Ginger or adrak offers a variety of benefits. Amidst the seasonal change and the rise in viral infections, here’s why ginger may bring more health benefits to the diet.
The monsoon season brings with it a host of viral infections. Cases of dengue, malaria, and recently Zika and chandipura viruses are increasing drastically in India. In the face of ongoing global health challenges and rising viral infections, the humble ginger root has emerged as a powerful ally in our quest for wellness. Ginger or adrak is a household food used to add flavour to food. History is a testament to the medicinal use of adrak. From ginger tea, ginger shots to ginger water, there are different ways to incorporate it into your diet.
5 benefits of consuming ginger in times of pandemic
- Strengthens the immune system: Active compounds in ginger, such as gingerol and shogaol, have been widely studied for their ability to enhance the activity of immune cells, including natural killer cells and T cells. By strengthening the body’s natural defenses, ginger may help prevent the onset of severe symptoms and reduce the duration of viral illnesses.
- Anti-inflammatory properties: Viral infections can trigger an inflammatory response in the body, leading to symptoms such as fever, body aches, and shortness of breath. Ginger’s powerful anti-inflammatory compounds can help mitigate this inflammatory reaction, providing relief and reducing the severity of symptoms.
- Antiviral potential: Recent research has shown that ginger has the ability to inhibit the replication of certain viruses, including influenza, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), and even SARS-CoV-2, the virus responsible for COVID-19. By interfering with the virus’ ability to replicate and spread, ginger may play a role in limiting the progression and transmission of these infectious agents.
- Digestive support: Viral infections can often cause decreased appetite and digestive discomfort. Ginger’s well-known ability to aid digestion may be especially beneficial during times of heightened viral activity, as it can help maintain proper nutrient absorption and relieve gastrointestinal symptoms.
- Soothing relief: The warming properties of ginger can provide comfort and soothe a sore throat, a common symptom associated with viral illnesses. Incorporating ginger into warm drinks or recipes can offer a natural and comforting way to ease respiratory discomfort and aid the body’s healing process.
Incorporating ginger into your daily routine can be as simple as adding it to a cup of tea, incorporating it into a stir-fry, or even enjoying it as a refreshing ginger lemonade. The versatility of this extraordinary root allows for easy integration into a wide range of culinary and beverage options, making it accessible and convenient for people of all ages and dietary preferences.
As we face the challenges posed by rising viral infections, the importance of harnessing the power of ginger cannot be overstated. By harnessing its multifaceted benefits, we can bolster our body’s natural defenses, mitigate the severity of symptoms, and potentially contribute to the overall resilience of our communities in the face of these infectious threats. However, one must be careful about how ginger acts on each individual and consume it accordingly.
