Ginger is a plant that is used as a food flavoring and medicine. It contains several active ingredients that have potential health benefits, including sesquiterpene hydrocarbons, phenolic compounds such as gingerol and shogaol, and lipophilic rhizome. Ginger has been found to positively affect memory function and exhibit anti-neuroinflammatory activity. It is commonly used to reduce nausea and swelling, and is also used for menstrual cramps, osteoarthritis, diabetes, migraine headaches, and other conditions. However, there is no good scientific evidence to support many of these uses. Ginger is possibly safe when taken by mouth for up to 4 days by teenagers around the age of 15. When applied to the skin, ginger is possibly safe when used short-term, but it might cause skin irritation for some people. Ginger oil is reputed to have many therapeutic properties, including anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and anti-nausea effects. It is used in aromatherapy applications and can be diffused to improve mood and energy levels. Some of the specific benefits and uses of ginger oil include:
- Cosmetic: Tonic, Stimulant, Warming, Anti-Inflammatory, Firming
- Odorous: Tonic, Stimulant, Warming, Expectorant, Analgesic, Anti-Inflammatory, Aphrodisiac, Memory-Enhancing, Soothing, Anti-Nausea, Appetite-Boosting, Immune-Boosting
- Medicinal: Antiseptic, Laxative, Tonic, Stimulant, Warming, Digestive, Carminative, Expectorant, Analgesic, Anti-Inflammatory, Antispasmodic, Soothing, Anti-nausea, Appetite-Boosting, Circulatory, Diuretic, Detoxifying, Immune-Boosting, Sudorific
It is important to note that ginger may interact with certain medications, such as blood thinners, and should be used with caution in these cases.
