Ginger

Herb

Ginger: A Versatile Root for Flavor and Wellness
Whether you enjoy its spicy kick in a warm tea or as a zest in your favorite stir-fry, ginger (Zingiber officinale) is more than just a culinary staple. Beyond its distinct flavor, this powerful root has been used for generations to support various aspects of health.

How Ginger Supports Your Health
According to experts at Johns Hopkins Medicine, the active components in ginger—specifically gingerol—offer several science-backed benefits:

Digestive Ease: Ginger helps improve "gastrointestinal motility," which is the rate at which food leaves the stomach. By encouraging efficient digestion, it prevents food from lingering too long in the gut, which can reduce discomfort.

Nausea Relief: It is widely recognized for its ability to ease nausea. This is particularly helpful for:

Pregnancy: It is often cited as a safe, non-pharmaceutical remedy for morning sickness.

Chemotherapy: It can help take the edge off post-treatment queasiness without many of the side effects found in traditional medications.

Reducing Bloating and Gas: By cutting down on fermentation in the gut, ginger can help minimize intestinal gas and bloating.

Cellular Protection: Ginger is rich in antioxidants. these molecules help manage free radicals, which are compounds that can damage your cells if they accumulate.

Potential Anti-Inflammatory Effects: While more human studies are needed, ginger contains over 400 natural compounds, some of which are being studied for their ability to reduce inflammation.

Ways to Use Ginger
You can enjoy ginger’s benefits in several convenient forms:

Fresh Ginger Tea: Peeling and steeping fresh ginger slices in boiling water for at least 10 minutes creates a potent, lively brew that is a healthier alternative to sugary ginger ales.

Powdered Ginger: This is a nutritious, shelf-stable, and economical way to add ginger to baked goods or savory dishes like lentils.

Pickled Ginger: Often served with sushi, this version provides the benefits of ginger along with probiotics from the pickling process.

A Note on Supplements and Safety
While ginger is safe for most people in culinary amounts, Johns Hopkins experts recommend getting your ginger from foods and beverages rather than supplements. High doses (like those found in pills) may increase the risk of bleeding for those on blood thinners or affect insulin levels for those with diabetes. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting a new supplement regimen.

Source: Johns Hopkins Medicine. (2025). Ginger Benefits. https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/wellness-and-prevention/ginger-benefits



Photo by NoonBrew on Unsplash