Ginger is a popular ingredient that has been used for thousands of years. Consumed in a variety of different ways, it has a few amazing secrets. Here are 6 things you didn’t know about ginger.
An Interesting Background
The use of ginger goes back over 5000 years. Ancient Chinese and Indians often considered it a tonic root for every ailment. It’s uses were strongly medicinal for thousands of years. As it traveled west, it became a rich man’s spice/herb. With it’s slightly biting taste, it was used to flavor bread, sauces, curry, and more. It’s an especially popular ingredient in Asian and Indian cuisine.
Packed with Nutrients
While it’s known to add a unique flavor, it actually is quite beneficial in the health department. In it, you’ll find the following vitamins and minerals:
- Vitamin C
- Vitamin B6
- Magnesium
- Iron
- Potassium
- Phosphorus
- Zinc
- Folate
- Riboflavin
- Niacin
In addition, it contains some fiber and protein, no sugar, and it is very low calorie.
Natural Palate Cleanser
Ever wonder what that piece of pickled ginger is doing there next to your sushi? It’s natural properties allow it to be a great palate cleanser. It’s also thought to enhance certain flavor profiles. It’s traditionally used in Japanese culture between bites of different sushi. Since fish often have subtle difference in their flavors, ginger helps elevate the experience.
Fights Nausea
Several studies have shown that ginger is a healthy choice for fighting against feelings of nausea. It has been shown to relieve the nausea some patients experience after surgery and even in some people undergoing chemotherapy.
Probably it’s most impressive success in this area has been in its treatment of pregnancy-associated nausea.
In 12 randomly controlled trials involving over 1,200 women, ginger significantly improved the symptoms of nausea when compared to placebo. It’s a popular choice of treatment, because it has a low threat of adverse side effects.
Comes in Seven Different Ways
There are seven main culinary forms of ginger:
- Raw: Grated or even juiced, raw ginger can be used to add flavor to any type of dish.
- Oil: Mostly used for medicinal properties, but it can also be used in drinks.
- Dried: Dried in it’s root shape, it can be used in the same ways as raw ginger, though it takes a bit more due to flavor being lost in the drying process.
- Ground: The powdered form of ginger has a long shelf life and can be used to add flavor to any dish.
- Pickled: Pickled in sweet vinegar, it’s used in Indian cuisines or as a palate cleanser while eating sushi.
- Preserved: Often a specialty item found in Asian markets, it can be used for anything from desserts to salads.
- Crystallized: This candied form is excellent for desserts.
Potentially Aids in Digestion
Because it stimulates digestive acids and secretions, it is thought to support the digestion of food. It essentially speeds up the emptying of the stomach. By doing so, ginger can potentially relieve the symptoms of indigestion including bloating and stomach discomfort. It has shown great signs of relieving stomach issues, although it should be noted that more studies need to be done.
So there you have it! 6 awesome secrets about ginger you didn’t know until today. Ginger is the main ingredient highlighted by the newest addition to the Marigold bar lineup, the Ginger Coconut bar! It’s warm, spicy-sweet and delicious. Reminiscent of a “Ginger Chew,” but without all the sugar. So what are you waiting for? Get your ginger fix in!
