Ginger, the root of the Zingiber officinale plant, is native to Southeast Asia and has been used in herbal medicine for thousands of years. The ginger plant is rich in natural active ingredients that can promote our health and well-being. Ginger water or ginger tea is made by adding fresh ginger to boiling water and then straining it cold. Although it is mostly used to treat digestive problems, it has a variety of positive health effects. Read on to learn more about the benefits, uses, and side effects of ginger water.
Prepare ginger water
To make ginger tea, simply add grated or sliced raw ginger to boiling water and let it steep for at least 10 minutes before straining. You can vary the ratio according to the strength you want.
Full Recipe:
- Grate 1.5 teaspoons of fresh ginger.
- Bring 4 cups of water to the boil.
- Add the ginger to the water.
- Remove the water from the heat.
- Let the ginger steep for about 5 to 10 minutes.
- Strain the liquid to remove the ginger pieces.
- Allow the water to cool sufficiently or place it in the refrigerator and drink it cold.
Ginger has a strong, pungent taste. Some people prefer to add honey or lemon to improve the taste. Ginger water withLemon juice is used as part of a detoxification regimenused.
What are the health benefits?
Ginger helps against nausea
In many cultures, ginger has been widely used to relieve nausea. In the past it was also considered a reliable means of preventing seasickness. It also helps treat nausea and vomiting associated with a variety of conditions, including chemotherapy and pregnancy. A study published in July 2012 in "Support Care Cancer" found that daily ginger intake significantly reduced chemotherapy-induced nausea in cancer patients.
Helps with period pain
Ginger can relieve cramps and menstrual cramps. If you don't want to take pills, you can drink ginger tea in the first three or four days of your period. It is believed that the anti-inflammatory properties of ginger may work in a similar way to non-steroidal painkillers such as ibuprofen.
Is ginger water safe during pregnancy?
Many researchers have studied the role ginger may play in treating nausea and vomiting during pregnancy. Although the majority of studies have found no adverse effects caused by ginger consumption in pregnant women, there may be safety risks for some women. Talk to your doctor before taking any supplements or herbs during pregnancy.
Other advantages:
– Drinking ginger water can helpInflammationTo relieve joint swelling and pain in diseases such as osteoarthritis and rheumatism.
– Dieantioxidant propertiesof ginger can help prevent cardiovascular disease, cancer and neurodegenerative diseases such as Parkinson's, Alzheimer's and Huntington's.
Antioxidants fight reactive oxygen species (ROS), which cause oxidative stress and damage body cells. Some lifestyle choices, such as drinking alcohol, smoking, or chronic stress, can also increase oxidative stress. Consuming antioxidant foods and drinks like ginger water can help prevent and combat the negative side effects of ROS.
An article published in the "British Journal of Nutrition" in February 2012 found that ginger's anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties slow the spread of certain cancers, suggesting that ginger may play a promising role in preventing cancer.
– Ginger can have a positive effect on blood lipid levels and therefore harmful onesLower cholesterol levels.
– Ginger can do thatImprove blood sugar controland reduce insulin resistance in people with type 2 diabetes.
– Ginger water can helppromote weight loss, when combined with a healthy diet and exercise. Drinking hot ginger tea can help feel full andto have significantly less appetite. A balanced blood sugar level prevents cravings. The pungent substances in ginger stimulate the metabolism and promote fat burning.
Risks and side effects
As with any herbal or dietary supplement, ginger can interact poorly with other medications you are taking. Side effects of ginger are rare, but can manifest themselves as the following when ginger is consumed in excess:
heartburn
Flatulence
Stomach pain
Burning in the mouth
How much ginger water a day is healthy?It is recommended to consume no more than 4-5 grams of fresh ginger per day.
People with heart problems, diabetes and gallstones should particularly consult their doctor before taking ginger. You should also talk to your doctor about the safety of taking ginger if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or about to have surgery with anesthesia.
The positive effect on the skin
Ginger root has warming and invigorating properties and is therefore an excellent cleanser for skin and face. Ginger stimulates blood circulation and regenerates collagen in the skin. Keep the cleanser away from your eyes as the ginger can cause irritation.
Ginger as an anti-aging agent
Ginger contains around 40 antioxidant compounds that protect the skin from aging. Ginger water improves the complexion by removing toxins and stimulating blood circulation. The antioxidants prevent damage caused by free radicals and thus maintain the skin's youthful appearance. It improves elasticity and makes your skin firmer and more youthful.
Against acne
As a powerful antiseptic and cleanser, ginger helps keep skin clean, smooth and free of blemishes. It is also the best natural acne-fighting weapon as it minimizes breakouts by killing and eliminating the acne-causing bacteria.
For a comprehensive treatment you can have oneMake ginger facial toner: To prepare it, add 1 teaspoon of grated ginger root to 200 ml of boiling water. When the liquid has cooled, you can strain it and clean the face with a cotton pad. The use of ginger tonic is recommended daily.
For an even complexion you can alsoGinger facial maskstry out. These help in particular with hyperpigmentation and white scars after pimples. To do this, prepare 100 ml of ginger water. Mix 1 tablespoon of honey with 3 tablespoons of ground oat flakes and stir into the cooled ginger tea. Now apply the finished paste generously to the skin with a brush and leave it on for 20 minutes, then rinse thoroughly. You will notice a slight improvement within one to two weeks. However, this should definitely be done every day to achieve noticeable results.
Consuming ginger can support your health and also helps treat many health problems. Drinking ginger water is also a great way to stay hydrated, which is important for overall health.
