Ginger is a pungent herb that has been used therapeutically for hundreds of years in multiple cultures, including Chinese and Arabic alternative medicines, and touted to treat a variety of conditions, including arthritis, diarrhea, nausea and headaches, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Although some of these applications have not been scientifically authenticated been disproved, ginger is still beneficial to your health, particularly when treating diarrhea and nausea. It can also help reduce inflammation in the body. Ginger can be incorporated in recipes, made into a tea, or taken as an oral supplement depending on your personal preference.
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Incorporate small amounts of ginger into stir fry dishes and sauteed vegetables. Use ginger somewhat sparingly; The University of Maryland Medical Center does not recommend eating more than 4 g of ginger daily, but research conducted by American scientists found that 2 g ginger root daily can ease pain in the muscles, according to DailyMail.co.uk.
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Enjoy small amounts of ginger through ginger products like ginger ale and ginger bread. While these foods often consist of 0.5 percent or less actual ginger, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center, they can provide small amounts of ginger that may benefit your health.
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Steep 2 tbsp. shredded ginger for a few minutes in a cup of hot water. Use honey to sweeten. This can be used to treat a number of conditions, including cold and flu symptoms and menstrual cramps. Drink this tea up to three times daily.
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Consume 1 g powdered ginger four times daily to help prevent vomiting.
Tip
Talk to your doctor before giving ginger to a child.
Warnings
Do not give ginger to children under two years of age.
Overdosing on ginger rarely causes unwanted side effects. But some side effects can include heartburn, diarrhea, upset stomach or belching.
Talk to your doctor before using ginger if you have gallstones or are taking a blood-thinning medication.
