Ginger is one of the world’s healthiest and oldest spices. It’s popular in flavoring different cuisines and used in several forms of remedies. Ginger is well known for its ability to soothe an upset stomach by promoting digestion and reducing nausea. Simply having a spoonful of ginger and honey daily can help boost your immune system because it is loaded with antioxidant properties. These antioxidants work to prevent stress and damage to the body’s DNA and help to fight off chronic diseases. But there is one main element that gives fresh ginger its healing power, and pungent taste, and it’s called gingerol. 

Mind 

As you age it’s important to maintain good brain health and studies have shown that ginger supports brain function. The antioxidant properties of gingerol help to reduce inflammation in the brain which comes in the form of brain fog, depression, anxiety, irritability, anger, memory loss, and fatigue. Ginger increases the levels of chemicals such as dopamine and serotonin which are responsible for keeping us focused, productive, and in a positive mood. 

Body

Ginger is great for your digestive health. By consuming ginger before meals you increase your body’s ability to digest food quicker which leads to more energy. Researchers have found that approximately 60 percent of your body’s energy goes to metabolism. Also the quicker you can digest your food the more vitamins and minerals are absorbed by your body, making it a win-win for your energy levels. 

Skin

The anti-inflammatory benefits of the natural oils of gingerol can help reduce inflammation, soothe irritated skin, kill bacteria, and decrease the appearance of scars. Gingerol works to produce collagen and decrease toxins in skin cells while increasing blood circulation; creating a more youthful glow to the skin. It’s no wonder ginger is found in some of the top skincare products on the market. 

 

For a natural way to boost your energy try our Ginger Maca Smoothie.

 

Ginger Maca Smoothie

 

Ingredients 

1 cup non-dairy milk (oat milk, almond milk, 

1 inch piece of ginger 

1 banana 

¼ cup oatmeal

1 tbsp flaxseed meal 

1 tbsp Maca root powder  

¼ tsp cinnamon 

Organic local honey (desired amount)

 

Directions

Peel ginger skin with the back of a spoon or paring knife. Add all ingredients to a high powered blender (if you do not have a high powered blender, grate the ginger with a microplane grater or cheese grater) and blend until smooth.  Enjoy!