Harm from ginger. Ginger: useful properties and contraindications

In the popular American old tale, The Gingerbread Man, a fox eats a gingerbread. This is evidence that ginger, the benefits and harms of which are of concern to many, has been used in food for a long time.

The plant benefits people, and the feedback on the results of the application is positive. It is scientifically proven that the properties of ginger are due to the presence of many vitamins and minerals. Their greatest concentration is under the skin. During cleaning, it should not be carefully cut, it should be rinsed well and placed in cold water for an hour.

Ginger belongs to the Ginger family (lat.Zingiberaceae), along with cardamom and turmeric. It is grown on an industrial scale in countries located in the tropics and subtropics (India, Jamaica, Fiji, Indonesia, Australia).

The rhizome of the plant is eaten fresh, dry, in the composition of spices, in the form of juice or ginger essential oil... It is used for making tea, seasoning for spicy dishes, dried or candied. It is used by some pharmaceutical manufacturers to mask the taste of bitter medicines such as syrups, capsules and hard candies. Helps reduce nausea, pain and inflammation.

Healing Ginger Root

Scientists have proven that the root can cure many diseases. The characteristic taste and smell are provided by a number of specific organic compounds. This herb has powerful anti-inflammatory properties and is used to prevent bone disease.

Positive effects when using (using) ginger for medicinal purposes:

Ginger infusions have been used since ancient times to treat diarrhea as they prevent stomach cramps.
Helps with increased gas production. Eliminates unpleasant symptoms and prevents their recurrence.
A recognized digestive stimulant.
Increases perspiration, especially when consumed with a hot drink.
Fights fungal infections.
The plant accelerates tissue regeneration, heals joint pain.

Healing properties ginger can change when dried: anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects are enhanced, but the stimulation of digestion is reduced.

Useful properties of ginger

Even in ancient China, the effect of ginger on the human body was noticed. The patients were given powder from this root. Studies have shown that consuming this root daily leads to a decrease in muscle soreness after exercise.

Ginger has the following effects on the body:

Blood glucose levels above 5.5 mmol / L (on an empty stomach) cause unpleasant symptoms, including frequent urination, headaches, severe hunger, impaired consciousness, dizziness, and increased thirst. Ginger can help lower blood sugar levels to prevent all side effects.
The beneficial properties of ginger are the ability to gently lower cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of cardiovascular problems.
Neurodegenerative conditions such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's are associated with oxidative stress and chronic brain inflammation. The presence of antioxidants and powerful anti-inflammatory effects are able to support human health.

The beneficial effect of ginger on the body is not limited to ingestion for therapeutic and prophylactic purposes. The root is also used in cosmetology. It is actively used in the fight against pigmentation, it is added to various masks and scrubs for the face, body and hair.

Ginger root: harm to the body

Despite the positive properties of ginger, the root can be harmful to those with stomach ailments or gallstones. The product causes the release of bile from the gallbladder, with stomach discomfort, heartburn and diarrhea.

If in doubt about your health, you should consult your doctor before consuming ginger. This plant is safe in moderation.

Any medicinal product containing ginger (capsules, syrups) is dangerous due to possible side effects. You should start with the minimum dose and gradually increase it to track drug tolerance. On rare occasions, some people may be allergic to ginger. In case of alarming symptoms (choking, swelling or shortness of breath), you should immediately stop using and consult a doctor.

The benefits and harms of pickled ginger and candied candied fruits

Ginger is consumed unprocessed (raw) and pickled. Pickling Facts:

The main purpose of this seasoning is to facilitate the digestion of fatty foods.
With exacerbations of peptic ulcer, pancreatitis, it is better not to use it.
When pickled ginger is consumed in large quantities, unpleasant symptoms can also appear in people with a healthy digestive system.

Ginger with sugar is not good for your health:

Like other candies, candied fruits from this root are not the best things to eat if you are overweight. A healthy diet should include no more than 6 tsp. sugar every day for women and 9 tsp. for men.
Just 100 grams of candied ginger contains 19 tsp. - more than the daily rate.
Although candied fruits are not the best food, you can get no more than 16% of them. daily requirement gland.

Candied ginger can be added occasionally to the diet, but not for daily consumption. The properties of ginger in sugar are not the same as those of the fresh plant.

The benefits and harms of ginger tea

Ginger tea is effective for colds, especially when combined with stimulants nervous system: cayenne pepper, garlic, lemon juice, honey. This herb relieves respiratory symptoms associated with allergies. An important and beneficial quality of ginger is to restore blood circulation and reduce the likelihood of cardiovascular disease.

It is important to remember that harmful and dangerous properties of ginger tea can manifest themselves. For example, in case of fever, this drink is not recommended, because it can provoke a rise in temperature. Another side effect of ginger tea is that it causes sleep problems. It is better not to drink it at night, as the root has a tonic effect on the body.

Useful properties and contraindications of ginger for women

Scientists have found that ginger extract in middle-aged women may protect against brain aging, enhance cognition, and help improve cognitive function and attention.

Ginger helps reduce the level of prostaglandins in the body, which means it helps in relieving menstrual cramps. Research shows that the plant reduces the intensity and duration of painful cramps. Ginger is effective for the treatment of nausea, motion sickness, it is recommended to take it with chemotherapy to reduce the risk of developing side effects.

Application features for pregnant women and women with children:

During the first trimester of pregnancy, it eliminates toxicosis.
For more later dates it is necessary to remember about the possible dangers of ginger. It can provoke a spontaneous abortion or premature birth, and lead to other complications.
Women in labor who have lost a lot of blood during childbirth should refrain from taking products with ginger.
Caution should be exercised by women during lactation because the use of the plant can cause anxiety in the baby and problems with the gastrointestinal tract.

Useful properties and contraindications of ginger for men

Many believe that ginger root can be used as an aphrodisiac. It enhances sexual performance and helps to increase the rate of blood circulation. The rhizome contains useful trace elements involved in the synthesis of male hormones responsible for the quality of sperm.

Essential amino acids and vitamins accelerate metabolism and improve the functioning of the prostate gland. In prostate cancer, the components of the essential oils gingerol and shogaol inhibit the growth of tumor cells without negatively affecting healthy tissue.

You need to remember about harmful properties ginger in the presence of the following diseases:

gastritis;
cholelithiasis;
acute or chronic prostatitis;
diseases of the prostate gland;
frequent bleeding.

To treat any ailments, including erectile dysfunction in men and prostatitis, with the help of ginger root is possible only after consulting a doctor. The constant use of a plant in the treatment of some problems and eating it can negatively affect the human condition, because the plant can have a negative effect on organs and systems, individual intolerance to some of its components can develop.

How to Eat Ginger: Recipes for Health

The safe dose of the product ranges from 250 mg to 1 g, the frequency of administration is 3-4 times a day. Exceeding this dose can lead to the loss of the benefits of ginger, and the harm from taking the root increases.

Dosage of ginger root per day, taking into account age and condition:

for children from 2 to 6 years old, no more than 2 mg;
for adults no more than 4 g;
for pregnant women no more than 1 g.

Ginger honey food supplement is very popular. You should not put a lot of herbs and spices so that it can be consumed daily.

Ingredients:

a small piece of fresh ginger root about 3 cm long (thoroughly washed);
2 glasses of water (filtered);
1 tsp rosemary (optional) and other spices to taste;
1 tsp honey (optional, for flavor).

Cut the root into 5-6 pieces, add water to a saucepan and bring to a boil, add rosemary and other spices. From the beginning of the boil, at least 10 minutes should pass, the water will become dark and will have a rich ginger smell. After removing from the heat, the mixture must be cooled for 1-2 minutes.

You can take ginger with honey with a bite of tea. To do this, mix 200 g of fresh root with 200 g of honey and two lemons. No heat treatment is required, the mixture can be stored in the refrigerator for no more than 3 weeks.

Several ways to use the root:

With hot tea in autumn and winter. Add a slice of root to black or green tea.
With hot mashed soups and Japanese cuisine.
With fish. For example, with baked tilapia with cilantro.
With meat.
With pastries and desserts. For example, with gingerbread or pumpkin pie.

How to store ginger root?

The beneficial properties of fresh ginger persist for several weeks. If there is no choice, then you can purchase dried powder. It should not be light gray in color, but only sandy, light yellow, in a reliable sealed package.

What you need to do in order to get the most out of the plant:

Buy a root of excellent quality without damage and unpleasant odor. Choose firm, smooth, fresh roots. Preference should be given to a light and shiny root, since the dark ones have less nutrients.
Store in the refrigerator for no more than 3 weeks. Better to buy more often than buy a large number of and eat a plant that loses its properties over time.
When chopping, it is better not to use a wooden chopping board that absorbs juice, it is worth using a grater. It helps to get rid of tough veins at the root.
The piece remaining after use can be poured over with vodka or sherry so that the alcohol completely covers it. Can be added to tea or diluted with water and drunk to strengthen the immune system.
You can store frozen food in the refrigerator for up to a year. The root does not lose its properties.
To have a fresh plant all year round, you can plant the root in a small pot and place it on a windowsill.

The benefits and harms of ginger depend mainly on the state of the body. In the presence of any diseases, it is better not to risk it and consult a doctor. You need to be aware that the plant can be beneficial and harmful. It all depends on the method of use, whether there is an allergy to the components of the plant and what quality the root is.

Ginger has been known to Europeans for tens of centuries. His homeland is South Asia. But in Europe, use is documented during plague epidemics, as a means of spreading it. The 14th century was not distinguished by medical developments. It was believed that a bunch of flowers brought to the nose ("Decameron" by Boccaccio) would help prevent the plague. But the usefulness of ginger is not speculation. Today it has been scientifically proven.

Ginger - benefits and harms

First, about the benefits. The usefulness of ginger root lies in its unique composition and effect on body functions. It is indicated for use if a person has one or more of the following problems.

Potency problems, infertility.
Pain (as a pain reliever).
Slow blood circulation.
Reduced immunity.
Fatigue (both physical and mental).
Cold, flu (prevention).

There were also side effects. And not only does ginger benefit, and it can bring harm to the body.

Due to the pungent taste of the root, it is forbidden to use it for ulcers, any diseases of the gastrointestinal tract, problems with the mucous membrane and many health problems that ginger will not only not cure, but will aggravate.

Ginger composition

The main and most valuable thing is the root. In nature, the plant has seven species. There are two of them in human consumption.

The root contains:

phosphorus salts;
iron;
resin;
calcium salts;
potassium;
essential amino acids;
sodium;
essential oils;
zinc;
magnesium salts;
silicon;
chromium;
aluminum;
vitamins B1, B2,
ascorbic acid.

Ginger for men and women

The benefits of ginger for the female body - in a special relation to menstrual pain. The root helps to cope with them more easily than the popular antispasmodics.

The benefit for men is to increase potency, as well as help in solving problems with male infertility.

Ginger - benefits and harms for women		Ginger - benefits and harms for men
Benefit	Harm	Benefit	Harm
Relieves menstrual pain and headaches. Works as a sedative. Relieves irritability. Removes toxicosis. Helps with chronic female diseases. Used to treat infertility. Helps to lose weight. In order not to harm and bring maximum benefit, it is necessary to apply the root correctly. There are several ways to take ginger. Tea From ordinary tea leaves (preferably green) in the amount of 1 tsp. and chopped ginger root - 2 tsp. plus honey (not sugar, and even better a natural sweetener like stevia). All this for two glasses of non-boiling water, not higher than + 90 °. Let it stand. Infusion Ground root in the amount of 2 tsp, whole garlic 2 teeth, Pour 2 liters of hot water, you can in a thermos. Sweeten when taken. Decoction 2 tsp chop the root and cover with cold water. Cook at low temperature for 20 minutes. Cool to 40 ° С, add lemon juice, sweetener. Spice As a seasoning for dishes, ginger began to be used by mankind even earlier than for its medicinal properties. It was added to dishes to add spice. A wide range of applications - from the confectionery industry to the manufacture of alcohol, signature cuisine and home cooking - makes it possible to call ginger the most versatile spice in the world. Important! All recipes can use both fresh and dried (powder) and frozen ginger. Honey lemon and ginger - the benefits and harms are as follows Honey is not added to a hot ginger drink; you need to cool it down to + 38 ° C. Lemon juice also loses some of the vitamin C in hot tea. In order not to destroy it, drink ginger-lemon-honey tea warm. Ginger affects the mucous membrane, and in combination with lemon and honey, it is generally a "bomb", which should not be used in case of problems with the mucous membrane. The usefulness of ginger for human health depends on how accurately the dosage is observed. Less is better. To strengthen the functions, a single dose is sufficient. For the treatment of colds and raising the immune system, it can be taken twice a day. As a spice, it is used in a strictly metered manner. Many people love the pickled ginger that accompanies Japanese sushi and rolls. Please note that in Asian cuisine this is not a dish - ginger is only intended to clear the receptors before the next meal in order to perceive its taste brighter. Candied ginger - benefits and harms Someone is crazy about candied ginger, considering them incredibly healthy and an alternative to sweets or sugar. Ginger is bitter. This is not a sweet apricot or grape, from which sweet candied fruits are obtained without the use of sugar. These are not figs and dates, which dry directly on the tree in the regions of growth. Ginger root, in the production of candied fruit, is boiled in concentrated sugar syrup. It contains the same calories and fast carbs as regular white sugar. That is why the abuse of candied ginger is harmful not only to health, but also to the figure. The use of ginger root regularly in small doses can get rid of many diseases that modern man is prone to.

Ginger has a strong effect on internal organs, especially on the mucous membranes, which makes this root dangerous for ulcers, gastritis.

In addition, the substances in the root worsen the condition of the liver (especially with hepatitis, cirrhosis), can provoke the movement of stones in the gallbladder, and increase the body temperature.

The harm of ginger to the body is observed in combination with certain medications.

Ginger root does not affect the action of most drugs, but it is contraindicated to take drugs for lowering pressure, stimulating the work of the heart muscle, normalizing the heart rate simultaneously with ginger, since it significantly enhances their effect.

Also, ginger should be used with caution in patients with diabetes mellitus who are taking anti-hypoglycemic drugs.

Ginger root slows down blood clotting, so it should not be drunk simultaneously with drugs that have the same effect on bleeding.

The harm of green coffee with ginger

Everyone knows about the great benefits of green coffee and ginger, however, this drink can be harmful and cause various disorders.

With diseases of the heart and blood vessels, digestive organs, kidneys, you should not abuse coffee, and even more so with ginger.

The harm of ginger with green coffee is also observed with any chronic diseases, pregnancy or lactation, epilepsy, glaucoma, as well as with individual intolerance or a tendency to allergic reactions.

Ginger root harm

Ginger root contains essential oils and bitterness, which can negatively affect the body in certain diseases of the digestive system (nonspecific colitis, ulcers, gastritis, heartburn, diverticula).

Drinking ginger root drink on a regular basis increases the risk of hypokalemia (a decrease in the level of potassium in the blood).

Harm of pickled ginger

Pickled ginger root has a specific, unique taste. This seasoning is served with sushi - a traditional Japanese dish made from raw fish - its main purpose is to cleanse the mouth and prepare the receptors for a new taste, but it should not be overused like any other seasoning. If you eat too much of this burning dish, then digestive disorders, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and nausea are possible.

The harm of ginger is especially evident in chronic diseases - it can provoke an exacerbation of the disease.

The harm of ginger for weight loss

Ginger is recommended to be consumed during weight loss in various forms (with tea, infusions, fresh root). Nutritionists recommend including it in the diet, first of all, because it promotes the elimination of excess fluid, improves metabolism and has a beneficial effect on the body as a whole, but in addition to benefits, ginger may also be harmful, especially with certain diseases or taking medications.

A doctor's consultation about the possible use of ginger root during a diet is necessary for diseases of the heart and blood vessels, digestive organs, cholelithiasis, high blood pressure, as well as for any chronic processes.

Harm of candied ginger

The harm of ginger is observed not only when consumed fresh or pickled. Because it has a rich composition, negative health effects can be observed even after a treat like candied ginger (root boiled in sugar syrup).

First of all, candied fruits should not be used for diabetes mellitus, liver diseases, stones in the gallbladder, ulcerative lesions of the gastric or duodenal mucosa. Despite the fact that the heat-treated root has a lesser effect on the body, the consequences can be quite severe.

As in the case of fresh and pickled ginger, candied fruits cannot be eaten at high temperatures, during weight loss (since they are very high in calories), with hypertension, heart rhythm disturbances, as well as when taking medications for arrhythmias, to reduce blood pressure or sugar in blood.

The harm of canned ginger

Canned ginger can be harmful along with its benefits. First of all, they should not be abused, since poisoning, indigestion, upset stools, etc. are possible.

The ability of the substances that make up the root to increase body temperature, reduce blood clotting, provoke sharp surges in blood pressure, and strongly affect the mucous membrane of the digestive tract can cause bad consequences for human health.

The harm of ginger is manifested in the enhancement of the action of certain drugs (to lower sugar, antiarrhythmic, lowering blood pressure, to stimulate the work of the heart muscles, which reduce blood clotting), it can also provoke the movement of stones in the gallbladder, which is dangerous for the latter to get stuck in the bile ducts and the need for urgent operative interference.

Harm of ginger for children

For children under 2 years old, ginger is contraindicated in any form, an older child can be given ginger tea with honey and lemon, which will replenish the body with vitamins and trace elements, help strengthen immune forces, cope with colds, but it is important not to abuse this remedy.

The child's body is just being formed and the work of some organs and systems is imperfect, and the rich composition of ginger can cause more serious consequences than in an adult. Children are especially susceptible to allergic reactions.

Harm of ginger for women

Ginger root is used not only for health promotion, but also for youth and beauty of skin and hair. Ginger root in dry or fresh form is used to prepare masks (for face, hair, body) and with individual intolerance or allergic reaction, severe consequences are possible - redness, skin rash, itching, ulcers, so you should be careful with this exotic spice.

There is a misconception that all herbal medicines have a mild effect on the human body and are absolutely safe. In fact, their therapeutic efficacy is based on the constituent chemical composition biologically active substances. And the use of infusions, decoctions and teas with a high concentration of essential oils and bioflavonoids can cause the development of allergies and dyspeptic disorders. The aromatic roots of ginger are no exception. Treatment of colds, gastritis, endocrine pathologies with this plant often has undesirable consequences. It is undoubtedly more beneficial than ginger, but it should be used with great care.

When to give up ginger

The presence of a huge amount of essential oils in the composition of the spice makes it possible to use it in the treatment of dyspeptic disorders - nausea, vomiting, flatulence. But in people with ulcerative lesions of the stomach or erosive gastritis, a cup of ginger tea will only worsen digestion, and sometimes cause a relapse. The beneficial plant also stimulates the secretion of bile, increasing the functional activity of the gallbladder. But if stones are present in this organ of the digestive system, then they will begin to move under the influence of organic acids and phytoncides. Discharge of a large gallstone with sharp edges will provoke dangerous damage to the ducts and / or blood vessels.

Warning: Excessive amount of ginger tea or infusion drunk during the day will upset peristalsis and digestion, even in a healthy person. Using spicy roots in the treatment of colds or vitamin deficiency, you should adhere to the daily and single dosages recommended by your doctor.

The unique composition of the plant determines not only its benefits, but also contraindications for use. What is the harm of ginger for the body of adults and children:

Ulceration of the mucous membranes of the digestive tract. Frequent and inappropriate use of tea can disrupt the integrity of the inner wall of the stomach and provoke the development of gastritis or ulcers;
Increased activity of liver cells. In some cases, this seemingly beneficial effect of ginger can be harmful, especially if the hepatocytes are severely damaged. It is necessary to abandon the use of herbal remedies for cirrhosis or acute hepatitis;
Increased bleeding of any location. Ginger is used in folk medicine to reduce the viscosity of the blood. If there is latent bleeding in the human body, then tea from spicy roots will increase its severity, which can lead to a life-threatening condition.

Infusions and decoctions of ginger roots are an effective prophylactic agent against the formation of malignant and benign tumors. But with already diagnosed neoplasms, medicinal drinks are strictly prohibited. Ginger speeds up metabolic processes, and this can provoke increased division and growth of mutated cells.

Who is ginger dangerous for?

Gynecologists often recommend that women in early pregnancy drink ginger tea to relieve the clinical manifestations of toxicosis. Biologically active substances from the composition of the spice plant prevent the development of nausea and vomiting, stabilize the psycho-emotional state of the expectant mother. But in the second and third trimesters of pregnancy, the use of ginger tea should be stopped. Bioflavonoids and phytoestrogens have a negative effect on the tone of the smooth muscle of the uterus, and this is fraught with premature birth or miscarriage.

During the carrying of a child in a woman's body, not only the hormonal background changes, but also the rate of metabolic processes. If before conception, the use of ginger tea brought only benefits, then in a state of pregnancy, the drink will show all its side effects. The use of ginger infusions must be agreed with the gynecologist.

Recommendation: Drinks made from spicy roots have the ability to increase blood pressure, so hypertensive patients should not include them in their diet. If this medical recommendation is violated, the likelihood of stroke, heart attack, coronary heart disease increases.

Children and adolescents

Ginger tea is wonderful for treating respiratory diseases of bacterial, viral and fungal origin. It destroys harmful microorganisms, removes them from respiratory tract... In most cases, bronchitis, tonsillitis, sinusitis occur against the background of sharp rises in temperature. And with hyperthermia, the use of ginger tea is extremely dangerous. It will not only raise the temperature due to its ability to thin the blood, but it can also provoke hemorrhages, including in the brain. It is impossible to unequivocally answer the question of whether ginger is harmful for respiratory infections, since much depends on its correct use. Pediatricians advise against giving any drinks with this plant to children under two years of age.

Women who are breastfeeding a baby

It is better to exclude ginger from the diet during lactation, despite the high content of vitamins and minerals in its composition. The essential oils of the plant often provoke the development of an allergic reaction. A person has dyspeptic disorders, redness and rashes on the skin, problems with breathing. Although a nursing mother is not allergic to ginger, her baby may have one.

Warning: Together with breast milk, essential oils and tannins of ginger penetrate into the infant's body. They can cause bloating, painful colic, and motility disorders.

All materials on the site are presented solely for informational purposes. Before using any means, a consultation with a doctor is MANDATORY!

Priroda made sure that people stay healthy throughout their lives.

The developing pharmaceutical industry offers an abundance of drugs of domestic and foreign origin, which, moreover, are not affordable for everyone - drug prices are growing disproportionately to the increase in the income of the average Russian family. And if we add to this a dubious list of contraindications and side effects, the old saying “” is involuntarily remembered. But even a few decades ago, handfuls of pills were replaced with natural medicines grown in their own garden or carefully donated by nature.

Folk recipes from all kinds of ailments were passed down from generation to generation as the highest value, because even the most experienced healers of that time could not doubt their effectiveness. Onions, garlic, ginseng, coltsfoot ... The list of "natural healers" can be enumerated endlessly... But, perhaps, one of the most worthy places in it is occupied by ginger.

How ginger grows: a botanical note

Looking at the ginger root sold in stores, it is difficult to imagine that this unsightly-looking plant has so many medicinal properties. Nevertheless, it enjoyed great recognition and respect even before the invention of medicine - not without reason, when translated from Sanskrit, its name is interpreted as “horned root” (due to its non-trivial form) or “universal medicine” (due to its amazing properties).

North India is considered the birthplace of ginger, where more than 50% of the world "ginger market" is grown to this day. This perennial herb does not grow by itself - it is grown with special care and scrupulousness on specially designated plantations to give the world a healing remedy for many ailments. However, in ancient times it was used not only as a medicine - many men used ginger as an aphrodisiac.

See, how ginger blooms, it is possible in the second year of the plant's life. Spike-shaped inflorescences, consisting of pastel yellow petals in a purple frame, do not appear on slender ginger stems as often as we would like - this should be facilitated by weather conditions, providing high humidity and warmth. It is worth the wait, though, as the blooming ginger is an indescribably beautiful sight.

However, despite the external attractiveness, the greatest value of the plant is the fleshy rhizome - it is in it that a cocktail of antibacterial, vitamin and mineral supplements, especially important for humans, is collected. Moreover, the properties are lost during processing only slightly, which means that pickled or dried ginger root also brings undoubted benefits to the body.

Ginger: beneficial properties and chemical composition

The healing power of ginger can be explained by the unique combination of beneficial components that make up its composition. Among them, of particular importance are:

Antioxidants represented by vitamins A, C, E, as well as magnesium and zinc. These substances are useful not only as a nutritional base for the body, but also as protective reserves against radiation, the harmful effects of ultraviolet radiation and, as a result, free radicals. In addition, antioxidants help to prolong youth and preserve vitality.
Amino acids, including essential ones. They are involved in the restoration of cellular composition, renewal of the body, hematopoiesis and maintenance of all vital functions. Nicotinic and oleic acid. These components are the basis for a harmonious metabolism, which means that these acids are indirectly responsible for the energy balance.
Mineral cocktail. Silicon, potassium, phosphorus, zinc ... It can take a very long time to list the amount of micro- and macroelements that make up the ginger root. And each of them is important in its own way in maintaining normal life.
Essential oils. An unimaginable aroma is far from the most important function of the ether. These oils help to strengthen the immune system and help the body to resist disease-causing viruses, bacteria and fungi.
Gingerol. This organic compound speeds up metabolic processes, relieves symptoms of inflammation and helps cleanse toxins.

However, these components are only a small part of the nutrients that are part of ginger. That is why the plant has been used for medicinal purposes almost since its inception. The beneficial effects of ginger infusions, grated or dried rhizomes are described in the treatise "On medical matter" by the ancient Greek scientist Dioscorides. It was he who, engaged in a detailed study of ginger, began to use it as an antiemetic, intestinal and "eye" medicine, and then taught his contemporaries to treat the consequences of excessive celebration (simply - a hangover).

And to this day, folk recipes based on ginger are used to treat all kinds of ailments:

for colds: a decoction, diluted juice or tea with ginger relieves the symptoms of acute respiratory viral infections, flu, bronchitis, tonsillitis and even pneumonia, and inhalation using essential oil helps
with nasal congestion;
with intestinal disorders: the slight laxative effect of ginger extract helps to relieve the symptoms of food poisoning, get rid of stomach pain, remove toxins and toxins from the intestines;
with gynecological disorders: the beneficial effect of this plant affects the reproductive system of a woman, relieves the symptoms of inflammatory processes and facilitates their course;
for disorders of the musculoskeletal system: in particular, ginger has established itself as an excellent medicine for rheumatism, arthritis, arthrosis and painful sensations in the joints;
with diabetes mellitus: the plant has a positive effect on blood sugar levels;
with vascular pathologies: ginger increases the elasticity of capillaries, promotes their cleansing, reduces the risk of blood clots and improves cerebral circulation;
from male ailments: such a remedy helps prevent the occurrence of prostatitis and increases libido;
for weight loss: ginger speeds up metabolism and improves the absorption of fats, which means that it promotes the speedy breakdown of body fat;
in cosmetology: masks, creams and lotions based on ginger juice or infusion are a magic remedy for the first signs of aging, increased skin greasiness and acne.

Ginger: contraindications

Unfortunately, not everyone can take advantage of this storehouse of healing forces of nature - ginger has very modest contraindications, but you shouldn't discount them. So, it is worthwhile to approach self-medication with ginger root with caution in the following cases:

during pregnancy, especially in the third trimester;
young mothers whose babies are breastfed;
if the age of the small patient is less three years;
with fever and temperature over 38 °;
those who suffer from stomach ulcers, gallstones, acute and chronic gastritis; with epilepsy.

In addition, in rare cases, hypersensitivity to the esters that make up the rhizome occurs. This means that before using a cosmetic product based on ginger for the first time, it is best to do a small test: apply a little cream or lotion on the inner side of your wrist and observe the area for several hours - if itching, redness and burning appear, it is better not to use ginger cosmetics.

With complex treatment, including the use of medicines and folk remedies with ginger, it is better to consult a doctor, since the plant extract can affect the effectiveness of drugs.

How to store ginger at home?

Since ginger can be used in food in absolutely any form - pickled, candied, dried, in the form of juice, infusion or tincture, tea, spice, etc. - many housewives do not even think about how to preserve the healing properties of this unique plant, because there are a lot of options.

Knowing about the benefits of ginger, most connoisseurs of this plant try to keep it fresh. Nevertheless, the rhizome, even in the refrigerator, remains usable for no more than a week, so this option is only suitable for short-term storage. But the dried root can retain its usefulness for 4 months! At the same time, it is not at all necessary to use it dry - you can grind it into powder and use it as a flavoring additive to food, or soak it before use to restore its fresh appearance and shape.

In addition, the nutritional value of ginger is preserved even at low temperatures, so you can freeze the “home doctor” by wrapping it in cling film. True, it is best to chop it into portioned pieces before freezing - it makes no sense to re-freeze the plant, and cutting off the desired piece from the frozen root can be extremely difficult. You can also send ginger puree, obtained using a blender or a fine grater, to the freezer. Having spread it out in a thin layer in a bag, you can break off the required amount of ready-made "semi-finished product" for tea or broth at any time.

Many people with a sweet tooth will love candied ginger, which can be kept cold for about a month. Moreover, it is very easy to prepare it! All that is required is to cut the root into thin slices and boil them in syrup for 10 minutes (approximate ratio of water to sugar 1: 1). However, it is not at all necessary to store the plant for a long time - knowing in what conditions and where ginger grows, you can always grow it at home. True, the "home option" will not be so useful, but all the necessary healing properties will be preserved.

When using ginger powder as a spice, it should be borne in mind that a dry rhizome is much sharper than a fresh one. Based on this, the dosage should be chosen so as not to overdo it and not spoil the dish. By the way, when preparing dishes with fresh ginger, it is better to avoid wooden dishes - they absorb the ethereal smell too quickly, which means that the aromas of ginger will haunt you even where they are inappropriate.

The best folk recipes with ginger

Money box traditional medicine no longer contains the huge number of recipes that are prepared on the basis of ginger. They are used for colds and intestinal disorders, general fatigue and nervous strain, headaches and other ailments ... It will take more than one month to try at least a tenth of them. However, the best of them have firmly settled in the kitchen and in the first-aid kits of caring housewives.

Tea with ginger and lemon

This drink is considered a real elixir of health and longevity, because the harmonious combination of ginger and lemon fills it with a shock dose of vitamins and microelements. And if you add a spoonful of honey as a sweetener, tea can defeat any colds! All that is required for cooking is a few slices of ginger root, the same amount of lemon (for 1-2 servings), and honey can be added to taste. After adding ingredients to boiling water, it is enough to boil them for just 1 minute - and you can enjoy fragrant tea that will fill the body with vitality and unshakable health!

Ginger with lemon. Blank

If you feel that you are starting to catch a cold, it's time to remember the miraculous power of ginger with lemon. A convenient solution is to make a blank that can be stored in the refrigerator for several days. You can take it with you to the office or on the road and brew a healing drink as often as possible. The preparation is very simple. We need to grate 150-200 g of fresh ginger root, finely chop 1 lemon along with the zest, add 150-200 g of honey, mix. Next, the mixture must be folded into a glass jar and closed with a lid.

Ginger, lemon, honey

This is a magic formula that helps you get rid of colds much faster. Of course, it can be used not only during illness, but also during viral infections to strengthen immunity. Steeping ginger with lemon and honey is a good health habit.

Ginger compress

A gauze compress will help to get rid of painful sensations, inside which you need to wrap ginger gruel. To prepare it is as easy as shelling pears: you can grate a fresh root or use a dry powder, the main thing is to dilute it with water until it is puree. By applying such a compress to the site of pain localization (for example, the forehead for migraines or the lower back for back pain), the symptom can be removed in 10-20 minutes.

Gingerbread

With the onset of nausea, toxicosis or "seasickness", you should chew a slice of fresh ginger root or prepare a special paste of dried spices with the addition of a few drops of water. At the same time, it is not at all necessary to swallow the "chewing gum" - the released ethers along with saliva will enter the digestive tract and relieve unpleasant sensations.

Turning to the secrets of traditional medicine, you can get rid of almost any ailment with the help of a unique plant - ginger. So why poison yourself with untested medicines, if everything you need is in the kitchen of every housewife? Remember: health priceless!