Ginger root
Last reviewed: 30.04.2024
All iLive content is medically reviewed or fact checked to ensure as much factual accuracy as possible.
We have strict sourcing guidelines and only link to reputable media sites, academic research institutions and, whenever possible, medically peer reviewed studies. Note that the numbers in parentheses ([1], [2], etc.) are clickable links to these studies.
If you feel that any of our content is inaccurate, out-of-date, or otherwise questionable, please select it and press Ctrl + Enter.
The root of ginger is tropical spice, which is used in cosmetology, food and even in medicine. We offer you useful information about the root of ginger its beneficial properties, useful recipes and methods of application.
Ginger grows in Central America, India and Japan and is a tropical perennial herbaceous plant. Ginger as a spice was used three thousand years ago, it struck with its unusual taste characteristics and healing properties. And in the system of ancient medicine, that is, ayurveda, ginger was considered a universal therapeutic plant.
Ginger is popular in our time. The plant helps in the treatment of a number of diseases and is used as a means of alternative medicine. No less popular is the root of ginger and in the food industry, since it is an exotic spice with a very unusual but pleasant taste and smell.
[1]
Properties of ginger root
The properties of the root of ginger impress with its variety. This makes it possible to call ginger a truly universal plant, the methods of application of which can only surprise. Ginger has rejuvenating and nourishing properties, therefore it is used in cosmetologists, as an ingredient for masks and creams. The root of ginger has fat burning properties. From the plant, drinks are prepared for weight loss, it is added to tea and decoctions are prepared, which help to speed up the metabolism and to adjust the digestive system.
Ginger has anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties. That is why the plant is so popular in alternative medicine. A fresh root of ginger is used for the preparation of soothing and tonic drinks and very exotic dishes. A cup of tea with honey and ginger is the best invigorating remedy that tones up the body and gives energy for the whole day.
Caloric content of ginger root
The calorie content of the ginger root is only 80 kcal per 100 g, this makes the plant not only useful, but also dietary. The nutritional value of fresh ginger is 1.82 g of proteins, 15.77 g of carbohydrates and 0.75 g of fats. But the ground ginger, which is sold as a spice contains 347 kcal per 100 g. The nutritional value of ground ginger differs from fresh ginger, so in ginger ginger contains 5.95 g of fat, 9.12 g of proteins and 58.29 g of carbohydrates. The plant is rich in vitamins and minerals. The root of ginger contains ascorbic acid, vitamins B1, B2 and Boc, as well as retinol acetate, that is, the vitamin of group A. As for the minerals, the ginger root contains phosphorus, magnesium, potassium, sodium and calcium.
In addition to vitamins and minerals, the plant contains amino acids: leusine, threonine, valine, tryptophan, phenylanine. In the composition of ginger, all acids are known: oleic, nicotinic, caprylic and so on. The rhizome of ginger contains borneol, priceol, caffeine, gingerin and other substances. Such a composition speaks about the universal properties of ginger and the unlimited possibilities of its application.
Effect of ginger root on the body
The effect of ginger root on the body depends entirely on the purpose of its use, the components with which the plant is used and the way it is used.
- With digestive system disorders, the ginger root has a stimulating and purifying effect on the body. This contributes to the improvement of appetite, the formation of gastric juice and the alleviation of the course of a number of diseases of the gastrointestinal tract.
- The use of ginger root for poisoning has on the body cleansing properties, removes toxins and poisons, has a mild laxative effect.
- The root of ginger has a restorative effect and stimulates the immune system. Spice positively affects memory, improves cerebral circulation, advocates the prevention of atherosclerosis.
A small amount of ginger added to tea or food can lower cholesterol. Ginger exerts an exciting effect, stimulates potency and libido. The plant is valued in cosmetology, as it uses for weight loss and cellulite disposal, as an ingredient of anti-aging agents. The action that the ginger root has on the body is known in gynecology, the plant treats infertility and helps to get a vivid orgasm. Regular use of ginger will improve the condition of the gums, refresh breathing and normalize the work of the thyroid gland.
Healing properties of ginger root
The healing properties of ginger root are used in the methods of alternative medicine and are known from ancient times. The plant has expectorant, anti-inflammatory, bactericidal and antimicrobial medicinal properties. That is why, ginger is recommended for taking with respiratory diseases, colds, sore throats. Cholagogue and laxative properties of the plant help to safely clean the walls of the vessels from atherosclerotic plaques, that is, ginger has anti-arteriosclerotic healing properties.
Since ginger stimulates the digestive system, it stimulates the body's healing properties, which hinder the accumulation of cholesterol and remove its excess. Especially the plant is valued for its antispasmodic properties and stimulation of blood circulation. The root of ginger has a positive effect on female and male potency, stimulates sexual arousal and tones. The use of ginger with other medicinal herbs and plants only enhances their effect. All this makes the root of ginger a valuable and versatile plant with unlimited healing properties.
Benefits of ginger root
The use of ginger root for the body is manifested in its medicinal properties. The universal composition of the plant has a bactericidal, anti-inflammatory, calming, tonic and choleretic effect.
- If the root of ginger is used to treat inflammatory diseases of the upper and lower respiratory tract, the body receives warming, antiseptic and antiparasitic action.
- The use of ginger root is that the plant lowers cholesterol and stimulates blood circulation. If you drink fresh juice of the plant, it will help reduce blood sugar.
The use of ginger root is based on the rich composition of the plant. Ginger contains minerals, vitamins, essential oils and amino acids, fiber, proteins, carbohydrates. The plant increases the immunity of a person due to its general strengthening properties. Spice improves digestion and speeds up metabolism, which is why ginger is a popular means for losing weight.
Harm to the root of ginger
Damage to the root of ginger can be obtained due to improper application of the plant or high dosage. Using ginger as a remedy, it is worth knowing that spice has a warming effect, so ginger can not be used in high temperature and heat.
The root of the ginger is dried, marinated and consumed fresh. Thus, pickled ginger is the main spice of Asian cuisine, which allows to purify taste buds and protects the body from parasites. The use of such spices in large quantities is harmful to the body. Marinated ginger is not recommended for use by people who suffer from acute diseases of the gastrointestinal tract (ulcer, gastritis).
Contraindications to the use of ginger root
Contraindications to the use of ginger root are based on its properties. The plant is not recommended for stomach ulcers, diseases of the gastrointestinal tract, esophageal reflux or bile calculi. With special care, ginger is taken during breastfeeding. So, in the first trimester, ginger is used to relieve the symptoms of toxicosis. But in the last months of pregnancy, spice is strictly forbidden, as this can cause premature birth or lead to complications during the birth process.
Ginger contains cardioactive substances that increase the load on the cardiovascular system and increase the rhythm of the heart. Therefore, the plant is not recommended for elderly people and those who suffer from heart diseases or take antihypertensive medications.
[7]
How to use the root of ginger?
How to use the root of ginger to get the most benefit? First of all, it is worth saying that only the root part of the plant is consumed, since it contains all the microelements, vitamins, minerals, that is, the nutrients that are necessary for the treatment and prevention of health problems. With regard to the process of eating ginger, it is worth determining for what purposes you need it. Do you plan to use the root as a spice and add to the preparation of dishes or plan to brew medicinal teas and make infusions from it? It is from the purpose of use depends on the method of storing the plant, ginger can be frozen, dried or consumed fresh.
If the root of ginger is used in cooking, it is better to leave it fresh. When using the plant for medicinal purposes, ginger is chopped (tinder on a grater, cut with plates), so it must also be fresh. By the way, for medicinal infusions and lotions ginger in the form of a powder, which can be purchased in any department of spices, is suitable. Such ginger is used to treat joint problems and rheumatism. Do not forget that the useful properties of the plant directly depend on its storage, preparation and use.
How to brew the root of ginger?
How to brew the root of ginger completely depends on the purposes of using the plant. Ginger is poured with boiling water and insisted, the infusion time depends on the way the plant is used. If ginger tea is prepared from the ginger, then the plant is brewed for 30 minutes, if it is a medicinal tincture, the brewing process can take 2-6 hours. Let's look at a few recipes that will help you learn how to brew the root of ginger.
- Fresh root of ginger, about 100 grams cut into thin slices, cut into a couple of lemon and orange slices. Pour the ingredients with boiling water and leave to infuse for 20-30 minutes. After the tea is infused it can be filtered and drunk. Note that the combination of ginger with citrus is an excellent option for toning the body and maintaining the immune system in the cold season.
- We cut the root of ginger with thin plates or cubes and fill it with boiling water. Tea should be infused for at least six hours. After this, it must be filtered, heated and drunk only hot, adding a cup of spoonful of honey and mint. Brewing ginger for 4-6 hours, the plant gives all its useful substances in the water, this makes the tea useful and tasty.
- About 100 g of fresh ginger is ground in a blender or three on a fine grater. Fill ginger gruel with hot water (spoon ginger for 500 ml of boiling water) and put on a slow fire for 10-15 minutes. After the ginger has begun to boil, we add in a drink a pinch of black ground pepper. Let the drink cool down, and filter. When consumed, it is recommended to add lemon juice and honey to the ginger drink. This recipe will help cope with colds and seasonal ailments.
Dried root of ginger
Dried ginger root is a popular spice that is used in cooking. Dried ginger powder is found in herbal preparations and mixtures. Dried spice is used to treat diseases of the gastrointestinal tract, to alleviate the side effects of chemotherapy, toxicosis and colds, problems with the musculoskeletal system. Let's look at the basic methods of using dried ginger root.
- If you have dysentery or poisoning, then take 0.5 g of ginger 3-4 times a day. Dried root of ginger perfectly stimulates appetite and restores digestion, it is enough to take 2 g before meals.
- With sore throat and pain in the throat, rinsings with dried ginger will be effective. Pour a teaspoon of powder with a glass of boiling water, cover and insist for 10 minutes. After this, the product must be filtered, cooled and can be used for rinses.
- If there are first signs of a cold, dried ginger will help prevent the disease. Before going to bed, put ginger powder in your socks, put on socks and go to bed. Also from dried ginger, you can prepare a warming compress. Dilute the ginger powder with water until a creamy mass is obtained and rub it with feet. For the effectiveness of this procedure, it is recommended to pre-steep the feet. Under this recipe, you can prepare mustard plasters on your back and chest.
- If you are crawling in the transport, add a spoonful of dried ginger to the bottle of mineral water and drink a little before the trip. With the first symptoms of nausea, take a sip of water with ginger.
Ginger root extract
The extract of the root of ginger is a rejuvenating and tonic. The extract is used in cosmetology, for making masks for hair and skin. Ginger normalizes sebum, effectively removes toxins and toxins from skin cells, has an antiseptic effect. Masks for hair, which are prepared from ginger extract, warm the scalp, which improves its nutrition and blood circulation. Such masks accelerate hair growth and allow you to get rid of dandruff. Cosmetologists appreciate the root of ginger for its anti-aging and antioxidant properties.
The extract of the root of ginger normalizes the fatty skin, tightens and tones it. The extract is used for the preparation of lotions and creams for oily skin, anti-aging and tonic for face and eyes, anti-cellulite creams and stretch marks.
Ginger root for men
The ginger root for men acts as a powerful and absolutely safe aphrodisiac. Ginger treats impotence, increases libido and eliminates prostatitis. Regular use of tea with a root of ginger improves blood circulation processes, which promotes rejuvenation and health of the whole organism. Ginger for men is not only an assistant in sexual affairs, but also a storehouse of useful vitamins and amino acids that support physical health and increase endurance.
Regular consumption of a small amount of ginger with food or drinks allows you to keep the body in tone, and the immune system at a height. If you are going on a romantic date, a glass of ginger tea or tea with this spice will make your date unforgettable.
Ginger root for potency
The root of ginger for potency is considered effective, and most importantly a safe means. Not in vain is called ginger plant aphrodisiac and the fruit of love. The plant increases libido and improves processes, blood circulation, which contributes to a long and persistent erection. Many sex specialists say that ginger oil is an ideal remedy for an unforgettable and night and numerous sexual acts.
Ginger increases potency due to its essential oils, vitamins, trace elements and amino acids, which have a complex effect on the body, acting as a stimulant. If you regularly use the root of ginger, then problems with potency can be forgotten forever. This is especially true for men who work physically or regularly experience stressful situations, which leads to a decrease in libido functions.
Root of ginger for women
The ginger root for women is also useful, as for men. The plant is used for the preparation of cosmetics and for medicinal purposes. Ginger is the best assistant in the fight for a slender body, healthy skin, silky hair and a good mood. The root of ginger for women is the source of youth and beauty.
Ginger removes puffiness, stimulates the regeneration of skin cells, which speeds up the healing process of small wounds, cuts and scratches. Ginger scrubs help to fight cellulite, tighten the skin, making it tender and supple. Regular use of tea and fresh roots of ginger and honey tones up the body, and restores the protective functions of the immune system.
Ginger root during pregnancy
The root of ginger during pregnancy is allowed to use only in the first trimester. Ginger acts as a soothing, antispasmodic and relaxing remedy. It is the use of ginger tea or broth that helps to get rid of the symptoms of toxicosis, to eliminate headaches, dizziness and to establish the process of digestion.
Very often, the root of ginger during pregnancy is used as a safe and effective means in the fight against catarrhal and inflammatory diseases. Women are encouraged to add a fresh root of the plant to tea and favorite drinks. The only thing that is worth observing is the dosage. Pregnant women should not take a lot of ginger, as the plant can lead to an increase in temperature and other negative consequences for both mother and baby.
Ginger root for lactating mothers
The root of ginger to nursing mothers is not recommended to use, as all the active components of the plant, together with the mother's milk, enter the baby's body and significantly impair the taste of milk. This can affect the child's well-being. But we are talking about high doses of plants. If you add a little spice to your tea or dishes, it will not only be delicious, but also useful and will not spoil the taste of milk.
The root of ginger to nursing mothers can be added to soups, as a seasoning for side dishes, for teas and drinks. But do not forget that ginger well tones, so during lactation it is allowed to eat only in the morning. Ginger for a woman who recently gave birth is an excellent remedy that will help restore the body, remove toxins and toxins, and strengthen the walls of blood vessels. Note that many pediatricians and gynecologists do not recommend ginger to nursing mothers if the baby is less than six months old.
Ginger root with breastfeeding
The root of ginger with breastfeeding can be consumed only in small amounts. Such precautions are explained by the fact that when ingested in the mother, ginger is excreted in breast milk and worsens its taste. This leads to food problems in the child (colic, dysbiosis, irritation).
But if the nursing mother will add a small amount of food to the food and drinks, this will not lead to unpleasant symptoms. The use of ginger root during breastfeeding helps to normalize the robot of the female body, improves digestion and the work of the gastrointestinal tract, normalizes blood pressure and stimulates the circulatory system. In addition, ginger accelerates metabolism, which allows you to bring the figure after childbirth back to normal.
Ginger root for children
The ginger root for children is only allowed after two years. This is due to the fact that the plant, getting into an unprotected child's body, can cause irritation and problems with the digestive and gastrointestinal tract. Older children, ginger can be given as a preventive supplement in tea and drinks, add to food. The only thing that is worth controlling is the amount of the plant. Try that the child does not get too hot a dose of fragrant spices. As this will discourage the baby from eating ginger.
The root of ginger for children can be used in the preparation of desserts and drinks. Ginger can be used as a jam and or candied fruit. Let's look at a few recipes from ginger for children.
- Citrus tea with ginger
Take 20 g fresh ginger root, chop it and put into a cup. Rub a little peel off the orange and lemon. Pour all the boiling water and add a little green tea. If desired, you can not add green tea to the drink, but add a spoonful of natural honey for the sweetness.
- Sugar ginger sticks
100 g of fresh ginger root should be gently peeled off, and cut into thin oblong plates. Ginger put in a saucepan, add to it slices of lemon and orange, 500 g of granulated sugar and 200 ml of water. We put everything on a slow fire and stir. Ginger must boil and become translucent. After that, ginger is pulled out of citrus caramel and spread on parchment until completely dry. Sugar caramel can be used as an addition to tea.
How to store the root of ginger?
How to store the root of ginger is a very interesting question, since the plant must preserve its healing properties, but at the same time, it does not rot and deteriorate. The method of storage depends on what kind of ginger you have. Let's look at the rules for storing the root of ginger.
- It is recommended to keep fresh ginger in a freezer. This allows for a long time to preserve the medicinal properties of the plant. Before freezing, ginger should be washed, peeled off thin skin and grated. After this, the plant must be folded into a plastic bag, sealed, previously de-aerated and stored in a freezer
- If you plan to use ginger in the near future, then the root of the plant must be peeled, wrapped in a bag and put in a refrigerator.
- Candied ginger is stored in the refrigerator for about 30 days. To prepare the candied ginger, place the thin plates of the plant in a saucepan, add sugar and add a little water. Once the ginger becomes translucent, it must be extracted from the syrup and dried.
- Ginger can be stored and in the form of alcohol tincture. For its preparation, grate 100 g of ginger and pour a liter of vodka. After that, we send the tincture to the fridge, insist on 14 days, without forgetting to shake the jar.
Reviews about the root of ginger
Reviews about the root of ginger confirm the effectiveness of the plant, its medicinal properties and amazing vitamin composition. The root of ginger is used to treat and prevent various diseases and ailments. The plant is used in cooking due to its stunning taste and aromatic odor. Ginger found a place in cosmetology, it is used to make scrubs, masks, shampoos, tonics and creams. Ginger has an anti-inflammatory effect, protects the body against seasonal colds and increases immunity, both in adults and children.
The root of ginger is a universal plant that is used both in cosmetology and in cooking. The plant has practically no contraindications, so it is so popular in alternative medicine. If you are looking for a safe remedy that will help you lose weight, normalize the digestive system and improve the skin, hair and mood, then you need a root of ginger.