A 2009 study funded by the National Cancer Institute found patients who consumed ginger had significantly reduced nausea following chemotherapy. A separate study found ginger more effective than the anti-nausea drug Dramamine in blocking motion sickness.

Studies at the University of Singapore have shown that ginger may be a cell modulator in cancer cells. Shogaols, a constituent found in ginger, exhibit potential in suppressing cancer cell invasion and inflammation in breast carcinoma cells.

Studies at Cornell University revealed that gingerols, an active ingredient in ginger, prevent abnormal blood coagulation, which improves circulation and guards against heart attacks. While improving circulation, ginger reduces blood cholesterol levels by improving liver function.

Called “The Great Medicine” by ancient Indian vaids, ginger has been shown to improve gastric mobility (i.e. it helps push food and waste through the digestive system) and hinders the absorption of cholesterol.

Fresh ginger is known to have strong antiviral properties, which can help to tackle cold and flu viruses. The other properties ginger has for soothing the throat, relieving aches and pains and settling the stomach can help to lessen the symptoms of colds and flus.

A study published in Psychotherapy Research showed ginger to be equally as effective as prescription drug Sumatriptan at preventing the onset of migraines and reducing their severity. Ginger has the added benefit of having no serious or frequent side effects associated with its use medicinally.

Ginger contains anti-inflammatory compounds believed to soothe joint and muscle pain and, according to research by the University of Maryland, evidence has shown that ginger may help reduce pain from osteoarthritis.

Ginger has been used in Eastern medicine as a libido stimulant for centuries. It is thought that libido is improved thanks to ginger’s effects on improving circulation and blood flow and increasing energy levels.

Ginger has strong antioxidant properties, helping to promote longevity by protecting cells from damaging ‘free radicals’, which can cause disease.

Ginger has many digestive benefits and is used by many cultures for the relief of flatulence.