How Can Ginger Benefit Your Digestive Health and Reduce Inflammation?

Ginger, known for its culinary uses, is also highly valued for its medicinal properties worldwide. This plant has been held in high regard in Asian cultures since ancient times and was believed in medieval Europe to have originated from the Garden of Eden. The warming and anti-inflammatory effects of ginger can relieve various ailments, including headaches, joint pain, indigestion, motion sickness, and morning sickness. It is considered beneficial for almost all digestive issues, effectively addressing symptoms such as indigestion, nausea, gas, bloating, and cramps when consumed as an infusion, juice, tincture, powder, or incorporated into meals. Several small research studies have indicated that ginger can reduce muscle pain post-exercise due to its strong anti-inflammatory properties. One particular study from 2009 revealed that ginger was just as effective as mefenamic acid, a type of aspirin, in alleviating menstrual cramps after a 2-month treatment period.

Chemical Components

The oleoresin extracted from the rhizome of ginger, Zingiber officinale, contains approximately 20-25% essential oil and 25-30% active compounds responsible for its pungency. These active compounds are phenolic arylalkanones called gingerols, a type of phenylpropanes with longer hydrocarbon chains. When ginger is dried, gingerols transform into shogaols, which are even more pungent, and when cooked, they convert into zingerone, a less pungent form. Gingerenones are formed from the dimerisation of gingerols and are known as diarylheptanones. Gingerols possess anti-inflammatory properties, partly attributed to their ability to inhibit the expression of iNOS (inducible nitric oxide synthase).

Turmeric and Ginger Sunshine shots:

Ginger contains anti-inflammatory compounds, making it beneficial for individuals with arthritis and other conditions that cause inflammation in the body. Incorporating turmeric and lemon can further enhance ginger's antioxidant benefits. This natural remedy is known to help with digestive issues like indigestion and bloating. Consuming a ginger shot can alleviate common digestive problems such as constipation, cramping, and nausea. Additionally, ginger's immune-boosting properties, along with its antiviral and antibacterial effects, can contribute to overall immune health. 

Ingredients:

Two oranges

Two lemons

100g fresh ginger

35g fresh turmeric

½ tsp ground turmeric

1/8th tsp ground back pepper

400ml water

½ tsp coconut oil

Method

Gently scrub the turmeric and ginger under running water using a vegetable brush. Once clean, pat them dry with a clean cloth. Next, peel the oranges and lemons, removing all the outer skin. Blend all these fresh ingredients until they are as smooth as possible.

For a refined shot, strain the blended mixture using a fine sieve or muslin cloth to remove any remaining pulp. However, if you prefer to keep the added benefits of the fibre from the fruit and vegetable skins, feel free to skip this step.

After blending and straining (if desired), transfer the elixir into a clean, sterilised 1-litre bottle. To experience the full benefits of the ingredients, it is recommended to consume a small portion, around 50-60ml, daily for ten days. Alternatively, you can pour the mixture into an ice cube tray and freeze it for future use.