From spiced biscuits to warming curries, Ginger makes an appearance in all kinds of tasty winter treats. Ginger is loved worldwide for its fiery taste, and has become a must-have spice for adding a little extra kick to food and drinks.
But did you know that this popular superfood spice can offer more than just extra flavour? Thanks to its impressive nutritional credentials, Ginger can also help prevent and even treat cold and flu. Here’s how:
Cold and flu: the lowdown
Colds are incredibly common, especially during the winter. The average adult will come down with a cold around 2-4 times a year. These viruses might be common, but they can still leave you feeling miserable.
Symptoms like a sore throat, runny nose, painful sinuses and a fever will leave you feeling tired and uncomfortable days at a time. But the good news is that most people recover from the common cold relatively quickly - usually without any need for medicine.
The flu, on the other hand, can be far more dangerous. Influenza is a viral infection that attacks the respiratory system, causing:
- A fever
- Aching muscles
- Headache
- Chills and sweats
- Nasal congestion
- Fatigue
- A dry cough
Most people will make a full recovery, but for the elderly or those with a weakened immune system, the flu can lead to serious complications.
That’s why it’s vital that we boost our immune systems with natural superfoods like Ginger, to ensure our bodies have the best chance of fighting off nasty viruses.
How can Ginger help prevent cold and flu?
Ginger’s unique blend of nutrients, vitamins and phytochemicals make it a potent natural remedy for cold and flu. Just take a look at some of the ways it can help alleviate symptoms, and even prevent the illness in the first place:
Ginger has impressive antiviral properties
Ginger’s antiviral properties make it a natural remedy for cold and flu, as backed up by research. One study conducted by the College of Medicine at Kaohsiung Medical University found that fresh Ginger is an effective treatment against human respiratory syncytial virus. It works by inhibiting the attachment of the virus to the cells, as well as stimulating INF-beta secretions that help counteract viral infections.
Ginger helps stimulate perspiration
When you have the flu, sweating is the body’s natural way of reducing its internal temperature. Interestingly, the shagol and gingerol compound found in Ginger can support this process, helping to bring down a fever.
Ginger stimulates digestion
When you’re suffering from the flu, the last thing you feel like doing is eating. However, nutritious and soothing foods are vital to recovery. Ginger can help you rebuild your strength by easing nausea and stimulating appetite and digestion.
Ginger can help prevent and ease symptoms of cold and flu in so many ways. And luckily, it’s really easy to add this superfood to your diet. With a fiery kick, the spice is a welcome addition to all kinds of dishes and drinks. Or for a soothing drink, why not make your own cinnamon and Ginger tea? Packed with superfoods, it’ll ensure you’re on the road to recovery in no time.
