Ginger cultivation originally began in South Asia, but is also widespread in East Africa and the Caribbean. It is used in cooking, medicine and perfumery, while it is also used for religious purposes.
Ginger is a perennial medicinal plant that has a tuberous rhizome with characteristic brown skin on the outside, while inside it is light yellow in color and emits a characteristic spicy and lemony aroma.
Asince 1585, Jamaican ginger was the first oriental spice to be cultivated in America and her Oceania, and was subsequently introduced into Europe. India currently holds the lead in production, replacing China, which is the second largest producer. It is followed by Indonesia, Nepal and Thailand. Jamaican quality is considered better.
Properties of ginger:
- It contributes to the regulation of our immune system.
- It has antioxidant and anticancer properties.
- It improves the functioning of the digestive system.
- It enhances the absorption of nutrients from food.
- It increases burning, reduces the feeling of hunger, promotes fat burning and therefore contributes to weight loss.
- Prevents diseases of the gastrointestinal system
- It works against nausea, stomach ache and headaches.
- It helps in the treatment of ulcers caused by Helicobacter pylori thanks to its strong antibacterial effect.
- It also relieves the symptoms of gastritis.
- It acts against the E. Coli bacteria which is largely responsible for the manifestation of gastroenteritis and at the same time reduces diarrhea.
- It helps to cope thes constipations.
- It balances the sugar levels
- It lowers cholesterol levels, helps control blood pressure and has an active role in preventing atherosclerosis.
- Relieves cold symptoms
- It relieves from asthma symptoms
- It enhances blood circulation and relieves cramps
- Relieves toothache
- Limits bad breath tof the mouth
- Contributes to the decongestion of a blocked nose
Caution!
Its consumption during pregnancy is not recommended because it may cause labor to begin.
It is not recommended for use by people suffering from gallstones.
Also, an excessive dosage such as consuming more than 4 grams per day may cause bloating, abdominal pain, diarrhea or heartburn, belching and general stomach discomfort. Some women have reported heavier menstrual bleeding when taking ginger.
Dnutritional value
A thin slice of ginger, weighing only 2 grams, provides 1.6 calories (kcal) and contains:
- Fatty acids: 0.7 mg omega-3 fatty acids and 2.4 mg omega-6 fatty acids
- Vitamins: 0.1 mg vitamin C and 0.2 mg folic acid
- Trace elements: 0.3 mg calcium, 0.9 mg magnesium, 0.7 mg phosphorus and 8.3 mg potassium
- Substances with antioxidant properties: These include capsaicin, beta-carotenes, caffeic acid and curcumin.
Pileaders: https://el.wikipedia.org/wiki/%CE%A0%CE%B9%CF%80%CE%B5%CF%81%CF%8C%CF%81%CE%B9%CE%B6%CE%B1
https://www.tanea.gr/2016/03/13/health/i-diatrofiki-aksia-toy-tzintzer/
