We’re sure you’ve already heard of ginger and you might even already know how delicious it is, but do you know about all its health benefits? Ginger is an incredible addition to any diet. Try adding this powerful root to your recipes and see the change today! Here are just a few of ginger’s surprising health benefits.

  1. It’s highly effective against nausea

    Whether you’re under the weather, dealing with motion sickness, or just deal with an upset stomach on a regular basis, ginger is a powerful and natural way to ease nausea. Ginger has a long tradition of being used to treat sea-sickness in sailors and their ilk. It’s also often suggested for patients undergoing chemotherapy who will feel nauseated regularly.

  2. Ginger has anti-inflammatory properties

    Because it’s an anti-inflammatory, it’s a great healer for sore joints or muscles. A ginger drink or ginger-infused meal after a workout will help your limbs feel better in no time. Ginger can also be great for those of us who deal with regular pain, whether it’s from age, injuries, or an autoimmune issue.

  3. It can help with indigestion

    Chronic indigestion, or dyspepsia, is a problem many people live with but ginger might be able to help you. Because indigestion occurs when emptying of the stomach is delayed, ginger can help speed up the process of digestion. When this process is accelerated, stomach pains caused by dyspepsia are greatly alleviated. If you live with indigestion, consider consuming ginger before your next meal and see if it helps.

  4. Ginger can alleviate menstrual pain

    Because it’s a powerful pain reliever, ginger is often suggested for women who deal with painful periods. In one study, ginger managed to reduce menstrual pain as well as ibuprofen. Taken the first three days of your menstrual cycle, ginger can be an incredible way to handle aches and pains.

  5. It can protect you against diabetes

    Some evidence suggests that ginger can increase insulin sensitivity and therefore protect against diabetes, or ease diabetes symptoms. Studies show that daily ginger intake can help lower blood sugar and improve key-markers for long-term blood sugar levels.