GINGER
(Zingiber officinale)
Table of contents
What is ginger?
Ginger (Zingiber officinale) is a plant of the Zingiberaceae family whose rhizome, with a spicy taste and fresh aroma, has become an essential ingredient in both gastronomy and traditional medicine. It is also known as kion in Peru or luya in the Philippines, reflecting its wide cultural reach.
Native to the tropical forests of South Asia, ginger is considered one of the first spices to cross continents thanks to ancient trade routes. It arrived in Europe via the spice trade and was highly valued by the Greeks and Romans, not only for its ability to enhance flavours but also for its digestive and stimulating effects.
The ginger plant can grow up to 2 metres tall, with long, narrow leaves exceeding 20 cm. It produces basal inflorescences and capsule fruits containing shiny black seeds covered by a white aril. However, the most prized part is its underground rhizome, which concentrates the aromatic and spicy compounds responsible for its unique character.
Today, ginger is cultivated in many tropical and subtropical regions and remains one of the most valued spices in kitchens and herbal medicine around the world.
Properties of ginger
● Anti-inflammatory → thanks to compounds such as gingerols and shogaols, it helps reduce inflammation.
● Antioxidant → neutralises free radicals, protecting cells from oxidative damage.
● Digestive → stimulates the production of digestive enzymes and supports intestinal motility.
● Carminative → helps reduce the formation of intestinal gas.
● Antiemetic → prevents and soothes nausea and vomiting.
● Natural analgesia → acts as a pain reliever for mild aches and migraines.
● Antimicrobial and antifungal → combats harmful bacteria and fungi.
● Expectorant and antitussive → helps expel mucus and calms coughs.
● Natural anticoagulant → thins the blood and improves circulation.
● Vasodilator → promotes elasticity of blood vessels.
● Thermogenic → raises body temperature and stimulates metabolism.
● Immunostimulant → strengthens the body’s defences.
● Antispasmodic → relaxes the digestive system and relieves cramps.
Benefits of ginger
● Improves digestion: promotes the production of gastric juices and digestive enzymes, relieving heartburn and intestinal discomfort.
● Regulates cholesterol: helps reduce “bad” (LDL) cholesterol and supports cardiovascular health.
● Prevents infections: contains antimicrobial compounds capable of acting against bacteria such as E. coli or Salmonella.
● Detoxifying and diuretic effect: contributes to toxin elimination and improves liver function.
● Supports weight loss: speeds up metabolism thanks to its thermogenic effect and helps burn fat.
● Controls appetite: when taken in water or as an infusion, it provides a feeling of fullness and helps avoid snacking between meals.
● Relieves nausea: particularly effective for motion sickness, travel, or during pregnancy (always under medical supervision).
● Soothes menstrual and muscle pain: thanks to its natural anti-inflammatory properties.
● Reduces intestinal inflammation: helps improve chronic digestive discomfort and may support colon health.
● Improves circulation: helps thin the blood, reduces blood pressure and keeps arteries more flexible.
● Natural aphrodisiac: by stimulating circulation, it promotes vitality and sexual desire.
● Warming effect: a ginger infusion is ideal for warming up on cold days.
● Contributes to emotional well-being: its revitalising action helps combat tiredness and provides a sense of energy and uplift.
Contraindications of ginger
Ginger is a very healthy and generally safe root, but as with any food or medicinal plant, consumption should be moderate and mindful of specific circumstances. Excessive or inappropriate use may cause adverse effects or interact with certain medications.
Main contraindications of ginger:
● Digestive issues: in high doses it may cause heartburn, reflux, stomach irritation or diarrhoea.
● Gallstones: may stimulate bile production and worsen the condition in people with gallbladder stones.
● Hypertension: excessive intake may raise blood pressure in sensitive individuals.
● Bleeding disorders: due to its natural anticoagulant effect, it is not recommended for people with clotting problems.
● Anticoagulant or antiplatelet drugs: may potentiate the effect of medicines such as aspirin, warfarin or heparin.
● Pregnancy: although it can help control nausea, consumption should be supervised by a professional, as high doses could stimulate uterine contractions.
● Very thin people or those with a fast metabolism: its thermogenic effect may lead to excessive weight loss.
● Young children: regular use is not recommended in children under 6 years without medical supervision.
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