Ginger is a perennial plant that originates in Asia, specifically in India and China. In Chinese traditional medicine, ginger has been considered to be a significant herbal medicine since the ancient times. Ginger is claimed to be one of the earliest spices known in the west side of the world. The plant has an upright, smooth and leafy stem that can grow up to one meter high. The corolla lobes are usually green to yellow in color which is less than two centimeters long. The parts of this plant which is typically utilized for cooking, baking and medicinal purposes are the leaves and the roots. The common preparations ginger are fresh or dried edible roots, pills, capsules, tinctures and teas.

One of the most biologically active compounds of ginger which are found specifically in the roots is the phenolic group known as gingerols and shogaols. Shogaols is also the chemical which gives off the pungent taste of ginger.

In Asian ancient medicine, ginger is primarily utilized to alleviate digestive problems such as stomach aches, nausea, vomiting, indigestion, gas pains and diarrhea. It is highly effective as a digestive aid by enhancing the production of digestive fluids and saliva. Ginger has also been reported to relieve nausea post – surgically and those associated with motion sickness, chemotherapeutic drugs and pregnancy.

Another health benefit of ginger is that it helps alleviate pain and decrease inflammation. It has a powerful anti – inflammatory effect especially on those associated with rheumatism, arthritis and muscle cramping. Studies show that this anti – inflammatory property of ginger can be accounted for its ability to greatly improve blood circulation on the affected area.

Ginger also has a potent antioxidant property. It removes toxins from the body and facilitates in the cleansing of the kidneys and intestines. Antioxidant is very important to the body because it eliminates free radicals which can cause harm to the cells. Free radicals can cause abnormal development of cells by tampering DNA replication during cellular division. Ginger is helpful as an antioxidant.

Ginger is also useful in treating respiratory conditions including pneumonia, asthma and bronchitis. It is beneficial in loosening and expectorating secretions from the lungs and respiratory tract. Ginger can also be utilized as treatment for fevers. It increases perspiration thus facilitating reduction of body heat by way of sweat evaporation.

Ginger can be consumed in the form of teas. Just boil a cup of water and then add one teaspoon of baked rice and a little slice of ginger root. Let the mixture boil for a minute and let it cool until ready to drink. Ginger may also be made into lozenges. To prepare, wash and peel ginger root first then chop into small slices. Air – dry for 24 hours or oven – dry for a short span of time. Once dried, grind a cup of it and mix with a cup of sugar. Pulverize further while adding water until a pulp is formed. Form this pulp into balls and wrap using aluminum foil. Take one when the condition requires.

Ginger is a spicy herb that can help you fight inflammation. Look for ginger at your local or internet vitamin store. always choose name brands like Solaray to ensure quality and purity of the ginger product you buy to help combat inflammation.

Author Bio: Fight back against inflammation with ginger root. VitaNet ®, LLC Vitamin Store. http://vitanetonline.com/

Category: Wellness, Fitness and Diet
Keywords: Ginger root, Fight inflammation, Fight Pain