6 Reasons Ginger is a Super Herb
As a superstar in traditional medicine, ginger is not only a key ingredient in Qi Alchemy’s Herbal Pearls, but also a great spice to always have stocked in your pantry. It not only adds terrific flavor to recipes but it’s also full of medicinal properties. Ginger is loaded with antioxidants and is commonly used to help relieve an upset stomach, treat the common cold, aid in digestion and decrease inflammation, making it a popular ingredient in herbal remedies. In recent studies, ginger has also been linked to reducing blood sugar and increasing cognitive function, adding to the versatility of ginger. Here are 6 reasons to always have ginger on hand.
1. Soothes an Upset Stomach
The enzymes found in ginger help aid in digestion and relieve constipation. These enzymes help stimulate digestion and bowel movement. Similarly, these enzymes also assist the body in breaking down and releasing gas, which alleviates pain and discomfort. Ginger has also been found to help reduce intestinal cramping and bloating.
2. Relieves Nausea and Morning Sickness
Ginger is a common go-to remedy because it really works. Clinical studies have found ginger is effective in reducing nausea during pregnancy with no visible side effects.
3. Treats Inflammation
The main active ingredient of ginger is gingerol, which is a bioactive compound that has strong anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. The antioxidants and phytonutrients in ginger are incredible as they help reduce cell damage and prevent inflammation. Ginger can also help fight against arthritis and alleviate pain and discomfort caused by inflammation.
4. Alleviates Soreness and Pain
Similar to its ability in decreasing inflammation, ginger can also relieve sore muscles and joint pain. In a study, patients with osteoarthritis in their knees reported having less pain after taking ginger extract.
5. Reduces Blood Sugar
Ginger is a great substance if you’re looking to lower blood sugar. A 2015 study of 41 participants with type 2 diabetes saw an average 12% decrease in blood sugar after consuming 2 grams of ginger powder each day over 12 weeks.
6. Powers Cognitive Function
For a boost in brain power, ginger has also been found to help cognitive function. Research has found ginger can help improve reaction time and memory.
Learn more about ginger as an ingredient in our herbal pearls.
Written by Grace Maeda