The Chinese and Indians have used ginger tonics to treat ailments for over 4,700 years and it was a priceless commodity during the roman Empire trade around the coming of Christ because of its medicinal properties.
So, what makes ginger so good for us? In one word: Gingerol.
Of the 115 different chemical components found in ginger root, the therapeutic benefits come from gingerols, the oily resin from the root that is a highly potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agent. These bioactive ingredients, especially gingerol, have been thoroughly evaluated clinically, and the research backs up why you should use ginger on a regular basis.
The health benefits from ginger are numerous and include nausea relief, digestive support, can help heal ulcers, boosts immunity, improves diabetes, anti-fungal, reduces pain, fights cancer, helps with weight loss, effective on both tension & sinus headaches as well. It is also a powerful anti-inflammatory and can help relieve pain & stiffness of arthritis and more.
Studies have also shown that ginger extract may be an even more effective anti-cancer agent than chemotherapy drugs, killing cancerous cells while leaving healthy ones untouched. It's anti-inflammatory properties might also help prevent the progression of precancerous cells to cancer. This incredible super food/herb is 13th on the anti-oxidant list boasting an impressive ORAC score of 28,811. Ginger is composed of several volatile oils that give it it's characteristic flavor and odor: zingerone, shogaols & gingerols. These oils are powerful anti-bacterial, anti-viral, anti-fungal & anti-parasitic agents. In addition, it inhibits cancer cell formation while firing up our body's own inborn ability to destroy the cancer cells which are already present.
Ginger is also very high in potassium which aids in electrical energy production & detoxification. It is a great source of manganese which protects the lining of the heart, blood vessels and urinary tract. Ginger contains silicon which enhances skin, hair, teeth & nails. It helps assimilate calcium and reduces inflammation in the bone tissue aiding the development of strong bones and teeth.
Ginger is classified as a carminative (reducing intestinal gas)_ and an intestinal spasmolytic (soothes intestinal tract). Ginger is known to reduce fever related nausea, motion sickness and feelings of "morning sickness". Additionally, it helps aid in the production of bile, making it particularly helpful in digesting fats.
You can use it in any of it's numerous forms...raw, essential oil or powder...they all work great!!