10 Benefits of Ginger

Ginger is an ancient wonder spice and is given the status of a "natural medicine chest" in ancient Ayurvedic medicine. That’s because this wonder spice has time-tested, digestion-friendly properties, in addition to its numerous other health benefits. 

In India, ginger is liberally used in daily life. Ginger-infused Chai is a household favorite, and it’s grandma’s antidote of choice for battling cold and flu!  

On millions of dining tables in India, you’ll see matchsticks of fresh ginger that have turned a soft pink from being soaked in lemon juice and salt: a zingy accompaniment to any cooked meal.

Try some fresh ginger just before a meal to stoke your digestive fire and support a healthy gut! You can grate it up and squeeze it into a hot tea, add it to juices, baked goods, smoothies and more... experiment and have fun. 

Let’s give this knobbly root a closer look. 

10 Terrific Benefits of Ginger

1. Haven’t been feeling hungry? Eat a little fresh ginger just before a meal to inspire your appetite and activate your digestive juices. 

2. Eating ginger improves the absorption and assimilation of essential nutrients in the body. 

3. Ginger clears the ‘microcirculatory channels’ of the body, including the clearing your sinuses that can flare up seasonally or during colder months.

4. Feeling airsick or nauseous? Ginger can help, preferably tossed in a little honey.

5. Can’t stop the toot-a-thon? Gas—oops—guess what?! Ginger helps reduce flatulence! 

6. Tummy moaning and groaning under cramps? Munch on ginger.

7. Reeling under joint pain? Ginger, with its anti-inflammatory properties—can bring relief. Float some ginger essential oil in your bath to help aching muscles and joints. 

8. Just had surgery? Chewing ginger post-operation can help overcome nausea. 

9. Stir up some ginger tea to get rid of throat and nose congestion. And when there’s a nip in the air, the warming and healing benefits of this tasty tea are even greater! 

10. Bedroom blues? Try adding a gingery punch to a bowl of soup. (Psst...the Ayurvedic texts credit ginger with aphrodisiac properties