Pungent, flavorful and aromatic; ginger is one ultra nutritious herb that is used as a spice. Not only does it add a great flavor and zest to any dish, ginger also boasts of plenty of therapeutic health benefits.

Ginger is a herb that belongs to the Zingiberaceae family, the same family as turmeric and cardamom. Known for therapeutic properties, ginger is a herb that can be used in drinks (tea), and cooking.

In Ayurveda, the ancient alternative system of medicine, ginger is considered Mother Nature’s natural medicine that helps treat many ailments. In India and many other Asian countries, ginger is ubiquitous among culinary specialties. Let’s have a look at some of the benefits using this wonder spice/herb in your meals:

Time-tested herb for stomach problems
Ginger is a time-tested herb that purportedly has numerous digestion-friendly properties. This wonder herb has been used for thousands of years for effectively providing relief in gastrointestinal distress. Ginger is rich in powerful antioxidants that help facilitate food absorption, reduce inflammation and improve digestion. Ginger is widely used around the world for treating loss of appetite.

Battles cold and flu
Cold and flu are health issues that are quite bothersome for many people. Instead of, or as an adjunct to over-the-counter cold remedies, why not head to kitchen for a natural cure. Ginger has been used for centuries as an effective remedy for treating and preventing cold and flu symptoms. Try some chopped ginger steeped in hot water two or three times a day to fight cold and flu.

Nature’s cure for morning sickness
Suffering from morning sickness? Feeling nauseated? Try ginger powder or chew ginger dipped in honey. This herb is your best natural remedy when you are experiencing nausea. In fact, folklore has it that ginger is far better and more effective that many over-the-counter prescription drugs for relieving symptoms associated with morning sickness or motion sickness such as nausea, cold sweating, vomiting, and dizziness.

Treats respiratory problems
For relief from persistent cough, mix some ginger with honey, black pepper and basil leaves in hot water. This interesting herbal concoction helps break up phlegm, ultimately providing some relief with respiratory problems.

Strengthen immunity
Ginger strengthens immunity to protect your body against many ills such as throat infection, cough, stomach infections and more.

Other benefits
Ginger is rich in magnesium, zinc and chromium and aids in improving blood circulation. As ginger contains anti-inflammatory properties, it can help provide relief for joint pain.

Next time, you feel nausea or experience a cold or stomach cramps, head to the kitchen and chop up some ginger. It is a treasure trove of nutrients that can help treat and prevent many ailments.