Ginger: 15 Benefits and Unique Healing Properties

Considered one of the most versatile natural ingredients in cooking and in traditional home medicine, ginger has become the favorite of many. Its medicinal benefits can be quite impressive and it is currently one of the most popular and consumed spices around the world. With its strong aroma, spicy flavor, and extensive list of health properties , this Asian-sourced tuber can be found in most countries, either raw, ground, or in supplement form.

Its most important healing properties have been attributed to the high content of gingerols, zingerones and shogaols , active compounds with great anti-inflammatory, antibiotic and antioxidant potential. It is a versatile and easy-to-use ingredient whose effect appears to alleviate many health problems, from cold symptoms to inflammation in the body.¹

If you want to know more about the subject, join us in this article and discover what ginger is for , what its greatest benefits are and how you can make the most of them once you include it in your diet.

What is ginger good for? Properties and Benefits

1. Helps to lose weight

Ginger has been observed to have slimming properties that help you lose weight naturally. Researchers claim that this effect is due to several mechanisms of action, including the satiating power of its compounds, increased metabolism and burning of fat at rest, decreased levels of the hormone cortisol, and improved digestive processes. in the body.

According to the testimonies of many people who have taken ginger to lose weight , it can be said that its regular consumption helps to lose weight faster , seeing results not only in the abdomen, but also in other areas, for example in the arms and face.

Learn all about the subject at:

2. Serves as an aphrodisiac

Different researches have found that ginger acts as a natural libido stimulant , since it is able to increase blood flow and lubrication, raise testosterone levels, improve erectile function in men and inspire a sense of relief and general well-being . In fact, in the Kama Sutra book, ginger is referred to as a special ingredient cited for its ability to “increase lustful cravings.” Researchers say that more evidence still needs to be gathered to confirm ginger’s aphrodisiac properties.² ³

3. Protects and improves hair health

The benefits of ginger for hair are mainly due to its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and antibacterial effect ⁴ . Both consumption and topical application (homemade masks, addition of ginger in the shampoo) help to show offhealthier, voluminous and shiny hair. Many people have included it in their hair routine to combat alopecia or hair loss, to lighten the tone of the hair or delay the appearance of gray hair.

All the details on Ginger for Hair (Benefits, Ways of use and effective recipes)

4. It is good for the skin

Ginger has dermatological properties that promote the health and good appearance of the skin, including the face. Consuming it or applying it topically frequently can help keep skin clear and blemish-free , fight discoloration, sagging, and wrinkles, as well as relieve inflammation, redness, and infection caused by acne.⁵

5. Relieves cold and flu symptoms

Ginger is one of the most widely used home remedies to reduce coughs, especially the cough caused by the common cold. This effect is believed to be due to the action of its essential oils, numerous antioxidants, and oleoresin. The oleoresin is a compound known for its antitussive properties, which means it can alleviate and suppress cough.

It is also an excellent alternative to soothe an irritated throat , as it has an anti-inflammatory, antibacterial effect and stimulates mucus secretion. Using it daily during an episode of the flu or infection can kill the germs responsible for sore throat and irritation.⁶

One of the best options to take advantage of the benefits of ginger is to drink ginger tea with honey and lemon . Consuming it several times a day will not only relieve coughs and sore throats, but will also promote sweating to lower fever, fight infectious germs, and help expel any mucus. In summary, ginger is a good ally in the natural treatment of colds, flu, bronchitis, respiratory allergies and asthma.

6. Helps control blood pressure

Some research has revealed that ginger may act in a similar way to calcium channel blockers, albeit much weaker. ⁷ If consumed for several months, ginger can promote smooth muscle relaxation, make blood vessels more elastic, and promote circulation. It can also lower blood pressure by preventing blood clots from forming in arteries and blood vessels; Clots are known to restrict or prevent blood from flowing through the circulatory system, leading to hypertension and an increased risk of heart attacks and strokes.

Another benefit of ginger for hypertensive patients is its effect on the levels of bad cholesterol and triglycerides in the blood. Regular consumption of this tuber reduces the production of cholesterol in the liver and promotes its elimination through biliary / fecal excretion. All this is very favorable for those who suffer from high blood pressure or are at risk of cardiovascular disease.

7. It is beneficial for people with osteoarthritis / arthritis

For many, this is the most important medicinal property of ginger. It has been observed that, thanks to its anti-inflammatory power in the body, regular consumption of the spice helps reduce muscle pain and inflammation caused by diseases such as arthritis and osteoarthritis.⁸ ⁹

One theory behind these anti-inflammatory properties claims that ginger can inhibit the pro-inflammatory enzymes COX (cyclooxygenase) and LOX (lipoxygenase), leading to decreased production of certain chemical messengers, such as LT (leukotrienes), TNF ( tumor necrosis factor) and PG (prostaglandins). It has also been seen that, unlike NSAIDs, ginger does not appear to harm the stomach or kidneys , as long as it is consumed in adequate amounts.

8. Improves digestive health

The use of ginger as a remedy for the stomach dates back several centuries. Its digestive properties appear to be due to the accumulation of metabolites in the gastrointestinal tract; in this way they can alleviate any symptoms of pain, nausea, diarrhea and stomach dyspepsia.¹⁰ Many testimonials indicate that it is effective for:

Calm contractions in the overly active stomach, allowing its contents to enter the intestines and decrease heartburn.
Promote the elimination of gases, improve the intestinal flora and reduce bloating.
Protect the stomach lining and prevent stomach ulcers from forming.
Eliminate certain pathogens, such as H. pylori, hence it is a good remedy for gastritis.
Promote the digestion of proteins thanks to its content of the enzyme called zingibain.

9. It is effective in treating vertigo

In addition to being a widely used traditional remedy for dizziness and motion sickness (motion sickness), ginger root has also been shown to have healing properties in cases of vertigo¹¹ . To obtain such benefits, you can consume raw or ground ginger in the form of tea, in capsules, but the best alternative is to apply a few drops of ginger oil to the skin around the ears, neck and head. People with frequent dizziness, pregnant women, and chemotherapy patients also often benefit from these properties.

10. Helps control diabetes

The active compounds in ginger have shown some potential as a treatment for diabetes. Several investigations have observed the ability of this spice to regulate blood glucose levels , promote insulin secretion, reduce the dose of medications, stop the progression of cataracts and protect heart health, among other important benefits for patients with type 2 diabetes.¹² ¹³

11. Helps prevent cancer

The development of cancer cells is related to the presence of inflammatory processes and oxidative stress in the body. This is why it is believed that the anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties of ginger may play a role in preventing cancer.¹⁴ . Some studies show that people living in Southeast Asian countries have a lower incidence of certain cancers, compared to people in the Western world. More advanced research claims that gingerinhibits the growth of cancer cellsthat lead to colorectal cancer and ovarian cancer.¹⁵ , without actually causing the cellular resistance that usually occurs in some cases treated with chemotherapy.

12. Protects the health of the liver and kidneys

Gingerol compounds in ginger, especially 6-gingerol, are believed to have a significant impact on the proper functioning of the liver and the liver system in general. It has been observed that not only does it help regulate cholesterol metabolism and lower its levels in the body, but it can also reduce oxidative stress caused by the consumption of toxins and heavy metals such as mercury.¹⁶ ¹⁷

This protective effect is also valid for the health of the kidneys, since there is evidence that ginger extracts help to combat some cases of kidney dysfunction due to oxidative damage, reduce nephrotoxicity caused by the use of medications and help prevent development of urinary infections.¹⁸

13. Serves to treat bad breath

Once again, the compound 6-gingerol is responsible for this benefit. Researchers have observed that its consumption not only reduces the time it takes for food to travel from the stomach to the intestines, but also stimulates an enzyme contained in saliva that eliminates bad odors in the breath .¹⁹ ²⁰

14. Combat inflammatory processes in the body

Due to its excellent properties to reduce inflammation, ginger can be an option in the home treatment of common conditions, for example headaches , migraines , menstrual cramps , hemorrhoids and irritable bowel , among others.

15. Help in cases of hyperthyroidism

Although more scientific evidence is needed to confirm this benefit, it is believed that the compounds in ginger can improve thyroid function in some people with hyperthyroidism. By having anti-inflammatory action and helping to strengthen our immune system, ginger can be used as a medicinal plant in the treatment of overactive thyroid, especially in cases of Graves’ disease (the most common cause of hyperthyroidism ).²¹ ²²

So far we have seen a summary of the main health benefits attributed to edible ginger, however it is very important to take into account that these properties have been attributed to moderate and dosed consumption of the spice. Far from being beneficial, excessive ginger intake can cause adverse effects in different people, worsening several of the conditions mentioned in this list.
* Later you can find information on the subject.

At this point, you are probably wondering how you can use ginger root to harness its potential benefits.

How should I take it?

Fortunately, ginger is available in several forms, which is why it is very easy to incorporate it into your daily routine, no matter how complicated it is. We can find it raw and fresh, dry and ground , in capsules , extracts and as an essential oil. So much variety translates into different forms of consumption , so you can choose the one that best suits your preferences and lifestyle.

Ginger tea . The ginger tea is a great way to reap the health benefits of root, especially its antiemetic antioxidant and anti – inflammatory. It is a popular remedy for the relief of digestive problems, but it is also effective in calming menstrual cramps, alleviating cold symptoms, as well as weight loss . Read more on Ginger Tea: Properties, Popular Combinations (Lemon, Cinnamon, Honey, etc.) and More .
Spice in the kitchen . The sweet-spicy flavor of ginger is ideal to flavor all kinds of recipes, for example meats, fish, soups, salads, sauces, sushis, and even smoothies, juices and desserts. It is also commonly used to make pickled, dehydrated, and candied ginger, among other preparations. It is definitely an exotic and versatile food that is worth including in our meals.
Ginger water . Ginger water is extremely easy to prepare. Many use it as an alternative to ginger tea, especially when they have a preference for cold drinks. In recent times it has become a popular supplement to weight loss diet plans, but drinking ginger water is believed to have many other benefits to consider.
Ginger juices. Ginger root juice is easy to mix with other fruits and vegetables to make powerful natural juices. It is also a more fun way to take advantage of the healthy benefits of this special tuber. Drinking ginger juice has been shown to reduce inflammation in the body, relieve migraines and osteoarthritis pain, promote fat burning, and protect us with its antibacterial, antiparasitic, and antifungal effect.
Ginger extract. Ginger extract or tincture is a very useful preparation that offers many health benefits, but it should always be used with caution. Among the main uses of ginger extract are the treatment of arthritis and migraines due to its anti-inflammatory power, as well as the relief of nausea, vomiting and other digestive problems thanks to its antiemetic / antispasmodic effect.
Ginger oil This oil is also one of the most used forms of consumption for the home treatment of nausea, digestive problems, headaches and migraines.
Ginger capsules. Widely available in the market, ginger capsules are one of the most widely used natural supplements for relieving migraines, vertigo, and inflammatory conditions such as arthritis.
Ginger pills and tablets. Like capsules, ginger pills and tablets are another type of formulation highly recommended to reduce any inflammation, relieve pain, and combat the symptoms of morning sickness.

Without a doubt, the most common way to take ginger as a medicinal ingredient is tea. The infusion of raw or ground ginger is prepared in a few minutes, it is tasty to drink and allows to obtain a good concentration of healthy compounds. See everything on the subject in Ginger Tea: Benefits, Properties, Combinations, Uses, Recipe .

Likewise, it is recommended to take advantage of the properties of raw ginger by adding it as a condiment in numerous recipes , including soups, creams, sauces, salads, sushis, smoothies and mate. Ginger powder is also a good option for the kitchen, especially when we want to season meats, bake desserts, or add a slight spicy touch to any preparation.

Helpful Tips on Using Ginger in Cooking

When buying fresh ginger, look for firm roots, shiny and smooth skin, without mold or sprouts.
Peeled and sealed, the ginger will keep in the fridge for about 2 weeks. It can last much longer if it is not peeled and stored in a cool, dark place. To store it for long periods it is best to freeze it.
It is always necessary to peel the ginger before using it, it should not be consumed on its skin.
Add ginger to any dish that needs a little zing, for example sauces, dressings, teas.

Note : the properties of raw ginger and ground ginger are quite similar, but the latter may lose a small part of its compounds after drying and storage.

If you don’t have a lot of time, or simply can’t tolerate its taste, ginger supplements may be a good option. The pills are not only easy to take with you everywhere, but they also help you keep better control of the amount of ginger you eat each day.

Ginger Nutrition Facts

Although many people use ginger root more for its medicinal properties than for its nutritional value, it should not be ignored that this tuber is an excellent source of certain vitamins and other active compounds . In its raw state, ginger provides us with water (79%), carbohydrates (18%), and to a lesser extent proteins (2%) and fat (1%). In a standard serving of 100 grams of ginger we can find approximately 80 calories .²³

Now, from a nutritional point of view, ginger is rich in vitamins such as vitamin C, vitamin B9, B6 and minerals such as potassium and magnesium.

Most abundant essential nutrients in ginger:

Vitamin C or ascorbic acid (5 mg or 6% of the DDR): important antioxidant that is involved in the healthy development of many tissues in the body, in strengthening the immune system and in preventing the formation of free radicals.
Vitamin B9 or folic acid (11 mcg or 3% of the RDA): Critical nutrient for the metabolism of other acids and amino acids in the body, as well as for brain development and function.
Magnesium (43 mg or 12% of the RDA) – Essential mineral for maintaining healthy nerve and muscle function.
Potassium (415 mg or 9% of the RDA): contributes to the proper function of the digestive system and allows normal muscle contraction.

Other vitamins and minerals present in this tuber are vitamin E, vitamins of group B (B1, B2, B3, B5, B6), calcium, iron, manganese, zinc, phosphorus and sodium.

Active compounds:

So far, around 115 bioactive components have been identified ; among them are the gingerols , the shogaols and zingerones , all very closely related. The concentration of these compounds can vary depending on the state of the ginger, for example:

raw ginger contains high concentrations of gingerols, while dried ginger contains high concentrations of shogaols, but less gingerols.
in cooked ginger, gingerol levels are significantly reduced as they go on to form zingerones.

These three phenolic compounds are attributed the greatest amount of medicinal benefits, starting with gingerols, then shogaols and zingerones, the latter being the least potent. Thanks to them, ginger has excellent anti-inflammatory, anti-emetic and anti-spasmodic properties .

To take advantage of all its nutritional value, it is recommended to consume the raw root , since during cooking several of its nutrients can be lost due to exposure to heat, especially vitamin C. Exposure to light and prolonged storage also affect the properties of ginger.

How can I increase its effect?

It is not surprising that lovers of traditional home medicine want to look for alternatives to increase the properties and benefits of their favorite remedies. In this case, one of the best options to increase the healing power of ginger is to combine it with other ingredients , just as popular and beneficial for health. These include:

Ginger with lemon . Ideal to enhance the slimming and fat-burning effect of ginger. See Ginger with Lemon: Benefits, Preparation, Combinations, Contraindications and More
Ginger with turmeric and lemon . Excellent combination to fight inflammation, prevent cancer development, strengthen the immune system and control pressure. You may be interested in Turmeric – Properties, Benefits, How to take it, Contraindications and More
Ginger with cinnamon . Also recommended to lose weight, promote hair health and increase aphrodisiac power. View J engibre and Canela: Properties, Benefits, Contraindications, Consumer Combinations
Ginger with lemon and honey . A powerful trio to relieve symptoms of the flu, sore throat and cough.

Are there contraindications and side effects?

Yes. Like the rest of the ingredients and supplements, ginger can have contraindications and cause side effects in some people. It should be noted that this is usually linked to excessive consumption of the tuber ; Knowing the correct dose in each case is always the most important thing.

In general, ginger is contraindicated in :

Children (especially if they are under 6 years old).
People allergic to ginger.

Likewise, it is recommended to proceed with great caution if :

You are a pregnant woman or you are breastfeeding.
You take medications for blood clotting, high blood pressure, heart problems, diabetes, among other prescription drugs.
You have a blood clotting disorder.
You are prone to kidney or gallstones.
You are awaiting surgery.
You suffer from any gastrointestinal condition, such as gastritis, ulcers, gastroesophageal reflux disease, hemorrhoids, among others.

As a general rule of thumb, experts recommend a maximum dose of 4 grams of ginger per day (250 to 1000 mg of ginger, 1-4 times a day).

When too much ginger is ingested, the following side effects may appear :

Irritation of the mouth and lips
Cramps, burning, and heartburn
Diarrhea
Allergic skin reaction

Continue reading on Ginger Contraindications – Side Effects and Correct Dosage .

Quick answers to Frequently Asked Questions

What are the properties of ginger on an empty stomach?

The properties of ginger are the same if we take it on an empty stomach or if we take it during the day; however, its effect has been found to be most significant when consumed on an empty stomach.

Drinking ginger infused or a shot of ginger with lemon before breakfast is especially useful for:

Improve blood circulation
Promote natural fat burning and weight loss
Raise energy levels
Strengthen the immune system
Improve the digestion of food
Combat fluid retention and reduce inflammation of the abdomen
Prevent premature aging and the appearance of wrinkles
Relieve body aches (joint pain)

All the details in: What is Ginger used for fasting (Tea, Water, Shots)? [Resolved]

What are the benefits of ginger for men?

Due to its anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant properties, ginger has been linked to the prevention of certain diseases that specifically affect men.

One of them is prostate cancer ; After adding ginger extract to a variety of prostate cancer cells, a group of researchers discovered that ginger could inhibit cell growth and promote the death of these malignant cells, without causing toxicity in normal tissues.²⁴

Moreover, ginger has been proven to help treat male infertility and erectile dysfunction . In addition to its content of potassium, magnesium, and other minerals, ginger contains manganese, a mineral essential for neurological health. Considering its role in the formation and release of the sex hormone testosterone , manganese is a key element in enhancing sex drive and sperm production.²⁵

Note: Although manganese deficiency is not a common problem, it is known to cause infertility and erectile disorders in men.

Ginger has also shown potential in the prevention of colon cancer or colorectal cancer , a condition more common in men than women. One study claimed that gingerol can help treat and prevent this type of cancer.²⁶

What are the benefits of ginger for women?

Ginger also has specific benefits for women, mainly due to the anti-inflammatory effect of its compounds. It is a good ally to alleviate the typical discomforts of menstruation , such as headaches, back pain and menstrual cramps. Due to its calcium, zinc and magnesium content, ginger helps soothe sore muscles , improve circulation , decrease fluid retention, and reduce the appearance of cellulite .

In addition, it is a very popular remedy for alleviating nausea in pregnancy and increasing libido during menopause. In many regions, drinking hot ginger tea is the home-made alternative to treating a blocked tube . Note: So far there is no scientific evidence to confirm the success of this use. In the event of an obstruction in the fallopian tubes, see a doctor immediately.

Are the properties of ginger good in pregnancy?

The antiemetic benefits of ginger are especially helpful in fighting morning sickness during the first months of pregnancy . Drinking ginger tea or chewing a thin slice of raw ginger helps control the nausea, dizziness, and vomiting that are so common at this stage. However, its consumption should be done with great caution, always under doctor supervision and approval.

Read all about Ginger in Pregnancy – Benefits, Contraindications, Dosage

Is ginger safe for children?

The general recommendation is that ginger should not be given to children under 6 years of age . Consumption of the spice in infants and young children can cause adverse side effects and have health contraindications.

More details in: Contraindications of Ginger .

Can I take ginger to sleep?

There is some debate as to whether ginger is a good sleep aid or not . In some people, drinking ginger tea before going to bed has calming properties, helping to reduce stress, anxiety and insomnia; But it’s not always like this. Other people have reported that consuming ginger at night does not help them sleep, quite the opposite; there are testimonials from people who have experienced palpitations, insomnia and a greater number of dreams.

Tip: Test for 3-4 days; check if ginger helps you sleep better, or if on the contrary, it keeps you awake.

Keep reading on the subject at: Is It Good To Drink Ginger Tea Before Sleep? Benefits and Risks .

What is ginger?

Ginger is a tropical plant that belongs to the Zingiberáceae family , whose scientific name is Zingiber officinale. The rhizome of this plant, what we know as ginger root, is widely used for culinary and medicinal purposes. It is a tuber , similar to turmeric , that can be used both in its natural and powdered form. The slightly spicy-sweet taste and incredible healing properties attributed to ginger are due to its main active compound: gingerol .

Taking into account all the information that we offer below, it can be summarized that it is a vegetable endowed with incredible culinary and medicinal properties, a basic product for several cultures, as well as the center of attention for many researchers and naturists around the world.

What is the ginger plant like? How is it grown?

Note . Learn all the details about how to grow ginger in: Ginger Plant – Parts, Features and Home Growing (Garden, Pot and Water)

As mentioned at the beginning of this article, ginger is a member of the Zingiberaceae or Zingiberaceae family , where turmeric and cardamom are also included. Botanically known as Zingiber officinale , ginger develops flowers from a dense, conical spike; the leafy stem can reach up to 1 meter in height; its leaves are long, narrow and green; Its rhizome, beige on the outside and pale yellow on the inside, is a species with a thick, knotted root that grows underground.

The ginger plant is grown by planting cuttings from its own rhizomes, no seeds are needed. To grow ginger at home you should choose a healthy, plump root with several “fingers” and that is 4-5 inches long.

The rhizomes should be sown in early spring , after the lower winter temperatures have passed. It is very important to select a good place to grow this plant; It is recommended to sow it in a shady place, in a rich and loose soil, at a shallow depth. When planting ginger in the soil, compost or rotten manure should be added to improve the nutrients, and if you are going to sow the ginger in containers it is best to use potting soil.

What is the origin of ginger?

Ginger is a tuber native to Asia , where it has been a part of cuisine for the past 4,400 years, and of traditional medicine for at least 2,000 years. The origin of ginger is located specifically in southern China , from where it spread to other areas of Asia, West Africa, India and the Caribbean.

The ginger root became a very important article of commerce, both for the preparation of recipes and for the natural treatment of many health conditions. In ancient times, ginger was mainly exported by India and highly valued by the Romans, who continued to import it even after the fall of the Roman Empire.

What are its traditional uses?

Traditionally, the rhizome of ginger has been used in different cultures as a spice in cooking , as a flavoring agent, and as a home remedy to alleviate and prevent numerous health problems. It is said that the first to incorporate ginger into their daily life were the Chinese, who used it commonly for the treatment of gastrointestinal problems and relief from the common cold .

Due to its powerful aroma and flavor, ginger has also been part of the culinary tradition of many societies. In Asian food it is one of the star ingredients, as in the preparation of many European desserts. According to historians, the creation of the gingerbread man is attributed to Queen Elizabeth I of England in the 15th century. This is a tradition that has lasted to this day, especially to liven up celebrations such as Christmas and Halloween.

It may interest you:

What are the types of ginger?

There are different types of ginger, whose plants can vary greatly in terms of the appearance of the flowers, the size of the rhizomes, the shape of the leaves, among other characteristics.

In general, there are two groups, the varieties of Japanese ginger and the varieties of Chinese ginger or common ginger (those that we commonly find in stores and supermarkets). The former are characterized by having smaller rhizomes and a more intense flavor, compared to the latter.

Some common varieties are:

Spiral ginger. This type of ginger, with the scientific name Costus speciosus, is native to Southeast Asia. Spiral ginger has a bamboo-shaped stem that describes a twisting circular pattern; hence its name. It can grow in subtropical, temperate and grassland climates. Their bracts have a reddish tint and are arranged in an overlapping pattern. The flowering season for spiral ginger is in the summer. This plant is widely used in the treatment of fever, asthma, skin rashes, bronchitis, etc.
Hidden ginger. Hidden ginger, also commonly known as turmeric, owes its name to the fact that its flowers remain almost hidden within the leaves. A special characteristic is that the stems, pseudo stems, are formed by petioles of leaves, and in turn the leaves arise from these petioles. The long-lasting flowers of hidden ginger emerge from the upper part of the pseudostem, just before or during leaf growth; some time later they can be hidden due to the accelerated development of the foliage.
Zingiber. Herbaceous plant with a vertical stem, the zingiber is characterized by having creamy yellow flowers; the bracts are green in color and have a translucent margin; the rhizomes are warty and branched. Zingiber-type cones contain a milky substance that is used in the manufacture of shampoos.
Ginger butterfly lily. This type of ginger owes its name to the appearance of its flowers, since they closely resemble the wings of a butterfly. The height of this plant varies from half a meter to 6 meters. The flowers can have different shades, for example orange, white, red and yellow; sometimes they can reach great size. It is a variety widely used for gardening purposes, since even the leaves are scented. The rhizomes of this ginger grow quickly, hence the plant must be transplanted frequently.
Globba ginger. The globba plant reaches a height of approximately 2 feet and is characterized by the development of flowers that hang from the stem. Its bracts are mauve purple and the leaves are long, unlike the stem, which is usually short. The flowering season for this plant begins in July and continues through the dormant period in the fall. Well-drained, fertile and shady soil is considered ideal for growing globba.
Alpinia ginger. This Southeast Asian plant is known for its especially vigorous growth; it can reach up to 8 feet tall. This type of ginger has a fleshy pseudo stem, similar to that of a banana tree. Its flowers are small and its leaves show a very folded pattern. Well-drained soil with abundant organic matter is required for the healthy growth of this plant.

How is it stored?

The most important thing to keep ginger fresh and tasting good for a long time is choosing a root of the right quality . Choose a ginger that has smooth skin , a firm texture, and feels heavy for its size . Avoid buying pieces that feel soft, wrinkled, or moldy.

Once you’ve selected your fresh ginger root, you should know that there are different methods of storing it, from soaking it in a vodka or sherry jar to storing it in the refrigerator wrapped in a paper towel . And while all of these methods work, there is another that can keep your ginger fresh for longer.

The best way to store ginger is to store the whole unpeeled root in a resealable plastic bag to which we have removed all the air. The bag should then be placed in the refrigerator drawer. If a portion of the ginger has been cut or peeled, it is recommended to dry it with a paper towel before storing. If you have a peeled piece of ginger you can use the same method to store it, although it will not stay fresh for as long.

Is dry ginger better or fresh?

There really is no other better variant. The answer to this question lies in the goal of using ginger. Dried ginger powder and fresh ginger have different benefits , both for natural medicine and for making recipes.

The process of obtaining powdered ginger is known to reduce the amount of gingerols contained in this tuber. Gingerol is the main active component of ginger and many of the medicinal properties are due to it. However, while the dehydration process lowers gingerols, it also increases levels of shogaols, another compound that exhibits a host of health benefits. The effect of shogaols has been found to improve memory and cognitive activity in some people. As you can see, both alternatives have a lot to offer us in terms of health and well-being.

One scenario in which fresh ginger may be better than ground ginger is to prepare a specific recipe. When preparing a dish that requires fresh grated ginger, it is very likely that the final result will be affected if we substitute it for ground ginger. Depending on the recipe and desired flavor, substitution may not be recommended.

Note : in case of substitution, approximately ½ teaspoon of ground ginger can be used instead of 1 tablespoon of fresh grated ginger .

See: Where to Buy Ground Ginger? Offers, Prices, Contraindications

Some people prefer to use powdered ginger because it is more convenient for them . It can be used quickly and stays fresh longer than ginger root.

What does ginger taste like?

Ginger has a warm, sweet-spicy flavor , which can sometimes be very strong and spicy for some people. It is one of the few spices that is used in both savory and sweet dishes.

The flavor of ginger can vary depending on different cooking techniques . When used in soups, French fries, and teas, fresh ginger often adds a pungent aroma and strong flavor. When used in slow-cooked or roasted dishes, ginger has a milder, warmer, and more woody flavor. For its part, ground and dried ginger is often used to bake cookies, cakes and other similar desserts. In those cases it provides a mild, slightly spicy flavor, which combines very well with the rest of the ingredients.

In cooking, it is common for ginger to be combined with other spices such as cinnamon (See Ginger and cinnamon ), cloves, pepper and curry, to obtain more powerful and special flavors.

What other names does ginger have?

The term ginger comes from an ancient Indian-European language (Sanskrit), specifically from the word Singavera, which means horn body . This name probably arose due to the knotty appearance of the underground stem or root of the plant.

Currently ginger is also known by other names , among which ginger, sweet ginger, ginger (in Italy and Brazil) and kion (in Peru) stand out.

Related Articles:

Ginger in pregnancy
Ginger for cough
Where to buy ginger tea?