Whole body protection
Ginger is most popular for nausea and stomach upsets, but there is evidence of many other benefits. For example, it can:
* Short-circuit migraines Danish researcher report that a 1/3 teaspoon of fresh or powdered ginger, taken at the first sign of migraine, may reduce symptoms by blocking prostaglandins, chemicals that cause inflammation in blood vessels in the brain. Unlike aspirin and related drugs, ginger blocks only the types of prostaglandins that cause inflammation, not the ones that have beneficial roles, such as strengthening the stomach lining.
* Ease arthritis pain The same prostaglandins that contribute to migraine pain also cause joint swelling in people with rheumatoid arthritis or osteoarthritis. A study of 56 people found that ginger eased symptoms in 55 per cent of people with osteoarthritis and 74 per cent of those with rheumatoid arthritis. Repeatedly applying crushed root ginger to the skin may provide additional relief by depleting stores of substance P.a. neurotransmitter that carries pain signals to the spinal cord and, ultimately, the brain.
* Reduce blood clots Doctors often advise patients to take aspirin every other day because it ‘thins’ the blood by interfering with the action of platelets, cell-like structures that cause blood clots and increase the risk of heart attack. Ginger has similar effects but without the stomach upset often caused by aspirin (unless, of course, your stomach is sensitive to ginger or you eat too much of it).
* Take the stuffiness out of colds Ginger can block the body’s production of substances that contribute to bronchial construction, as well as fever. The gingerols in ginger also act as natural cough suppressants.
* Lower cholesterol Laboratory studies suggest that ginger reduces the absorption of cholesterol by the body and also promotes its excretion.
* Relieve menstrual pain Chemical compounds in ginger act as antispasmodics. They inhibit painful contractions of the uterus, as well as the smooth muscles of the digestive tract.
