Can ginger help fight infections?
Written by
Robert Kelly
Reviewed by
Prof. Benjamin Murphy, Ph.D.Ginger actively prevents infection through its effective gingerol constituent. This natural anti-inflammatory helps alleviate sore throats and promotes relief from nausea associated with illness. Gingerol inhibits the replication pathways of the viruses and enhances the functionality of the white blood cells. Fresh ginger is the most efficacious form of ginger from a therapeutic standpoint.
Anti-Pathogen Action
- Gingerol disrupts viral attachment to host cells
- Inhibits replication of common cold viruses
- Creates hostile environment for bacterial growth
Inflammation Control
- Reduces inflammatory cytokines like TNF-alpha
- Lowers prostaglandin production causing pain
- Decreases histamine release in allergic responses
Symptom Relief
- Relaxes gastrointestinal muscles reducing nausea
- Increases circulation to sore throat tissues
- Thins mucus secretions for easier clearance
Preparation is crucial if you want to keep the active ingredients in ginger. Grate or slice fresh ginger and add it to hot water for tea, then let it steep for 10 minutes. Add the ginger at the end of the cooking process to preserve the active ingredients from being destroyed by heat. To promote assimilation, mix such substances with vitamin C-containing foods, such as lemon. Don't boil, as it destroys the therapeutic principle.
An effective dose is 1-3 grams of fresh ginger daily. Use a 1-inch piece of grated cheese and put it in hot water 3 times daily for acute symptoms. For maintenance, use thin slices in meals regularly. Higher doses of ginger require medical supervision to avoid problems with blood thinners.
Partner ginger effectively with other immune boosters. Combine with garlic to enhance antimicrobial action. Add chicken soup with turmeric for its anti-inflammatory effects. Mix with honey and lemon in tea for soothing impact on the throat and pathogen-fighting properties. These combinations strengthen natural defenses.
Read the full article: Top 10 Immune Support Foods for Health
