3 Best Ways to Use Ginger and Its Properties

Ginger is a thick, gnarly root that has been used since antiquity in fine gastronomy, and especially in alternative medicine. This root has been used in Asia for more than 3,000 years, but its exact country of origin is not known.

Use of the root spread from Asia to the rest of the world and is now commonly found in just about any market.

The root of the ginger plant is used in many kitchens to flavor different dishes, whether sweet or savory. It’s known for the touch of spice it gives to foods and for being a rich source of nutrients that are beneficial to the health.

This spice is found in a few different forms in markets and herbalists. We’d like to share the 3 best ways to use ginger and its health benefits.

Ginger tea

This is one of the most used ways to take advantage of ginger’s anti-inflammatory, pain relieving and antioxidant properties. It’s ideal for calming aches and relaxing the body after an exhausting day.

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon fresh grated ginger
• 1 cup boiling water
• 1 teaspoon honey
• Lemon juice (optional)

Directions

Grate a tablespoon of fresh ginger root and add it to a cup of boiling water. Add a little honey and lemon juice to taste. You can also make this recipe with a cup of boiling milk instead of water.

Also read: How to Grow Ginger at Home

Fresh in your recipes

The spicy touch of ginger is ideal for adding a unique flavor to foods and recipes. The amount you’ll use will depend on the intensity of flavor that you want to give your dishes. This spice can be grated, crushed or sliced.

It can be added to foods like:

• Meats
• Salads
• Rice
• Fish and seafood
• Use it to flavor oils
• Bread
• Cookies
• Desserts
• Puddings

Ground ginger

Although it can be found at the store already ground, you can also prepare it at home using the dried root. If you choose to grind it yourself, you’ll need to first wash and dry it in the sun, or even better, in the oven.

When it’s completely dry, cut into pieces and grind in a mortar or coffee grinder.

Powdered ginger can be used for:

• Making tea.
• Adding to juice and smoothies.
• Flavoring foods.
• Making salad dressings.

What are some of gingers’ properties?

Ginger has proven to be a powerful natural anti-inflammatory, capable of relieving different types of pain associated with inflammation. It contains antioxidants, necessary for fighting free radicals and preventing disease.

Its high content of vitamins and minerals makes it a great aid for your health, ideal for strengthening the immune system and contributing to the overall well-being of the body. Do you need any more reasons to include ginger in your diet?

Strengthens the immune system

Ginger’s properties help reinforce the immune system by increasing the production of white blood cells and creating a protective barrier against microorganisms that can affect your health.

Fights nausea and dizziness

It’s been used since antiquity as a natural treatment for combating stomach problems, including nausea, dizziness, vomiting, and diarrhea. According to Natural Standard, there is scientific evidence that shows that this plant helps reduce nausea and vomiting that occurs during pregnancy, but only for a short period of time when consumed in small doses.

Visit this article: Medicinal Uses of Ginger

Combats migraines

Because of its anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, ginger root reduces the tension, inflammation and pain caused by migraines.

Helps you burn fatter

A study conducted by the University of Maastricht (Holland) found that ginger possesses properties that accelerate the metabolism and help the body burn fat more easily.

This is due to the thermogenic effect it creates, increasing the body’s ability to eliminate fat through physical activity. And as if that weren’t enough, it gives a feeling of satiety, helping you to avoid overeating.

It’s anticancer

Ginger is on the list of foods with known anticancer properties. In a study conducted by the University of Michigan Comprehensive Cancer Center, it was found that ginger has a powerful effect on slowing the growth of ovarian cancer cells.