Ginger is a flowering plant whose rhizome, ginger root or ginger, is widely used as a spice and a folk medicine. It is a herbaceous perennial which grows annual pseudostems about one meter tall bearing narrow leaf blades. Ginger is loaded with antioxidants, compounds that prevent stress and damage to your body's DNA. They may help your body fight off chronic diseases like high blood pressure, heart disease, and diseases of the lungs, plus promote healthy aging. Millions of people the world over swear by the healing power of ginger. You can eat it whole, ground, cooked or raw. Ginger is a spicy root that has proven to be an effective natural remedy for some common diseases. As rhizomes, ginger and turmeric look similar. When found at the grocery store, both roots are brown and knotty-looking plant stems; however, the visual difference between yellow ginger and turmeric is evident in their powdered form. Ground ginger is tan or pale yellow, while turmeric powder is a golden orange. Ginger belongs to the Zingiberaceae family, which also includes turmeric and cardamom (1). Meanwhile, garlic belongs to the Amaryllidaceae family, which includes onions, chives, and leeks (2). Ginger is lower in price. The active biological compounds in ginger include gingerols, shogaols, and paradols (3). Ginger, though touted online, isn't scientifically proven to promote hair growth or prevent hair loss. Still, you may benefit from its anti-inflammatory effects if you have certain scalp conditions. Despite the fact that ginger is a natural substance, it can present side effects in some people. When taken by mouth: Ginger is likely safe. It can cause mild side effects including heartburn, diarrhea, burping, and general stomach discomfort. Taking higher doses of 5 grams daily increases the risk for side effects. Chop or grate it into sauces, salad dressings, or right on top of your salad, poultry or seafood. Snack on candied ginger or make it part of your dessert. Use pickled ginger as a condiment. Drink freshly brewed tea steeped along with a thumbnail piece of chopped ginger daily.
