This common root has been an important ingredient in Asian cuisine, especially south Asian. It has also been an indispensable part of traditional medicine for ages. It is used to flavor food or eaten directly. An extract of ginger contains gingerols, which gives out the distinct smell of ginger. It is this part that we shall concentrate on. Ginger has amazing healing properties and is used to stimulate circulation and to bring relief from burns. This medicinal root is super rich in nutrients and has loads of minerals like copper, magnesium, potassium and manganese. You do not have to take ginger if you do not want to. Ginger water is just as potent and effective as taking the root itself.
Ginger water or ginger tea, if you will, is a simple concoction made by boiling fresh ginger roots in water and then cooling and straining it. For taste, you can always opt for adding honey and lemon juice.
Kidney problems, arthritis, allergies or cold? You can count on ginger to help you. It can also block chemical messages from the immune system and inhibit formations of inflammatory cytokines. It can even give powerful antibiotics a run for the money.
Good For Digestion
One glass is all it takes to give extra strength to your digestive system. It eliminates excess gas from the digestive system and brings relief to the intestines. Carminative present in ginger helps in that.
Nausea
A dash of mint and lemon juice and some honey added to ginger water is great for morning sickness, especially during the early stages of pregnancy. It also reduces normal dizziness and nausea.
Anti-Inflammatory
Ginger is a strong anti-inflammatory agent. The compound called gingerols present in ginger is a potent pain-relieving agent. It helps with the pain associated with various forms of arthritis and muscular discomfort. It significantly reduces swelling in the knees. Studies have found that they are as effective as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs but minus the side effects.
Cancer Prevention And Cure
The same compound, gingerols also prevents the growth of colorectal cancer cells. It also induces cell destruction in ovarian cancer cells. Liberal use of ginger or its extracts as a preventive measure is highly effective against this form of cancer.
Weight Loss
It helps you lose weight by increasing your body temperature and thus boosts the rate of metabolism. It also increases the levels of leptin in your body. Leptin is a compound that keeps you feeling satisfied and full after a meal. It thus suppresses your urge to overeat. It also suppresses cortisol production that contributes to belly fat.
The Recipe Of Ginger Water
It is easy making this delicious and energizing drink. You should have it twice or thrice a day for maximum benefit.
You will need:
- A cup of chopped and peeled ginger.
- Two and a half cups of water
- A bit of fresh lemon juice
- Honey to taste
Boil the water in a pan and add the ginger after turning off the heat. Cover it for 20 minutes. This prevents the medicinal compounds and oils from escaping. Strain the concoction and add the lemon juice and honey after it cools down. Keep it in a flask and enjoy this delicious and beneficial drink.
It is better to use fresh ginger than to use the dried variety for better results. Have this recipe and get your best health.
