Anti-Inflammatory Spice
One of ginger’s more exciting properties is its ability to prevent the formation of inflammatory compounds and even effectively treat inflammation in tissues, muscles and joints. According to Green Med Info, there are almost 800 studies on the various healing properties of this magnificent root, 275 of which specifically relate to its powerful anti-inflammatory effects. (5)
What makes ginger such an effective anti-inflammatory is a compound known as gingerol. From a chemical standpoint, gingerol is similar to capsaicin and piperine, the compounds that give chilli peppers and black pepper their spiciness and healing powers.
In two studies involving two groups of people (those who had responded to conventional anti-inflammatory drugs in the past and those who didn’t), researchers found that 75 percent of arthritis patients and an amazing 100 percent of people with muscular pain, actually experienced relief from both pain and/or swelling when using ginger.
In fact, according to researchers at the University of Miami, because the effectiveness of this zesty root is so powerful, one day it will essentially replace NSAIDs. (6)
And because ginger works on a cellular level, it not only heals the underlying issue, unlike drugs, but it does so without the known side effects that come from harmful NSAIDs.
As an added bonus, ginger contains many essential nutrients and vitamins like vitamins A, C, E and beta carotene, as well as B vitamins, including pyridoxine (vitamin B-6) and pantothenic acid (vitamin B-5).
It is also full of minerals such as calcium, copper, iron, potassium, phosphorus, manganese, magnesium, and zinc. Potassium, in particular, is an important component of cell and body fluids that help control your heart rate and blood pressure. (7)
Ginger also contains more than 50 different antioxidants that fight free radicals, thus protecting against disease and boosting your immune system. (8)
How to Make Ginger Water
Ingredients:
1-2 inches fresh ginger root
3 cups fresh, filtered water
½ freshly squeezed lemon juice
Raw honey to taste
Directions:
Pour 3 cups of filtered water into a glass jar. Finely grate the fresh ginger into the water using a zester for best results, and then add the squeezed lemon juice. Finally, add the honey to taste and stir until it dissolves. You can drink this mixture tepid or chilled. Drink daily for preventative measures or when you are experiencing issues, drink several glasses during the day to help relieve symptoms.