Ginger is a popular herb in the kitchen as well as the medicine cabinet. It has a long history of use in foods because it soothes the digestion. The essential oil, gingerol, aids digestion topically by increasing the release of digestive juices and regulating intestinal contractions. Ginger’s topical anti-nausea properties are due to the essential oil, shogaol. The best ginger supplement will be pure, natural and potent.
Exploring The Health Benefits of The Best Ginger Supplement Formats
Ginger has been clinically tested and shown to be as effective as many anti-nausea drugs. The big benefit of using ginger for nausea is that it does not cause drowsiness. It can be used for nausea from motion sickness, pregnancy, and more. Its anti-nausea benefits can be obtained by ingesting ginger supplements through capsules or chews or applied topically as an essential oil.
Ginger also has anti-inflammatory properties and can be used for muscle and joint injuries like athletic injuries and arthritis. A great way to reap these benefits is by mixing ginger oil with a carrier oil and applying it directly to the muscle or joint.
Historically ginger was also used topically as a wash for wounds and sores because it can prevent infection.
The Best Ginger Supplement Varieties
Ginger supplements are found as encapsulated herbs and tablets. Ginger products should be standardized as an assurance that some active ingredients are present. Ginger can be found in combination products for indigestion, motion sickness and inflammation.
Ginger Roots Health Benefits From A Culinary Perspective
Because of the active ingredients found in the root, ginger is considered a medicinal food. Chewing on raw ginger or ginger candy is often sufficient to decrease nausea. Ginger tea is also helpful for nausea and indigestion. Dried ground ginger which is used as a spice has less medicinal value because the essential oils are lost in the drying process.
Potential Side Effects & Cautions To Consider
Ginger, when used as a food, has very few side effects. Most side effects and cautions are relevant only when ginger supplements are used. Ginger has blood thinning and gallbladder-stimulating properties. Ginger supplements should be used with caution by individuals on blood thinning medication, including aspirin, and individuals with gallstones. For the same reason, ginger supplements should be discontinued before surgery or dental work.
