From antiquity to date, ginger has been one of the greatest medicinal household cooking spices.
A native to Southeast Asia, ginger is a very common food and medicine used across the globe. The ginger root is rich in natural chemicals that promote the wellness of the entire body health.
Ginger water remains a popular homemade solution for nausea, stomach ache, acne treatment, sore throat, and other health issues.
Typically, many people make use of fresh or dried ginger as a cooking spice orin making herbal tea, while some take ginger supplements to boost their health and other benefits.
However, ginger water is commonly referred to as ginger tea, It is undoubtedly one of the best ways to enjoy the benefits of ginger without being bored of consuming it.
Healthy-Giving Perks of Ginger Water
Just as with other herbal medicine, there are more research is needed to scientifically prove the uses of ginger and ginger water.
There are many medicinal uses for ginger water that can not be guaranteed healthy or effective scientifically, however, there are several potential benefits backed by limited research.
For Anti-inflammatory
Germs, chemicals, and poor diet can cause too much inflammation and harm the body. Although, inflammation is one of the body’s natural self-preserving functions.
However, inflammation has become a very common experience for a lot of people. Diet and lifestyle changes may be necessary to fight chronic inflammation.
Frequent intake of ginger can help prevent and heal inflammation. One study [1] discovered that ginger could reduce allergic reactions, which can cause inflammation.
Furthermore, a research [2] also proved that people who took daily ginger supplements had less muscle pain after working out. Muscle pain is also caused by inflammation.
For Antioxidant Purposes
The antioxidant properties of ginger may help to prevent:
- heart disease
- neurodegenerative diseases, such as Parkinson’s, and Alzheimer’s,
- cancer
- symptoms of aging
Do you know that antioxidants fight reactive oxygen species (ROS), which cause oxidative stress and damage your cells?
The body naturally makes ROS, but some lifestyle choices, such as excessive intake of alcohol, smoking, or experiencing chronic stress can make you produce too much ROS.
Consuming foods and drinks with antioxidants, like ginger water, can help prevent and fight the negative side effects of ROS.
Another study [3] carried out recently, found that that ginger might prevent or reduce the chances of kidney failure. Also, ginger might also decrease the growth of tumors, and found evidence that ginger may help control some types of cancer.
For nausea and digestion aid
Different tribes around the world usually incorporate ginger intake to help ease indigestion, vomiting, and nausea. However, some studies are still inconclusive as to how effective this is.
To balance blood sugar
In one research [4] , It was discovered that ginger improves the spike blood sugar in people with diabetes. These and many other findings show how safe ginger can help treat health concerns caused by chronic diabetes.
To balance cholesterol level
In balancing cholesterol level, a recent study [5] proved that ginger can reduce heart disease markers like arginase activity, LDL (“bad”) cholesterol, and triglycerides in rats give a high-fat diet.
To boost weight loss process
Do you know that ginger water can help promote weight loss when infused with a healthy diet and exercise?
A proven [6] research carried out on rats, has shown that ginger reduces obesity in rats on high-fat diets. Also, another study found out that men who drank a hot ginger beverage after eating felt more full for longer. Yes, balanced blood sugar can also prevent you from overeating.
To boost hydration
Staying hydrated is very vital for supporting every aspect of total wellness the health. Many of us don’t even drink enough water daily.
Starting your day with a glass of ginger water, or finding another regular time to drink one each day, will help you hydrate. You could also infuse ginger in your water jars or bottles, this is very beneficial too because you’re taking your ginger in water.
Is ginger water safe during pregnancy?
Many researchers have looked at the role ginger may play in helping treat nausea and vomiting in pregnancy. A study [7] noted that there is proof that supports the efficacy of ginger for the treatment of pregnancy nausea, but might be risky for some women.
A systematic review of studies [8], however, found no severe effects caused by ginger consumption in pregnant women.
Although, It is important to talk to your doctor before taking any supplements or herbs during pregnancy. In most cases, diet and lifestyle changes may help reduce nausea in pregnancy:
- eat regular, small meals
- avoid oily or too spicy foods, since they may likely upset your stomach
- sleep at least seven hours each night
- to stay hydrated
Can ginger water work as a detoxifier?
Detoxing rituals aim to slowly cleanse the body of toxins over time. Most people use ginger water mixed with lemon juice as a detox. There is, however, a shred of unreliable evidence to support this use.
Furthermore, since ginger can help fight germs, illness, inflammation, and cancer-causing molecules, taking a little bit every day can support your overall health.
Ginger is a natural root, so a daily and moderate consumption will also give you added nutrients.
How to prepare ginger water
Do you know that it is proven that fresh ginger is the best way [9] of making your ginger water?
Undoubtedly, there are a lot of products on the market today, that contain ginger or artificial ginger flavor, but you will get the most benefits and nutrients from the ginger water you make yourself.
Additionally, it is quite easy to prepare.
You can locate fresh ginger in the farm produce section of the grocery store.
To make ginger water, you will have to cook the ginger in water to form a tea. You might want to leave the peel on the ginger since you are not going to eat it straight and many of the nutrients are usually beneath the skin.
Also, you can use more or less water or ginger, this depends on how strong you want the ginger water to be.
Keep in mind that the ratio of water to ginger below is equivalent to 1 gram of ginger extract.
Few steps to follow
- Wash the part of the ginger root you’ll be using.
- Use a zester to grate 1/2 teaspoon of ginger.
- Boil 4 cups of water in the gas cooker.
- Add the ginger once the water is boiling.
- Remove the ginger water from the heat and let the ginger steep in the water for 10 minutes.
- Strain the ginger pieces from the water and discard the ginger.
- Drink ginger water hot or cold.
Ginger water is delicious with a teaspoon or less of added honey or lemon juice, but don’t go overboard with added sweeteners. If you think you’d like to drink ginger water every day, you can make a bulk batch and keep it handy in the refrigerator.
Consuming ginger can support your health and may also help treat many health problems. Drinking ginger water is also a great way to stay hydrated, which is important for your overall health.
References:
“Ginger water“. Healthline
“Research and study“. The National Library of Medicine. PubMed Central
