The use of ginger as an alternative treatment for illnesses has fast been gaining popularity within the last decade. Ginger was predominantly used as a spice for adding taste and flavor to dishes and as a herbal medicine. Now, it is used for a number of illnesses and has proven to be an effective alternative treatment. News of its healing capabilities have spread all around the globe and a vast number of people are now using ginger to cure illnesses. A contradictory argument may also arise though, that ginger has long been used to cure diseases, before even advancements in medicine. In this article, we would be looking at the medicinal uses of ginger, its benefits and probable side effect when taken in excess.

Ginger can be used in different forms – fresh, dry, powdered, in juices or tea or in oil forms. It is used as a spice or preservative in a lot of food, meat and drinks. It has a slightly pepperish, zesty taste and could be yellowish, red or white in colour.

Medicinal Uses of Ginger

• Respiratory Problems: Ginger can act as an expectorant (help you cough out phlegm) and helps easy breathing in individuals experiencing respiratory problems. Colds and coughs can be cured using ginger as it helps to ease the flow of mucus and expels phlegm. Ginger can also alleviate the problems of sore throat, allergies, bacterial infections and even tonsillitis. Ginger can be blended and mixed with warm water alone or in combination with other herbs and spices. This should be taken as many times as possible during the day. Ginger is also helpful for improving the quality of your voice and it is widely used by singers preparing for a show. Ginger can also be used for steam inhalation, this is useful in clearing congested nostrils and chest.
• Nausea and Fever: Ginger can also be used to  manage morning sickness during pregnancy, motion sickness and nausea. Ginger tea is therefore recommended for any individual experiencing nausea. It can also be used to treat fevers and headaches because of its pain relief properties which are similar to that of aspirin. It can also help prevent dizziness. People suffering nausea from taking cancer medications, HIV medications or after surgery will also benefit greatly from eating ginger.
• Stomach problems and Indigestion: Ginger promotes digestion in the body and is often prescribed for people experiencing stomachaches. It promotes better digestion and metabolism and helps to create appetite for individuals that are having problems eating food. Ginger also relieves spasm and relaxes gut muscles, is thus very useful in the management of stomach related problems such as heart burn, peptic ulcers, delayed stomach emptying of food, constipation, gas and bloating.
• Anti-inflammatory: Ginger has strong anti-inflammatory properties. Rheumatoid arthritis can also be treated with ginger and it can help alleviate problems of back pain and hurting knees. Ginger has a powerful anesthetic component that sees it act as a potent pain reliever and it can provide soothing relief to aching muscles, bones and joints in the body. Chewing little pieces of raw ginger or even ginger-based ointments can help aching bones.
• Menstrual and hormonal problems: Problems of amenorrhea and dysmenorrhea can also be managed with ginger. Boiling ginger and using the hot liquid for a compress placed below the tummy can ease the pain of menstrual cramps. This would promote blood flow and relax the body. Ginger can also be used to stimulate breast milk production if nursing mothers have difficulties.
• Antimicrobial effects: Ginger can inactivate a wide range of micro-organisms ranging from bacteria, fungus and viruses, it also boost the body’s immune system. Great in managing unpleasant mouth odours, tooth ache and as a food preservative.
• Antioxidant effects: A rich source of vitamins ACE, minerals and more. Thus ginger has heart protective, cancer protective and healthy aging properties.
• Blood sugar control: If you have diabetes please monitor your blood sugar after drinkong or eating a lot of ginger so it does not drop too low
  
• Insect repellant: Ginger can be ground into a paste and applied to the skin to prevent insect bites
• Diuretic effects: Increase urination

Conclusion

Ginger has a number of fantastic components that sees it serve as a cure for a wide array of illnesses. It is a natural remedy for most illnesses and can provide soothing relief for even physiological conditions. Although ginger is a natural food, it should be taken in moderation to avoid unwanted side effects.for instance, it is used to relieve constipation therefore excess may cause you to have loose stool or diarrhoea. Other probable side effects include blood thinning especiallly when combined with other foods that have the same effect on blood, cramping stomach ache, or irritation of the mouth.

Please ask your questions, comments are welcome.

Author: Dr. Nse