This aromatic, spicy and pungent vegetable is usually considered as a spice or herb and adds a special flavor to many Pakistani dishes. Not only does it add some flavor to dishes, but ginger has several benefits to your health. Specifically, ginger has been known to alleviate symptoms of gastrointestinal problems. It is an excellent carminative (substances that help eliminate intestinal gas) as well as an intestinal spasmolytic (substances that relax and soothes the intestinal tract. Ginger also has anti-inflammatory properties and if you are feeling nauseas, ginger is great at reducing the severity.
Gastrointestinal Relief
Studies have been conducted which show evidence that ginger ” Adrak “has excellent properties in alleviating minor gastrointestinal ailments such as indigestion, gas and stomach cramps. Bloating, nausea and heartburn are associated with indigestion and eating raw ginger can help with these problems.
Pregnancy and Nausea
Nausea and vomiting is one of the major signs of pregnancy and ginger ” Adrak ” has been known to help reduce these feelings. In studies conducted on women in early pregnancy, the severity of nausea and the number of vomiting episodes were significantly reduced. What’s more is that while some anti-vomiting drugs are unsafe during pregnancy, ginger is safe to consume with no side effects on the mother or child.
Anti-Inflammatory
Gingerols, which are anti-inflammatory compounds, are found in great quantities in ginger. Individuals who have osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis can benefit greatly from consuming ginger as it can reduce their pain and improve their mobility. Knees are commonly problematic in arthritis and various studies have concluded that consuming ginger can lessen the swelling and pain around the knees. Gingerol inhibits the production of inflammatory compounds produced by cells that line the joints, cartilage as well as leukocytes (immune cells).
Protection from Colorectal Cancer and Ovarian Cancer
Research has suggested that the gingerols present in ginger can also help protect from colorectal cancer. Colorectal cancer is when cancer develops in the colon or rectum which is the parts of the large intestine of the gastrointestinal tract. In addition, ginger can kill cancer cells by inducing programmed cell death.
Cold and Flu
During colds and flus, healthy sweating is necessary to flush out the toxins and bacteria responsible for infections. Ginger can assist in this healthy sweating. Sweat contains a potent substance that helps fight off infections caused by bacteria and fungi on the skin.
Tip
The next time you are feeling nauseas, whether it’s after having a meal or if you are pregnant or any other reason, try some ginger. If you suffer from arthritis, munch on ginger regularly to lessen the swelling and pain. Ginger is best consumed as thin raw slices, however, if you cannot handle its pungent taste, drinking ginger tea is an excellent alternative. Of course, add some ginger to your dishes such as Nihari .