For centuries, turmeric and ginger have been used and studied extensively in Asian herbal medicine. Interestingly, both the ingredients have been used to treat a variety of ailments, ranging from migraines to chronic inflammation such as arthritis. They have scientifically proven to relieve pain, decrease nausea, and enhance immune function to help protect against illness and infection.
Both Ginger and Turmeric come from the part of the plant called the rhizome, a stem that grows underground and produces shoots off its sides, similar to a root system.
Top proven benefits of ginger and turmeric
Reduces chronic inflammation
Chronic inflammation plays a central role in the development of conditions like heart disease, cancer, and diabetes. It can also worsen symptoms associated with autoimmune conditions, such as rheumatoid arthritis and inflammatory bowel disease.
Ginger has medicinal properties that are due to the presence of phenolic compounds, including gingerol, a chemical thought to possess potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. On the other hand Curcumin in Turmeric exhibits strong anti-inflammatory properties too which could help in treating chronic inflammatory conditions.
Alleviates pain
Both ginger and turmeric have been studied for their ability to provide relief from chronic pain.
Osteoarthritis is the most common disease that can lead to chronic pain and severe disability. Curcumin- an effective ingredient in turmeric with anti- inflammatory properties can aid in relieving pain.
Support immune function
Both Ginger and Turmeric possesses powerful immune boosting properties. In many countries, turmeric and ginger are consumed at the first sign of sickness, hoping to enhance immune function and reduce cold and flu. Ginger extract blocks the growth of several strains of respiratory tract pathogens whereas curcumin possesses anti-viral and anti-bacterial properties and can help reduce the severity of influenza.
Helps reduce nausea
Studies suggest that ginger can decrease nausea caused by motion sickness, chemotherapy and certain gastrointestinal disorders. Whereas turmeric can protect against digestive issues caused by chemotherapy, which could help reduce symptoms like nausea, vomiting and diarrhea.
Pairing Black Pepper with Turmeric and Ginger
Black pepper is a potent spice too. This pungent ingredient is made of ground (or whole) peppercorns, which are the small, dried, unripe fruits of the black pepper plant. In addition to being a flavouring agent, pepper contains anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, making it potentially helpful for managing inflammatory conditions and reducing free-radical damage.
In fact, research has shown that piperine, the main active ingredient in pepper, may reduce inflammation associated with chronic diseases like asthma, arthritis, chronic gastritis, and Alzheimer's.
Pairing ginger and piperine may potentially enhance and sustain the effect of curcumin. This is because curcumin has low bioavailability. Adding piperine can enhance the absorption of curcumin content in the body.
Use ginger and turmeric wisely don't go overboard
While both of the ingredients are super-healthy and safe to use. Going to the extremes could pose some health hazards too.
For instance just like turmeric, ginger may reduce blood clotting and may interfere with blood thinning medicines when used in high amounts.
High doses of curcumin can pose side effects like headaches, rashes and diarrhoea. It is therefore advised to consume ginger and turmeric naturally in food and take the supplements only if recommended by the doctor.
