5 amazing health benefits of ginger

Ginger is ever so popular in Asian stir-fry dishes and soups, and adds a delicious zing that tickles your palate. But this delicious herb is more than just a flavour enhancer...it's a health-booster too!

Here are 5 amazing health benefits of ginger. Keep reading and learn how to make your own ginger tea with our simple recipe at the end of this gallery!

1. Weight loss

Ginger possesses a thermogenic agent (produces heat) that helps our bodies burn fat. It has also been said to increase one’s metabolism rate by 20%. Plus, it has been discovered that a hot ginger beverage accompanying a meal helps to decrease your appetite. This means that you will be kept feeling fuller for a longer period of time!

2. Gastrointestinal Relief

Ginger has proven to be a good carminative, that is, a substance that helps fight intestinal gas. It also combats the symptoms of motion sickness such as nausea, vomiting and dizziness. More effective than most over the counter drugs, ginger is the natural way to go when trying to ease stomach discomfort!

3. Prevents and fight Cancer

Studies have shown that whole ginger extract has growth-inhibiting and death-inducing effects on a range of cancer cells without affecting the healthy cells surrounding them. While tests are still being conducted, ginger has proven that unlike many cancer drugs, it does not cause tumors to metasize (come back bigger and stronger).

4. Improves digestion

By adding ginger to your diet you’ll find that any digestive problems you may be facing will be alleviated. Ginger increases the production of saliva and digestive juices in your body so you can say goodbye to indigestion!

5. Relieve menstrual cramps

Chuck the panadol and other painkillers and make yourself a cup of hot ginger tea! Ginger was tested on a group of women who suffered from menstrual cramps and results showed ginger to be more effective than over the counter painkillers. Definitely something you want to try.

Make your own ginger tea!

There are many ways to enjoy ginger but one of the easiest and most soothing is in a cup of hot tea. Here’s how you can make your own!

Grate 2 teaspoons of fresh ginger. Add to 2 cups of boiling water. Let the ginger steep for about 10 minutes before straining. Grab tea bag, black tea will do, and add to the ginger water. Throw in a teaspoon of honey to sweeten and voila, your ginger tea is ready!