The health benefits of ground ginger, how to use it, contraindications, and harm

Ground ginger root is known for its pleasant aroma and unforgettable flavor, making it a popular addition to many dishes. However, this plant is used for more than just cooking. It is also used medicinally to treat a variety of ailments. Before using ground ginger, it's important to understand its contraindications and benefits.

Dry ground ginger: properties

The beneficial properties of dried ginger have been known since ancient times. Even then, the plant's root was used to treat a variety of common ailments. The following beneficial properties are noted:

• diaphoretic;
• antioxidant;
• tonic;
• bactericidal;
• absorbent.

The ground root of the plant also has antimicrobial properties, allowing it to be used to treat illnesses caused by pathogenic microbes. Ginger decoctions and tinctures are often used to combat such illnesses.

Ground ginger root is a versatile medicinal plant and has properties that help combat bad breath and even malignant cancerous tumors.

The effectiveness of ginger remedies depends on their form. For example, powder is excellent for digestive issues, while decoctions are effective for liver and kidney diseases.

Description

Ground dried ginger is a well-known spice, used since ancient India. Even then, ginger powder was widely used in cooking to impart a pleasant aroma to dishes and in medicine to relieve the symptoms of viral and microbial diseases. The oils contained in ground ginger made it one of the most common components in medicines.

In those distant times, grated ginger root was even used as currency. It was very expensive, so just a few grams of powder could buy a lot. However, today, it is used exclusively in medicine and cooking.

This plant is classified as a perennial herb. Its narrow, elongated leaves resemble those of reeds. During flowering, small flowers appear on the spice, which turn purple with a yellowish tint. The flowers are distinguished by their unique scent, which can be detected even from a distance of 2-3 meters.

However, the plant is valued not for its flowers, but for its root. It is from this root that spices are prepared and later added to dishes.

Nutritional value

To understand the nutritional value of ground ginger, you need to familiarize yourself with its ingredients. This will also help you determine how much ginger powder to buy.

Vitamins

The roots contain B vitamins, essential for the normal functioning of blood vessels and the heart. They also improve the body's defenses by strengthening the immune system. Furthermore, ground ginger is rich in vitamin C, which effectively combats the symptoms of colds. This is why many doctors recommend ginger infusions and decoctions for cold patients.

Minerals

The root contains ginerol and many other minerals, making it beneficial for the human body. It contains a lot of zinc, phosphorus, and magnesium, which are responsible for maintaining joint and bone density. Therefore, regularly consuming spicy dishes and medicinal infusions helps strengthen joints in the elderly.

Some doctors emphasize the presence of cineole in the roots. What are the benefits of this component? It effectively combats fatigue, dizziness, and persistent migraines. This trace element can also alleviate symptoms of depression and improve mood.

Uses of dry ground ginger

Ginger powder has various uses. Ground ginger powder is most commonly used in cosmetology, cooking, and medicine.

In cooking

In the past, it was highly prized for a pinch, but today everything has changed, and grated ginger roots are actively used as a seasoning rather than a currency. To prepare the spice for adding to dishes, you need to thoroughly dry the ginger and grate it into powder. It pairs well with peas, grated cheese, and grain dishes. It can also be used to make delicious gingerbread.

In folk medicine

It's no secret that the plant's roots are beneficial for health and are often used in folk medicine. The ground powder can be used to make:

• A weight loss remedy. To prepare it, mix grated ginger root with turmeric in a ten-to-one ratio. The resulting mixture curbs appetite and prevents overeating.
• Anti-diarrhea remedy. Ginger tincture is the best remedy for intestinal problems. To make the remedy, add 40 grams of powder to a liter of hot water, let it steep for 35 minutes, and drink it daily before meals.

In cosmetology

People who use ginger spice only for cooking don't realize that it can be used for skin rejuvenation. It's used to make:

• A face mask. This is the best way to moisturize your skin and reduce wrinkles. To make it, mix the powder with honey in a two-to-one ratio. Use the prepared mask at least twice a week.
• Hair mask. Add a tablespoon of honey to a container with 20 grams of powder. Mix the ingredients until a smooth, thick mixture is formed, then apply it to your hair.

Contraindications

Dried ginger is the most common spice, and its benefits and side effects are of interest to many. Before using this spice, it's best to familiarize yourself with its contraindications. People with gastritis, high body temperature, heart conditions, and pregnant women should use the powder with caution.

If a person for whom a spice is contraindicated adds it to food anyway, side effects may occur. These include vomiting, nausea, indigestion, and allergic reactions such as skin rashes.

Recipes for cooking dishes

Many homemakers enjoy recipes that incorporate ginger. These include:

• Pork in ginger sauce. To prepare this delicious dish, peel the garlic, chop the bell pepper, and mince the ingredients. Then add the chopped pork pieces to the pan. The meat is baked in the oven for 40 minutes at 15 degrees Celsius (59 degrees Fahrenheit). Then, sprinkle it with ginger powder. When adding the spice, be careful not to overdo it.
• Curry. Coat a frying pan with vegetable oil. Heat it and add 50 grams of chopped zucchini. Simmer for 10 minutes, then add garlic and pepper. After half an hour, pour the mixture into bowls and sprinkle with seasoning.

Conclusion

Ground ginger is a common spice added to a variety of dishes. Before using it, it's important to familiarize yourself with the properties of grated ginger root.