The Health Benefits of Ginger and One Healthy Homemade Ginger Beer Recipe
Not many beverages are quite as remarkable as Ginger Beer. Enjoyed by many cultures all over the world for its invigorating taste and numerous health perks, it is arguably one of the best tonics you can choose to keep in your refrigerator.
In the Caribbean Ginger Beer can be found sold religiously at grocers and restaurants, and served chilled for any occasion. In the United States, however, the mere mention of it leaves a lot of people looking bewildered or humored.
Considering all of the benefits of ginger it is no wonder why so many ailments run rampant among its residents.
Benefits of Ginger
Ginger, which is the rhizome of the herbal plant, Zingiber officinale, could very well be used to prevent and cure many health problems. This root is known to combat motion sickness and other forms of nausea.
The tradition of consuming ginger is a few hundred years old, but 20th century studies showed that just two capsules of ginger root powder is much better than a dose of Dramamine.
The herb works by absorbing acids and blocking nausea in the gastrointestinal tract. Daniel Mowrey, a PhD and psychopharmacologist, has been studying herbal medicine since the mid 1970s and he swears by the plant.
According to him when one wants to feel better simply keep the root nearby.
Ginger also aids in indigestion and it enhances assimilation, which is the process of converting nutrients into protoplasm.
Aside from assisting you with heartburn it also helps to calm the nerves. Here is a list of some other things this wonder plant will help you with.
*Lactose Intolerant?
When indulging in meals containing lactose, have it with an ice cold glass of Ginger Beer.
Because of its compounds ginger may often minimize digestive disturbance.
- Relieves fever by promoting perspiration
- Alleviates congestion
- Soothes achy muscles
- Great digestive aid *
- Treats respiratory tract infections
- Rheumatism
- Baldness
- Malaria
- Poisonous snake bites
- Toothaches & headaches
What is Ginger Beer?
Ok, so you want to know exactly what is Ginger Beer. There isn't any alcohol involved here but I hope that doesn't discourage you from introducing it into your diet.
The beverage can best be described as a tea with the main ingredient being, of course, Ginger! This recipe is simple so I encourage you to share, bookmark it, and come back for more.
Did You Know?
Tannins, which are found in Lemons and Ginger, are traditionally known for their astringent, anti-bacterial, and anti-enzymatic agents.
A study from Kanazawa University in Japan revealed that tannic acid may benefit people at risk of Alzheimer's disease.
Per Dr. Linda Niessen of the Baylor College of Dentistry, tannins inhibit the effects of bacteria on teeth, which in turn reduces the risk of developing cavities.
Also, in a Copenhagen University study, patients were given a 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon and 1 tablespoon of honey for a week each morning.
The subjects experienced a significant relief of their arthritis pain after one week.
Cook Time
Ingredients
- 1 pound of Ginger, Fresh
- 2 Lemons
- 2.5 cups of Sugar
- 1 pinch of Cinnamon, (optional)
- 1 tablespoon of Honey, (optional)
- Shave (or peel) the skin off the ginger roots.
- Bring 6 quarts of water to a boil in a pot.
- In a separate bowl, grate the shaven ginger root. (Any type of cheese grater is fine)
- Once the water comes to a boil, remove pot from heat and allow the shredded ginger to seep in pot for a few hours. For best results let it sit overnight at room temperature.
- With the help of a strainer carefully pour the mix into a gallon sized pitcher.
- Carefully cut and squeeze both lemons into pitcher then sweeten to taste.
- Add a pinch of cinnamon (optional), a tablespoon of honey, stir, and serve on ice.
Ginger Beer Tip!
Some of the ingredients in this Ginger Beer recipe will settle to the bottom of your pitcher while in the fridge.
For best results give it a stir prior to serving.
Disclaimer
Unfortunately, many people are allergic to Cinnamon. Be sure to research your own medical history before you decide to consume it.
Sources
Tkac, Debora (1990). The Doctors Book of Home Remedies. Emmaus, PA: Rodale Press
Zand, J, Spreen, A, & LaValle, J (1999). Smart Medicine for Healthier Living. Garden City Park, NY: Avery Publishing Group
Testimonials?
Please share with other readers your experience with using or consuming Ginger. How has it affected your life, your gardens, and most importantly your health? Thanks in advance for your comments. Also, if you like this Ginger Beer recipe please rate it at the top of this article.
