Vitamins, minerals, spices and natural supplements are being shown every day to provide vital health benefits, and ginger and turmeric are no different. These natural herbs and spices have been used as anti-inflammatory and antioxidant aids as well as providing therapeutic aid to the body's endocrine system. Both spices are used in traditional curry dishes, but they are not just a great seasoning but a very helpful tool in promoting good health, both individually and when combined.
Ginger
Ginger is a herb. The rhizome, or root, is used as a spice and can be used fresh, dried, in a juice or as an oil. Besides being a spice for many food dishes, ginger also has many medicinal qualities and uses. According to the National Institutes of Health, fresh ginger is used to treat bacterial dysentery, malaria, snake bites and rheumatism. Ginger juice can be used to treat burns and the oil can be applied topically to treat pain. A chemical compound found in ginger also is used to make laxatives. It has an aromatic smell and also is used to fragrance soaps and lotions.
Turmeric
According to the National Institute of Health, turmeric is a plant and a well-known spice used in traditional curry dishes. The turmeric root is where the medicinal properties lie, and it is widely used to make a variety of medicine. It has been used to treat heartburn, gas, jaundice, headaches, fibromyalgia, menstrual problems and even cancer. Curcumin is a chemical found in turmeric that works as a natural anti-inflammatory in your body.
Working Together
Numerous studies over the past few years have looked at the use of both ginger and turmeric together and their findings have shown promise. In a 2010 study published in "Inflammation," it showed that both ginger and turmeric have anti-inflammatory properties that may prove beneficial against the onset and progression of rheumatoid arthritis. Another study published in 2011 in the "American Journal of Chinese Medicine" showed that ginger and turmeric provide protection against inflammation and may be natural agents in fighting degenerative diseases.
Considerations
Before considering using ginger and turmeric, consult with your physician as there are some precautions of which you you need to be aware. If you take a medication such as Coumadin to thin your blood to reduce the risk of blood clots, ingesting ginger and turmeric can cause complications. Both are natural blood thinners and can greatly increase your risk of bleeding issues and bruising. If you are pregnant, ginger and turmeric in large quantities can cause problems for the pregnancy and should be avoided. Discuss all medications with your physician and she will be able to best advise you on the use of ginger and turmeric.
References
- MedlinePlus; Ginger; April 2011
- MedlinePlus; Turmeric; May 2011
- "Inflammation"; Anti-inflammatory and Anti-oxidant Properties of Curcuma Longa (Turmeric) Versus Zingiber Officinale (Ginger) Rhizomes ... ; G. Ramadan, et al.; December 2010
- "American Journal of Chinese Medicine"; Physiological and Therapeutical Roles of Ginger and Turmeric on Endocrine Functions; E.A. Al-Suhaimi, et al.; 2011
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