As the flu season rages on, our traditional rhizome called ginger could come in handy for some relief. It contains compounds like gingerol and shogaol, which have anti-viral and anti-inflammatory effects. Studies have found that ginger extract can inhibit the replication of the influenza virus. Additionally, ginger stimulates the immune system, which is vital to fight off infections. Dry ginger powder has been found to provide relief from flu symptoms in several patients.
Ginger has been used extensively for its medicinal properties since the Vedic period. It is believed to have originated in the tropical rainforests of southern Asia, including India and China, and was traded as a prized commodity along ancient spice routes to the Middle East. This is borne out by the numerous references of ginger in Ayurveda and ancient Chinese medicine texts for its versatility and numerous health benefits. But it is just as efficacious for our times, plagued as we are by chronic illnesses.
Cardiovascular health: Chronic inflammation has been linked to the development of atherosclerosis or clogging of heart vessels, which increases the risk of heart attacks and strokes. Ginger’s anti-inflammatory properties reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease by easing inflammation, improving blood flow, curbing platelet aggregation and widening blood vessels. Studies have shown that the anti-inflammatory properties in ginger work like non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs or NSAIDs. They inhibit the action of several genes involved in the inflammation process. In a placebo-controlled animal study, researchers gave both a low dose (50 mg/kg) and a high dose (500 mg/kg) of ginger extract to rats for four weeks. They found that rats given the higher dosage of ginger extract orally exhibited a statistically significant reduction in blood-clotting factors and cholesterol levels, as compared to the placebo group. They also had a reduction in inflammation markers. So, it has a cholesterol-lowering and blood thinning property. Studies at Cornell University point specifically to gingerols as preventing abnormal blood coagulation.
Diabetes and kidney health: Ginger’s anti-oxidative and anti-inflammatory qualities can prevent the development of both diabetes and kidney disease to some extent. Ginger supplementation has been found to improve markers of oxidative stress and inflammation in patients with Type 2 diabetes. Its extract can improve kidney function in rats with diabetic nephropathy, a type of kidney disease that occurs as a complication of diabetes. Researchers from the University of Sydney, Australia, found that gingerols – the active component of ginger – can increase uptake of glucose into muscle cells without using insulin, and helps in managing blood sugar levels. In the European Journal of Pharmacology (2009), researchers reported that two different ginger extracts, spissum and an oily extract, interact with serotonin receptors to reverse their effect on insulin secretion.Treatment with the extracts led to a 35 per cent drop in blood glucose levels and a 10 per cent increase in plasma insulin levels.
Gut health: The anti-inflammatory properties of ginger can resolve a variety of digestive symptoms, including nausea, vomitting and diarrhoea. Ginger can also increase the production of digestive juices and enzymes, aiding in better digestion and nutrient absorption.
When not to use ginger? It is essential to note that ginger can interact with certain medications, such as blood thinners, and should be avoided during pregnancy. In some individuals, ginger may also increase the risk of gall bladder contractions and should be avoided. It is crucial to consult a certified nutritionist before consuming ginger, especially if you have any medical conditions or are taking medications.
How to make a rejuvenating health drink with ginger?
There are many ways to increase consumption of ginger and one of the quickest ways is through a daily ginger juice shot or tea, either in the morning or at bedtime. Ginger is also an easy ingredient to incorporate into most recipes, from sweet to savouries.
Source: The Indian Express