1. Inflammation
Ginger is a potent anti-inflammatory agent which can combat numerous illnesses. Inflammation is the significant underlying cause of many ailments and diseases and fighting it will surely wave away these diseases. Inflammation is but a normal body response to injury and must go away on its own. However, there are illnesses where inflammation becomes a constant predicament. Arthritis for example, is characterized by constant inflammation of the joints which causes tremendous pain and discomfort. Other diseases caused by inflammation are diverticulitis, cholecystitis, and inflammation of the colon. Inflammation of the colon leads to colon cancer and inhibiting it will prevent the emergence of cancer cells. Moreover, ginger inhibits the action of cyclooxygenase (COX) and 5-lipoxygenase (LOX) which are responsible in inflammation of the body.
2. Cancer
Due to the ingredients in ginger which are all proven to inhibit the proliferation of cancer cells as well as promote apoptosis like gingerol, curcumin and capsaicin, ginger is a very good chemopreventive herb to avoid the occurrence and progression of many types of cancer. Also, it was studied that ginger can actually inhibit the metastasis of cancer cells.
3. Antimicrobial
According to studies, ginger is an effective antibiotic to strains of Staphylococcus aureusand Escherichia coli. Furthermore, its active ingredient, gingerol is known to be an effective antimicrobial agent. It is also effective as an anti-fungal agent which can inhibit the growth of many forms of fungi.
4. Gastric problems
Over the years, since ancient times, ginger has been used as a treatment for an upset stomach. They say it warms the stomach and relieves dyspepsia. Sometimes, inflammation is still the culprit in many gastric illnesses. Ulcer and gastritis starts off with gastric juices damaging the mucous membranes of the stomach wherein inflammation starts to occur. Ginger works the similar way anti-inflammatory drugs do and it can at the same time reduce pain. It was also revealed that ginger has antispasmodic effects on the stomach which can relieve gastric and abdominal distress. In relation to gastric ulcers, ginger has antibacterial effects on H.pyloriwhich is the culprit and main cause of stomach ulcers.
5. Motion Sickness/Nausea and Vomiting
Since ancient times, ginger has been used as a remedy for motion sickness especially for travelers and explorers who go to voyages in the sea. Ginger acts both on the stomach and the brain to relieve motion sickness. Furthermore, pregnant women who experience morning sickness can use ginger to relieve symptoms of nausea and vomiting. Also, patients undergoing chemotherapy who has side effects of nausea and vomiting can use ginger to relieve the symptoms.
6. Antioxidant
Most of the chemical constituents of ginger are antioxidants and are potent in combating free radicals which cause cellular oxidative stress. Antioxidants protect the cells to resist damage of oxidation. Ginger can be an effective antioxidant that can promote a healthy well being and optimal functioning.
