Be it early morning in winter or tiredness in the evening, ginger tea provides relief in every season. On one hand it is considered a treasure of health, on the other hand its excessive consumption can also become the cause of many problems.
Ginger has got the status of a medicine in Ayurveda, but there too it is clearly said that every medicine gives benefits only in the right quantity. On top of this, nowadays questions are being raised regarding the purity and cleanliness of ginger available in the market. In such a situation, it is important to understand the benefits, disadvantages and safe use of ginger properly.
Place of ginger in Ayurveda
In Ayurveda, ginger has been called a universal medicine, that is, a herb which is useful in many diseases. According to Charak Samhita, ginger strengthens the digestive fire and helps in flushing out the toxic elements accumulated in the body. Ginger is hot in nature, hence it is considered helpful in keeping the body warm from inside during cold weather. This is the reason why it is consumed more in winter, but due to its hot nature, it is not suitable for everyone and in every quantity.
Benefits of ginger in cold and cough
Ginger helps in balancing kapha. According to Ayurveda, it reduces swelling of the throat and helps in opening blocked nose. Taking ginger juice with ginger tea or honey provides relief from cold symptoms. This is the reason why both doctors and Ayurvedacharyas recommend limited consumption of ginger in the changing seasons.
Why is ginger beneficial for the digestive system?
Ginger is considered to enhance digestion power. It provides relief from problems like gas, indigestion, heavy stomach and loss of appetite. According to Ayurveda, taking a little ginger with salt before meals improves digestion. However, if the quantity is increased, this ginger can cause stomach irritation and acidity.
When does ginger become harmful?
Health experts believe that excessive consumption of ginger can increase Pitta Dosha. This may cause complaints of heartburn, acidity and heartburn. In some people, problems like diarrhea, stomach ache and burning sensation in the mouth are also seen due to taking too much ginger. Since ginger acts as a blood thinner, people with heart disease, blood pressure, or taking blood thinner medications should take extra caution.
Ayurveda’s warning regarding ginger during pregnancy
Both Ayurveda and modern medicine recommend limited consumption of ginger during pregnancy. Consuming excessive amounts of ginger in the initial months can have negative effects on pregnancy. Therefore, pregnant women should not consume excess ginger without doctor’s advice.
How safe is market ginger?
Nowadays, vegetables and roots available in the market often look shiny and uniform. Health experts say that sometimes ginger is chemically washed to make it look clean and attractive. Due to this, ginger looks clean on the surface, but harmful chemicals may remain on it, which can harm health.
Why is it important to clean ginger properly at home?
Experts advise that simply washing ginger with water is not enough. It should be cleaned by soaking it in water for some time and then rubbing it thoroughly with a brush or rough cloth. If you want, you can wash it after keeping it in light salt or vinegar water for a few minutes. This removes soil, bacteria and possible chemical residues to a great extent.
How much ginger is safe?
According to Ayurveda and nutrition experts, 1 to 2 grams of fresh ginger daily or one cup of ginger tea a day is considered sufficient for a normal person. Taking more than this amount can cause harm instead of benefit.
Ginger is definitely a powerful medicinal herb, but its effect is positive only when it is taken in balanced quantity. In today’s times, it is very important to clean ginger brought from the market thoroughly and consume it keeping your health condition in mind. If you already have any disease or are on regular medications, then the safest option is to consult a doctor or Ayurvedacharya before including ginger in your diet.
Disclaimer
This article is only for general information and health awareness. Take personal advice from your doctor or Ayurveda expert before consuming ginger in case of any health problem or special condition.