Ginger Root (Zingiber officinale)
Benefits of Ginger Root
- Digestion
- Metabolism
- Where it's from: Native to Southeast Asia and India
- Form: Powder
- Food source: Ginger
What is Ginger Root?
The root of the Ginger plant is used as a spice in cooking around the world for its unique flavour. It has also been used in Ayurvedic medicine for centuries, and today it is one of the most studied culinary spices, particularly in relation to digestion.
The main active compounds in Ginger are called 'gingerols' and 'shogaols'. Ginger also contains an enzyme called 'zingibain', which breaks down protein.
What does the research say about Ginger Root?
Gingerols and shogaols have antioxidant activity, meaning they neutralise 'free radicals', the unstable molecules involved in oxidative stress. Researchers have also looked at how gingerols and shogaols interact with the body's 'prostaglandin' and 'leukotriene' pathways, known as 'COX' and 'LOX'.
Ginger has been studied in relation to the cardiovascular system too, including the collagen and elasticity of blood vessel walls and heart health more widely. A clinical study has looked at its effect on fasting blood sugar and blood lipid markers.
Ginger has also been studied for its effect on the speed at which the stomach empties after eating. A systematic review of clinical trials has looked at ginger's effects across the digestive tract, including the oesophagus and stomach emptying.
Give this Immune-supporting Ginger Tea (Ve) a try.
Inositol
Inositol is a type of sugar produced by our kidneys and used throughout our body, in particular in our brain and in cell membranes, and it influences the effectiveness of insulin.
L-Glycine
L-Glycine is an amino acid that has a calming and regenerative effect, reducing the time it takes to fall asleep, enhancing sleep quality, and reducing feelings of tiredness during the day.
L-Lysine
L-Lysine helps to support bones, joints and muscles, collagen production and calcium absorption.
L-Proline
L-Proline is a unique, skin-loving amino acid that is an essential component of collagen production.
Lycopene
Lycopene is a compound responsible for the bright red colour it gives to tomatoes, grapefruits and watermelons, among other fruits and vegetables. It is characterised by its high 'antioxidant' content which is the highest among carotenoid pigments.
Magnesium Citrate
Magnesium is a 'mineral superhero', supporting over 300 processes in the body. It is vital for psychological wellbeing, energy, relaxation, healthy mood, muscles, and bones.
Monacolin K - Red Yeast Extract
Red yeast rice and its active ingredient Monacolin-K has been used in traditional cultures for thousands of years to reduce cholesterol levels and stress on the heart.
Phytosterol Complex
Phytosterols (also known as plant sterols) work by helping prevent the absorption of dietary cholesterol in your blood.
