While many of you are most likely familiar with ginger by appearance and name, many are probably unaware that this spice should be permanently on hand in the kitchen as its medicinal properties are so numerous. There are more than 40 of them.

The therapeutic uses of ginger have been known for at least 2000 years across the globe and in cultures around the world. This plant is of Asian origin but is also widespread in India, the Middle East, Africa and the Caribbean as well as in Europe and the United States.

This root with the fine and brownish skin, and the firm, yellow and perfumed interior flesh, preserves itself very well and a long time in the refrigerator.

The most commonly used part of the plant is the rhizome i.e. the root that grows underground. This rhizome is excessively rich in antioxidants whose names you certainly ignore (ingérol, shogaol, zingerone). It is also among other things a powerful broad spectrum antibacterial, antiviral and antiparasitic agent.

Its anti-inflammatory properties allow it to rival the chemical molecules of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) in effectively relieving many severe pains. This has been proven many times over by multiple studies.

In 2013, a study found that female athletes could avoid taking ibuprofen for menstrual pain and cramps by taking 3 grams of ginger or cinnamon daily.

The pain-relieving scope of ginger appears to be quite broad as it acts both chronically and acutely and covers muscle and joint pain as well as migraines.

Another recent study presented at the American Thoracic Society International Conference found that coupling ginger with isoproterenol (a beta-agonist asthma medication) improved its bronchodilator effects. Because ginger improves bronchodilation, it is an interesting alternative with no side effects for people who want to avoid taking chemicals for their asthma problems.

The "British Journal of nutrition" recently mentioned the results of research conducted in vitro that demonstrated the effectiveness of ginger on cancer cells. This makes it possible to foresee an in vivo effectiveness for the treatment of prostate cancer for example. Moreover, other research has demonstrated its anti-tumor activity which could help to overcome difficult cancers such as lung, ovarian, colon, breast, skin or pancreatic.

As an accompaniment to chemical treatments such as chemotherapy, ginger has been shown to mitigate their toxic effects. A protective effect has also been noted against environmental pollution such as parabens.

One thing is certain, whether it is a question of degenerative or chronic inflammatory diseases such as diabetes, ginger will be useful in both preventive and curative ways. With regard to diabetes, it seems to act on the release and action of insulin, but also on the whole metabolism of carbohydrates and lipids.

After consuming 3 grams of dry ginger powder for 30 days, diabetics showed (supporting analysis) a significant reduction in blood sugar, triglycerides and total cholesterol.

The ginger would also have a protective effect towards diabetes complications. It would offer protection to the liver, kidneys, central nervous system and eyes of diabetics.

This spice is also valuable in case of digestive disorders of all kinds. It acts as well on motion sickness, on nausea and vomiting in pregnant women as on digestive disorders in general.

Daily supplementation reduces the severity of chemotherapy-induced nausea

This rhizome also has antispasmodic virtues. It helps regulate acid secretions in the stomach and provides relief from hyperacidity and sourness. Useful along the intestinal tract, it is active on Helicobacter pylori and thus helps prevent ulcers, while protecting the digestive mucosa.

Since ginger is a tonic and metabolic booster, by increasing the body's thermogenesis, it helps burn stored fat by using it to create heat. Consuming thermogenic ingredients like ginger increases overall basal metabolism by nearly 5% and fat burning by up to 16%. This results in a reduction in fat storage.

Here are some other beneficial effects of this fabulous spice:

• Improved cognitive function and reduced memory loss,
• Protection against certain viruses of the respiratory sphere,
• Improved digestion and absorption of fats,
• Contribution to the prevention of heart attacks,
• Prevent and treat liver diseases such as non-alcoholic steatosis,
• Prevention and care of drug-resistant bacterial and fungal infections, as well as diarrhea of bacterial origin,
• Protection of DNA from harmful radiation.

You will be able to customize the use of this spice: dry extracts, fresh root, herbal tea or decoction, everything is good to enjoy the benefits of this plant.

The infusion of a few centimeters of this root in hot water will warm you up in winter. This same infusion placed in the refrigerator and added to fresh mint or lemon juice will make you happy in summer by refreshing you. Thinly sliced, grated or chopped, added to your cooked dishes, salads or soups, ginger can be put to any use.

Put your creativity to work for your health!