Ginger Plant In Food, Health benefits And Side Effects.

What is ginger?

Ginger is a plant with a long history of use in cooking and traditional medicine. It belongs to the same family as turmeric. The ginger root, or underground stem, is the part of the plant that is typically used. It is knobby, aromatic and usually off-white in color with a fibrous texture.

Ginger as a spice

Ginger is a very versatile spice and can be used in both sweet and savory dishes. It pairs well with a variety of flavors, including citrus, honey, and chili peppers.

• Fresh ginger can be grated and added to sauces, marinades, and stir-fries.
• Dried ginger powder can be added to baked goods like gingerbread cookies.
• Pickled ginger is useful as a condiment especially in Japanese cuisines.
• Crystallized ginger, which is ginger that has been cooked in sugar syrup and then coated in sugar, is eaten as a snack or used as a topping for desserts.

Ginger tea

Ginger tea is a type of herbal tea made from the root of the ginger plant. It has a spicy and aromatic flavor and is known for its potential health benefits. Some people drink ginger tea to help with digestion, reduce nausea, and boost the immune system.

You will need fresh ginger root and water to make ginger tea. Here is a simple recipe:

• Wash and peel a small piece of fresh ginger root (about 1 inch). Thinly slice the ginger or grate it using a grater and add the ginger slices or grated ginger to the water.

• Boil the water and thereafter, reduce the heat and let the ginger tea simmer for 10-15 minutes.

• Strain the ginger slices out of the water using a fine mesh strainer.

• If you wish, add honey or lemon to taste.

You may as well, add other herbs or spices to your ginger tea. Spices such as turmeric, cinnamon, or cardamom give added flavor and health benefits. Enjoy your ginger tea hot or iced. It can also, be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Ginger Ale

Ginger ale is a type of carbonated soft drink that is flavored with ginger and is known for its slightly spicy and sweet taste. Often, it is used as a mixer for cocktails. Sometimes it is consumed on its own as a refreshing beverage.

The ginger flavor in ginger ale is typically achieved by using a ginger extract or by adding grated ginger to the drink. Some ginger ales also contain other flavorings, such as lemon or lime, to balance out the spicy taste of the ginger.

Ginger ale can be found in most supermarkets and convenience stores, and it is also easy to make at home. To make homemade ginger ale,you will need the following ingredients:

• 1 cup water

• 1/2 cup sugar

• 1/4 cup grated or finely chopped ginger

• 1/4 cup of lemon juice

• Carbonation system (such as a soda siphon or soda stream)

Here is a simple recipe for making homemade ginger ale.

Health benefits of ginger plant

Ginger is a popular spice that has been used for centuries for its medicinal properties. It has a long history of use in traditional medicine and has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties . Here are some of the potential health benefits of ginger:

Nausea and vomiting:

Ginger has long been used as a natural remedy for nausea and vomiting, and it may be effective for these purposes. It has been found to be especially helpful for reducing nausea and vomiting caused by motion sickness or surgery.

Digestion:

Ginger may aid in digestion and help reduce bloating and gas. Also, it helps to stimulate the production of bile, which aids in the digestion of fats.

Pain relief:

Ginger plant may be effective in reducing muscle pain and soreness according to some studies. It may also be helpful for people with osteoarthritis, as a result of its anti-inflammatory effects. Hence, it may reduce joint pain and swelling.

Cardiovascular health:

As regards the cardiovascular system, it may have a blood-thinning effect,which may help to prevent heart attacks and strokes. It may as well , reduce blood pressure and improve cholesterol levels.

Immune system:

Ginger has been shown to have immune-boosting effects and may help reduce the severity of colds and flu.

Cancer prevention:

Some studies suggest that ginger may have cancer-fighting properties. Hence, may reduce the risk of certain types of cancer, such as ovarian and colon cancer.

Additional benefits are :

• Aromatherapy: Ginger essential oil helps to relax the body.
• Cosmetic uses : Ginger root extract, sometimes is used in hair and skin care products due to its anti-inflammatory effects.
• Food preservation using pickled ginger.

Side effects of ginger:

Ginger is generally considered safe for most people when consumed in moderate amounts. However, in some people, ginger can cause an allergic reaction, which can include symptoms such as rash, itching, hives, and swelling.

It may also interact with certain medications, including blood-thinning medications like warfarin (Coumadin), aspirin, and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen. So, it’s important to speak with your healthcare provider before using ginger as a supplement or in large amounts as a spice if you are taking any of these drugs.

Pregnant and breastfeeding women should also use caution when consuming ginger, as its safety during these times has not been well studied. It’s best to speak with your healthcare provider before consuming ginger in large amounts if you’re pregnant or breastfeeding.

In the face of severe side effects or allergic reactions after consuming ginger, stop using it , and seek medical attention right away.

On a final note, the nutritional benefits of ginger cannot be overemphasized. Hence, you should try and include some ginger in your next food recipe and thank me later.

Till next time, stay healthy!