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Ginger (Zingiber officinale) is a flowering plant. The root of this plant is widely utilised for medicinal and culinary purposes. Ginger has been used in cuisine and medicine since ancient times. It is a common home remedy for nausea, stomach pain, and other ailments. This spice, native to Southeast Asia, was utilised by ancient Greeks and Romans. It was one of the first spices to be transported from Asia.
Ginger comes in various forms, including fresh, dried, pickled, preserved, crystallised, candied, and powdered/ground supplements for health benefits. According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), ginger contains antioxidants and other nutrients that may help prevent or treat arthritis, inflammation, and infections.
On the other hand, Garlic (Allium sativa) is a species of the onion genus Allium. Garlic has been used as a condiment and in traditional medicine since ancient times. According to Wikipedia, China accounts for 80% of global garlic production.
Meanwhile, NIH suggests garlic consumption has been shown to protect against various blood and heart problems, including atherosclerosis (artery hardening), high cholesterol, heart attack, coronary heart disease, and hypertension.
Look out for five potential health advantages of ginger and garlic and any evidence supporting the claims.
5 Health Benefits Of Ginger And Garlic
1. Relieves Nausea
USDA explains its widespread usage in treating and reducing symptoms of functional gastrointestinal problems, such as stomach discomfort, dyspepsia, and nausea. Similarly, taking garlic as a supplement might improve the immune system. A study found that taking large doses of garlic extract (approximately 2.56 grams per day) reduced the number of days a person was unwell with cold/flu by 61%. Research suggests that frequent ginger consumption helps alleviate discomfort associated with rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis.
2. Reduces Inflammations
NIH also confirms that ginger's anti-inflammatory characteristics, including gingerol, shogaol, and parasol, allow it to inhibit pro-inflammatory cytokines (immunoregulatory proteins) that cause frequent inflammation in the body, lowering inflammation levels. Garlic, on the other hand, includes diallyl disulfide, an anti-inflammatory compound that aids in the battle against inflammation by inhibiting the effects of pro-inflammatory cytokines.
3. Fights Prostate Cancer
According to the American Dietetic Association's Complete Food and Nutrition Guide, ginger contains phosphorus, magnesium, and calcium. Ginger contains vitamins A, C, and E, beta-carotene, and zinc, potent antioxidants that protect the prostate from dangerous free radicals. These free radicals cause ageing tissue and cancer to develop more quickly. Garlic is high in flavonoids, which have been demonstrated to have anticancer properties and reduce the incidence of cancer in general.
4. Controls Insulin
Ginger's components have been related to improved insulin control and metabolism, potentially combating diabetes. Over time, ginger has been demonstrated to help reduce blood sugar levels and control insulin responsiveness in persons with diabetes.
Garlic also benefits diabetics by lowering blood sugar levels, particularly for patients with type 2 diabetes. Scientists believe that moderate garlic consumption, whether raw, cooked, or aged, can help manage blood glucose and mitigate the consequences of various diabetic problems. It also contributes to higher blood insulin levels.
5. Boosts immunity
Ginger, which helps reduce inflammation, is reported to have antibacterial and antifungal qualities that aid in the fight against infections and enhance the immune system. Similarly, a clove of garlic is reported to contain calcium, potassium, and sulfuric compounds that are powerful enough to eliminate bacteria, diseases, and parasites in the body. The study “Nutritional Evaluation of Enhanced Unsieved Ogi Paste with Garlic and Ginger” confirmed it too.
Finally, the benefits of ginger and garlic are numerous and would aid in treating various health concerns. Higher meal utilisation is recommended and should be consumed raw for optimal results.
