For thousands of years, people have used ginger, the “root” or rhizome, of the plant “Zingiber officinale”, as a popular spice and herbal remedy. Arabic, Indian, and Asian medicinal traditions have traditionally used ginger for various purposes. For instance, ginger has been used for more than 2,000 years in China to aid with digestion and alleviate nausea, diarrhea, and upset stomachs.
In addition, ginger has been used to treat heart problems, colic, arthritis, and diarrhea. It has been used to treat headaches, menstrual cramps, flu-like symptoms, and the common cold. Asians, the original users of ginger, have been using it as a cooking spice for over 4,400 years.
Key Takeaways
- Anti-inflammatory Relief: Ginger’s potent anti-inflammatory properties can help alleviate knee pain by reducing inflammation.
- External Application: Applying a hot ginger compress externally can provide relief from knee pain and inflammation.
- Consultation Required: Before using ginger for knee pain, it’s crucial to consult a healthcare professional, especially if you have allergies or are taking medications.
Ginger For Arthritis: Unlocking Its Medicinal Benefits
The antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties of ginger help reduce joint pain and diseases like osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. Studies have indicated that ginger possesses aspirin-like anti-inflammatory enzymes due to its notable effect on inflammation. According to the study, the anti-inflammatory properties of ginger may have similar effects to those of COX-2 inhibitor medications, which are prescribed to alleviate pain and inflammation.
Additionally, it has also shown a reduction in the expression of genes. Researchers also note that ginger may develop as an alternative to nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs in the future. Apart from managing rheumatoid arthritis, ginger also helps to prevent bone destruction.
The wide variety of over 1300 ginger plants contains several nutrients, including vitamin C, and vitamin B6, minerals like magnesium, potassium, and copper, and phytonutrients and polyphenols like gingerols, shogaols, and paradols.
The Power Of Ginger Intake
Ginger can be used in several ways, depending on the purpose of its use. Some of the common ways to have ginger are:
- Mixing ginger root or powdered ginger into sweet or savory dishes
- Making ginger tea
- Using lozenges
- Consuming ginger in capsule form
- Applying cream and oils made of ginger
- Using a hot ginger compress
Use Of Hot Ginger Compress For Pain And Inflammation
In addition to its beneficial effects when ingested, ginger root can also be used externally for pain management and detoxification. A hot compress made of ginger is a macrobiotic treatment. It breaks up mucous and interior obstructions and releases tension and pain when applied to the skin.
Benefits Of Ginger Compress
The ginger compass is generally used for swelling and inflammatory conditions like intestinal inflammation, bladder inflammation, and bronchitis. It can also be used for acute knee pain, arthritis, back pain, stiff necks, kidney stones, and toothaches. Minor muscle pains and soft tissue damage can also be treated with ginger compress, as it speeds up regeneration.
How To Make A Soothing Hot Ginger Compress: Step-By-Step Guide
- Wrap and tie one ounce of grated ginger in a thin cloth.
- Add the ginger to a large pot of boiling water and soak it for at least five minutes.
- Dip a towel into the hot ginger water and wring out the excess.
- Apply the hot towel to the affected area and cover it with a dry towel to withhold the heat.
- Re-soak the towel and repeat the process for 15–20 minutes.
It is advisable to not use the hot ginger compress more than once a week, and it should be avoided during a high fever.
Is Ginger Intake Safe For The Body?
According to experts, consuming small amounts of ginger is safe for the human body. Adverse effects are rare and happen only when consuming more than 6g per day. Consuming ginger beyond the prescribed amount can cause problems like:
- Indigestion
- Diarrhea
- Heartburn
- Gastrointestinal reflux
- Low blood pressure
- Risks of gallstones
- Bleeding problems in people consuming warfarin
Additional negative effects, such as an allergic response, dermatitis, or irritation, are also possible. Anyone who feels like experiencing such allergies or reactions should seek medical help from healthcare providers. It is recommended to try a small amount of creams and ointments containing ginger for 24 hours before using them on the affected area. It would help to identify the negative effects, if any.
Before increasing the ginger intake, it is crucial to see a doctor because ginger may not be suitable for everyone and may interact with certain medications and drugs, such as blood thinners.
Appropriate Dosage Of Ginger
According to experts, consuming up to 4 grams of ginger daily may help control the symptoms of arthritis, as this amount is generally safe to consume.
Ginger pills are the most convenient form of ginger intake. Alternatively, it could be incorporated into a diet or applied as a ginger cream. According to the Arthritis Foundation (AF), ginger can be taken as an oil, pill, tincture, powder, or extract. They advise consuming up to four cups of ginger tea, or a maximum of 2g, split into three doses, each day.
Significantly, according to an AF survey, just 50% of the products evaluated fulfilled quality standards. There may be worries regarding the safety, purity, or quality of supplements because the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) does not keep an eye on items made with ginger.
Conclusion
Ginger is a great supplement to an arthritis therapy regimen for many people. In addition to easing the symptoms of arthritis, ginger can also improve the overall immunity of a person. However, it is important to consult a doctor before incorporating ginger supplements into the diet, as they may cause adverse effects to people who are allergic to its components or to people who are taking medications.
