Ginger is an aromatic, pungent and spicy root that is delicious when used in cooking(or uncooking for your Raw-foodists out there) and is healthy and highly medicinal. Ginger root is the underground rhizome of the ginger plant. The flesh of the ginger rhizome can be yellow, white or red in color, depending on the variety. It is covered by a brownish skin that may either be thick or thin depending on whether the plant was harvested when it was young or mature. Ginger is an excellent source of potassium, magnesium, copper, manganese, and vitamin B6. It is incredibly diverse and can be used in savory dishes such as Asian stir fry’s, Indian curries, and salad dressings or it can be added to fruit salads, made into candies and used in sweet baked goods. Ginger is one of our favorite foods because it is absolutely delicious and incredibly healthy for you. Fortunately for all of us ginger can be found year round at the grocery store or local co-ops. Here are some of the amazing health benefits of this zesty root.
Reduces pain and inflammation- Ginger contains very potent anti-inflammatory compounds called gingerols. These substances are highly effective in reducing pain in individuals with osteparthritis or rheumatoid arthritis.
An Immunity Booster- Ginger can be taken for flu and cold prevention and treatment. Especially in cases of nausea, ginger has proven to be highly effective in treating morning sickness, motion sickness, sea sickness and food poisoning. Ginger tea is one of the best hangover remedies to sooth an upset stomach.
Gastrointestinal relief- In herbal medicine, ginger is regarded as an excellent carminative (a substance that promotes the elimination of intestinal gas) and intestinal spasmolytic (a substance that relaxes and soothes the intestinal tract).
Cancer Fighting-Gingerols the main active components in ginger have been found to inhibit the growth of colorectal cancer cells. Gingerols have also been found to induce cell death in Ovarian Cancer Cells.
A great way to consumer ginger on a regular basis is in delicious Ginger Lemon Honey Tea. Here is our favorite recipe:
Ingredients:
-1 inch piece of ginger, grated
-1 Tablespoon fresh lemon juice
-1 Tablespoon Raw unfiltered Honey
-8-12 oz hot water
Directions:
Place your water on the stove in a pot or tea kettle and bring to a boil. In a teapot or thermos add your hot water, ginger, honey and lemon juice. Allow to steep for 10 minutes. Strain into a tea cup and enjoy!
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