Most of us know ginger as a key ingredient in curries and gingerbread. But ginger root brings more to the table beyond its deliciously spicy flavor; it’s also widely known as an herbal remedy with a resume full of health benefits. Ginger, which comes from the root of the ginger plant, Zingiber officinale, contains a compound called gingerol, known to promote digestion. Consuming ginger helps to speed up the movement of food along the digestive tract, decreasing its chances of getting stuck.
Not only does ginger help reduce constipation, but it also soothes a whole host of digestive complaints, including gas, bloating, nausea, and vomiting. Ginger has been found to help ease nausea associated with chemotherapy treatments and medications, as well as morning sickness due to pregnancy (via John Hopkins Medicine). It also contains antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties that can help boost overall health.
You can find ginger in many forms, including powder, tea bags, supplements, and fresh roots. You can add ginger to foods like oatmeal, yogurt, smoothies, curries, baked goods, and more. You can make ginger tea with powdered ginger, but nothing compares to using fresh ginger root. Simply cut and peel a slice of fresh ginger root, place it in a pot of water, cover it, and bring the water to a boil. Simmer for 10 to 15 minutes, then turn off the stove and strain out the root pieces. Add a spoonful of honey or a squeeze of lemon, and enjoy!