Ginger

The ginger is a rhizome with a very peculiar pungency that has been widely used in Asian cuisine and, currently, its use has spread to the kitchen of countries around the world. In addition to being popular in the culinary field, it is also one of the most valued and used medicinal plants in traditional Chinese medicine. In fact, various scientific studies have confirmed that it has numerous healing properties beneficial to the health of the body, both externally and internally.

Composition of ginger

• Essential oils: citronellal, camphene, lemongrass, gingerol.
• Vitamins: vitamin B and vitamin C .
• Minerals: aluminum, calcium, chromium and phosphorus.
• Acids: ascorbic, aspartic, linoleic and oleic.
• Amino acids: arginine , histidine, methionine , niacin and tryptophan .
• Antioxidants
• Fiber.
• Enzymes : protease and zingibain.
• Phytonutrients: carotenes and flavonoids.

Ginger properties for health

The nutritional composition of ginger makes this plant very beneficial for the health of the body and to treat different disorders and conditions. Next, we detail what are the main healing properties of ginger.

Internal medicinal uses of ginger

• It favors digestion by increasing the production of enzymes involved in it and helps to treat intestinal problems.
• It is antivomitive, since its consumption prevents nausea and reduces the urge to vomit.
• Prevents stomach ulcers and conditions such as gastritis.
• It is antibacterial, protects the intestinal flora , stops diarrhea and favors the expulsion of waste in case of constipation .
• It improves blood circulation and has the ability to reduce high levels of bad cholesterol in the blood and to prevent thrombi in the arteries.
• Helps prevent heart diseases, such as heart attacks, angina pectoris, thrombosis, clots, etc.
• Relieves symptoms associated with colds and flu , such as nasal congestion, cough, chills, fever , phlegm, and is a good treatment for sinusitis .
• It is anti-inflammatory and analgesic, so it helps fight pain from diseases such as arthritis , osteoarthritis or carpal tunnel syndrome.
• Combat chronic fatigue and tiredness that is experienced even after a lot of sleep or rest.

External medicinal uses of ginger

• Relieves toothache and joint pain.
• Fight bad breath and dry mouth.
• It is an aphrodisiac and a good supplement to increase sexual desire in both men and women and to treat erection problems.

How to consume ginger

Ginger can be found in various presentations, whether fresh, dry or powdered , and it can be consumed or used in very different ways.

One of the most common ways to consume it is as an infusion. To prepare a ginger infusion , a piece of the root must be added to 1 liter of water when the water boils, then it will be left to rest for about 4 minutes. Finally, sweeten with honey or add a little orange, lemon or chamomile and drink.

Ginger can also come in essential oils, capsules, or juices. When ginger oils are consumed, do not exceed 9 drops per day divided into 3 doses, since the concentration is higher. In the case of capsules, they should be taken every 8 hours for a specified period of time and under the supervision of a doctor or nutritionist. In the culinary realm, ginger can be used to dress salads, season meats and prepare Asian dishes.

The moment in which the ginger is incorporated in any preparation or recipe will determine the final flavor of these. If the ginger is added at the beginning, the flavor will be softer, on the other hand, if it is incorporated at the end, the flavor will be much more intense and strong.

Properties of ginger to lose weight and how to take it

Ginger can be included in weight loss diets, as it promotes weight loss at different levels. The most outstanding properties of ginger to lose weight are the following:

• It helps to carry out the digestive process thanks to its fiber content. It increases the mobility of the intestines and, therefore, facilitates the absorption of ingested nutrients and the elimination of waste that causes bloating.
• Increases levels of serotonin in the body, a neurotransmitter that helps regulate appetite. This coupled with the fact that the consumption of ginger causes satiety, it is excellent to reduce the amounts of food that are eaten.
• It has two components, called gingerol and shogaol, which accelerate metabolism, which translates into greater fat oxidation and increased energy expenditure.
• It is thermogenic and, therefore, increases body heat, allowing more fat to be burned and more calories to be lost.

Ginger, cinnamon and lemon tea to lose weight

Among all the ginger recipes to lose weight that can be made, ginger, cinnamon and lemon tea stands out for its effectiveness. This drink is perfect for fast and healthy weight loss due to its detoxifying and fat burning effects, as well as strengthening the immune system and improving vital body functions.

Ingredients needed:

• 1 slice of fresh ginger root
• 1 cinnamon stick
• ½ lemon
• 1 cup of water

Preparation: grate the ginger slice and place it in a saucepan with the water and the cinnamon stick. Let cook over low heat for 10 minutes. After this time, turn off the heat and add the freshly squeezed lemon juice to the hot water. Strain the preparation and pour the resulting liquid into a cup. Drink when warm.

It is recommended to drink ginger, cinnamon and lemon tea to lose weight in the morning on an empty stomach. A maximum of 3 cups a day of this infusion can be consumed, preferably before main meals.

Ginger contraindications

Although ginger is a plant with many properties and health benefits, it is important to consume it taking into account certain precautions and consult your doctor or nutritionist in advance. Below, we detail in which specific cases the intake of ginger is contraindicated:

• Patients with active digestive conditions, such as ulcers, gastritis, Crohn’s disease, or colitis.
• Patients with gallstones.
• Patients with hypertension.
• Pregnant or lactating women.
• Women with very heavy periods.
• People who are taking anticoagulant or antiplatelet drugs, as well as medication for diabetes , high blood pressure or circulatory problems.