Ginger is a common spice in most Indian households. Its intense flavour and smell enhance the taste of any dish, making adrak a kitchen staple. But did you know that it’s great for your health as well? The compounds present in ginger make it one of the most beneficial spices for us. From boosting digestion to relieving body ache and soreness, here are eight uses and benefits of ginger so that you can make the most of it.

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1. Fight infections with ginger

Ginger is one of the most popular and effective remedies to fight infections and flu-like symptoms. Gingerol is a bioactive substance present in ginger that curbs different types of bacteria. And it also has many antioxidants that help in preventing common colds.

You can use ginger in any form — dried, fresh, or powdered. Adding about 2 tablespoons of ginger powder to your daily meals can fight off infections and make your meals taste even better.

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2. Ginger can make your appetite better

Many times, we lose our appetite and it limits our intake of healthy food. Having proper meals is essential for your body to work properly. Loss of appetite may make you feel weak, dizzy, and fatigued. Fresh ginger is an easy and effective remedy to increase your appetite.

Grate some fresh ginger in a bowl, and add some black salt and lemon juice. Chewing this mixture is one of the best ways to reap the health benefits of ginger.

3. Ease menstrual pain with ginger

We all know how nasty those period cramps can be! And since you can’t avoid the monthly ordeal, you can definitely lessen the discomfort and pain caused by it. Instead of popping painkillers every time, try using ginger instead. Ginger has properties that can relieve menstrual pain and discomfort.

Boil some water with ginger in it, and drink it with some lemon and honey to relieve menstrual cramps.

Related: Tips For Period Pain Which Will Make Your Menstrual Cycle So Much Easier

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4. Relieve nausea or morning sickness with ginger

Morning sickness or nausea are those uninvited guests that can give you a really hard time. But, like for so many other problems, ginger is your best friend in getting rid of them. The active compounds present in ginger help in relieving nausea. One of the best benefits of ginger!

A piping hot cup of ginger tea is the easiest and most effective way to help get rid of nausea or morning sickness.

5. Ginger can soothe sore muscles

If you’ve started working out after a long gap of not moving your muscles, you know the pain is real. Sore muscles and body ache can arise after a rigorous workout and can stay for a prolonged period of time. One of the most effective ways of soothing the pain is by either eating ginger or applying a ginger compress to the affected areas.

You can slice up fresh ginger and chew it raw for a day or two till the pain goes away. For a ginger compress, boil some water with a 2-inch piece of ginger and 2 teaspoons of cinnamon powder. Soak a clean cloth or towel in it and apply it on the affected area. Repeat till the cloth cools down. Doing this twice a day will help in relieving your pain quickly.

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6. Lower your cholesterol with ginger

High levels of bad cholesterol increase the risk of heart diseases in a person. In addition to having a healthy diet, you can add some ginger in it to reduce bad cholesterol levels.

Take two cups of water, add some ginger to it, and bring it to a boil. Pour it in a container and add some lemon slices and mint leaves to it. Keep it in the refrigerator to cool. Drink regularly throughout the day to manage cholesterol levels in your body.

7. Ginger can boost digestion and relieve stomach aches

Bad digestion can lead to frequent stomach aches. Ginger can help boost digestion and empty your stomach faster. Consuming ginger in any form before meals works as an effective remedy for stomach aches caused by indigestion.

The easiest way to consume ginger is by eating it raw, but if you can’t do that, you can make juice out of it. All you need is one ginger root, one apple and one carrot. Wash and slice all of them and blend them in a food processor. Strain the mixture and drink it if you’re getting an indigestion-related stomach ache.

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8. Ginger reduces inflammation

Ginger has many anti-inflammatory properties and can be used to treat the inflammation caused by conditions like osteoarthritis. This kitchen staple is a natural and efficient remedy for the joint pain and stiffness that comes with osteoarthritis.

In a bowl, mix fresh ginger along with cinnamon and sesame oil. Apply this mixture to the affected areas regularly to see the best results.

Did you know that, just like ginger, turmeric is also an essential spice for your health? Here are some benefits of haldi that prove why it should be a part of your daily routine.