NUTRITION&FOOD Published October25, 2014 By Angela Betsaida Laguipo

Chemical Composition Of Ginger Revealed, Health Benefits Cited

(Photo : commons.wikimedia.org) Ginger contain potent ingredients that help make it an effective cure for many diseases.

Ginger is well known globally for the many health benefits it possesses. However, what are the chemical compounds found inside ginger and why can it cure many diseases? Without these nutrients and components, ginger cannot perform the medicinal actions it has to treat many illnesses.

Same with turmeric, it contains volatile oils. These oils are geranial, neral, 1,8-cineole, zingiberene, β-bisabolene and β-sesquiphellandren which are antioxidants that battle free radicals to save the cells from damage and injury. Also, this volatile oil has antimicrobial properties that help prevent infection.

Aside from that, it contains Zingibain which is a proteolytic enzyme that helps break down proteins and can aid in improving digestion. It neutralizes the acids in the stomach for better digestion. Also, Gingerols, which are the active constituents of ginger, have good anti-inflammatory effects. It also protects the liver from damage and reduces cardiotonic effects. It has antimicrobial and anti-cancer properties.

Caffeic acid was found to help liver health by instigating chemoprevention. It decreases cancer of the liver risks and constrains the development of liver tumors. Aside from that, it has antioxidant properties to help cells from damage.

Capsaicin is what makes ginger spicy and is found in chili peppers too. It is a phytochemical which can prevent cancer, offer pain relief, relieve nasal congestion, diminishes inflammation, releases intestinal and abdominal diseases, helps in burning fat, and promotes heart health.

It contains beta-sitosterol and beta-carotenes. Beta-sitosterol is a plant sterol which is known for lessening cholesterol levels in the body. It is utilized in the management of prostate cancer. It has the ability to constrain cancer cell growth in the prostate and also in the colon.

Lastly, it contains Vitamin C which is good for the immune system, skin and in fighting free radicals. It can help prevent aging of the different parts of the body including the skin.

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