Suffer from headaches? Before you reach for the painkillers, why not try out a natural cure for preventing and treating that pesky pain. Packed with nutrients, Ginger is a natural headache remedy that comes with plenty more amazing health benefits.
Ginger: The lowdown
You probably have some Ginger in your kitchen right now. Not surprising, considering it forms such an integral part of a huge number of cuisines. But Ginger isn’t just delicious; it is also one of the healthiest spices on the planet. Ginger has been shown to help:
- Prevent colds and the flu.
Research has shown that Ginger is effective against viruses responsible for the common cold.
- Soothe the digestive system.
A proven carminative, Ginger is an effective treatment for digestive complaints like colic and dyspepsia.
- Ease arthritis.
Ginger is packed with gingerols; powerful anti-inflammatory compounds that have been proven to reduce the pain caused by osteo and rheumatoid arthritis.
- Ease nausea.
Ginger has been used for centuries to ease nausea, especially morning sickness.
- Help prevent cancer.
According to the British Journal of Nutrition, Ginger is a promising treatment in fighting chronic inflammatory diseases such as cancer.
- Fight infections.
Gingerols have been shown to reduce the risk of infections. Studies have found it to be effective in fighting bacterial and fungal infections.
Ginger: The natural headache remedy
Headaches are an incredibly common medical complaint that can be caused by a whole host of factors, from emotional stress, to more serious underlying medical conditions.
Tensions headaches are the most common type of headache, and often manifest themselves as a dull throbbing sensation. Migraines, on the other hand, often increase the sufferer’s sensitivity to light and sound, and can be quite debilitating. Whatever the type or cause of a headache, they all negatively affect our quality of life.
While there are many over the counter medical options to treat headaches, an effective home treatment might be hiding in your spice rack. A 2011 study found that Ginger is an effective migraine treatment and that when taken at the first signs of a headache, can help reduce the severity of the symptoms. The study also found that the therapeutic use of Ginger resulted in fewer negative side effects than other painkillers.
Ginger isn’t the only natural remedy for headaches. Why not try combining it with some of these other superfoods and supplements that have all been shown to shift these common causes of pain:
- Magnesium.
Magnesium-rich foods have been shown to reduce the frequency of headache attacks. Superfoods like Cacao, leafy greens and almonds are all rich in this mineral.
- Lavender oil.
This soothing essential oil can help combat stress and treat tension headaches.
- B-complex vitamins.
Many B vitamins are involved in the formation of neurotransmitters, such as serotonin, which are important in treating migraines.
There are lots of ways to use Ginger to treat a headache, all of which are easy enough to do at home. Why not try infusing fresh Ginger into water along with mint and cucumber? Not only will it taste delicious, but the extra hydration is vital when you’re trying to shift a stubborn headache.
Alternatively, make a relaxing tea with Ginger powder. Warming and delicious, this simple remedy will help reduce the tension and stress causing your headache. Just remember to combine Ginger with plenty of water and rest - and you’ll be feeling better in no time.
For more ways to make Ginger part of your everyday life, read here.
