Origin: History books are punctuated with the mention of Ginger. Ginger originated in Indian subcontinents to southern Asia. Soon, it was widely cultivated in other countries.
The Romans were the first to introduce Ginger in Europe. During the 16th century, the Spanish took this spice to West Indies, parts of South America and Europe. By the 1st century, traders had taken Ginger into the Mediterranean regions.
It has been used as a medicine in Indian and Chinese traditions for more than 2000 years ago.
Scientifically: Research shows that ginger contains gingerol, a substance with powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. This anti-inflammatory property of the spice reduces muscle pain and soreness. A study shows that ginger is effective in reducing pain and stiffness in osteoarthritis patients.
As per Ayurveda, ginger is sattvic food that calms and centers the mind. Ayurveda recognizes its medicinal properties and thus widely uses it. In Ayurveda, ginger is known as a vishwabhesaj or universal medicine. It builds the digestive fire and cleanses off un-metabolized food that is toxic in nature.
Ginger is warm in nature and thus enhances circulation, stimulates sweating, eliminates phlegm from lungs and aids in comfortable breathing. To purify blood, ginger and neem work like a made for each other combination. To clear the digestive tract, mix it with pepper. In case of gastrointestinal distress, use dried ginger powder. To fight to feel bloated, rub dried ginger powder on your stomach.
In 2015, a study of 41 participants with type 2 diabetes displayed that 2 grams of ginger powder per day lowered fasting blood sugar by 12%. There was also a reduction of 28% in the ApoB/ApoA-I ratio and a reduction of 23% in markers for oxidized lipoproteins which are major risk factors for cardiovascular diseases.
Ginger is also good for people suffering from chronic indigestion (dyspepsia) as it speeds up emptying of the stomach, which can be beneficial for people with stomach discomfort. Dysmenorrhea (menstrual pain) can be cured if women consume ginger at the beginning of their cycle.
Ginger contains a substance called 6-gingerol, which might be helpful in the treatment of cancer. As per a research published in the Journal of Cancer Management and Research 6-gingerol helps guard the body against free radicals and it also shoots up the antioxidant activity in the body.
Also, the antioxidants and bioactive compounds in ginger can inhibit inflammatory responses that occur in the brain and be effective against Alzheimer. Gingerol present in the spice can also fight various infections.
Ginger is extremely effective in bringing down the inflammation. It is believed to clear the internal channels. Ginger has a huge variety of antioxidants. Only pomegranate and berries have more antioxidants than ginger. It is loaded with vitamin C, polyphenols, beta-carotene and flavonoids. Since skin is a mirror of the internal body. Ginger ensures you have glowing skin.
Most skin problems such as acne, psoriasis, and eczema are inflammatory in nature. Ginger combats inflammation thus addressing most skin issues. For cool winter months, one should opt for fresh ginger as its heating. In contrast, dry ginger works wonders in the months of summer as its cooling by nature.
Ginger is gifted with the goodness of 40 antioxidant properties that fight radical damage and skin aging. It evens the skin and enhances elasticity. It is excellent for hair care as it contains vitamins, minerals, and fatty acids that strengthen strands. This wonderful spice diminishes the appearances of hypopigmented scars. It also helps in fighting dandruff.
The detoxifying and invigorating qualities of ginger make it perfect for reducing cellulite. Ginger can also undo the damage caused by excessive exposure to the sun. The natural tonner ginger cleanses and purifies the skin lending a radiant glow.
Usage: For centuries, Ginger has been used as a spice and condiment especially in Asian cuisine. Ginger and it's processed forms like- oil, powder, candy, pulp, bread, sticks, syrup, etc., are widely used in food processing, pharmaceuticals, beverages, meat canning, confectionary, soap making, tobacco processing, and what not. Its powdered form is widely used as a flavoring agent in salad dressings, tomato ketchup and sauce, pickles, gravies, meat sausages, and curry dishes. In India, ginger tea is pretty much famous and is consumed by almost everyone.
Ginger is also known to make skin radiant and using it can make your skin glow. Many women around the globe use various ginger DIY mask to get glowing skin.
Below are some DIYs with ginger for beautiful skin and hair:
- Take one spoon of Ginger Juice. Mix it with 1 spoon of rose water and 1 spoon of honey. Also, put some lemon juice drops into it. Apply it over your face. Wash it after 20 minutes to get a glowing skin.
- Take equal parts of ginger juice and jojoba oil. Mix them together and apply on the scalp. Massage it lightly. Leave it on for 40 minutes and then shampoo. This promotes hair growth.
- Add a tablespoon of grated ginger to some olive oil and massage into your scalp. Leave it on for 30 minutes and then shampoo as usual. This remedy helps in removing dandruff.
- Take 1/2 cup of sugar, ¼ cup of olive oil, 2 tablespoons of freshly grated ginger and mix them together. Apply this on the body and gently rub in a circular motion. This helps in improving blood circulation and removes cellulite.