An Article from our December Issue:
There’s a reason ginger has been used by traditional cultures around the globe for thousands of years as a medical treatment; its natural healing properties are extensive. Traditional cooking methods from many cultures also incorporate ginger for this same reason, though the spicy flavor of this versatile herb can’t be overlooked either. Not only does it bring robust bite to many recipes, but it also provides you with incredible health benefits in the process, and it doesn’t take much of this global favorite to accomplish either job.
Ginger contains protein, B vitamins, including folic acid and B2, as well as calcium, iron, manganese, silicon, and vitamin C, among other crucial nutrients. In addition to these nutritional components, fresh ginger also contains more than a dozen known antioxidants, which are substances that help fight and ward off disease.
The potential health benefits of consuming ginger are extensive. Here are just a few:
- Ginger has a thinning effect in the blood stream, reducing the chances for developing blood clots and heart disease, as well as promoting the overall health of the cardiovascular system.
- The common cold is among the ailments for which ginger has been a traditional remedy. Not only does ginger help promote faster recovery from cold symptoms; it can also reduce many symptoms, including coughing, sore throat, chest and sinus congestion, and fever.
- Digestive upset, including indigestion, acid reflux, nausea, and vomiting, can also be treated with ginger, and this medicinal herb helps reduce the symptoms that come with even chronic digestive disorders.
Juicing with fresh ginger is easier than you may think. Here are just a couple of simple recipes to help you get started.
Apple, Carrot, Ginger Juice
- 1/4 inch fresh ginger
- 4 carrots, greens removed
- 2 apples, seeds removed