05/26/2023 / By Olivia Cook
Ginger (Zingiber officinale) is often added to savory dishes for its sharp taste. It is also brewed into a tea and imbibed for its digestive benefits. However, this rhizome has been proven to help relieve the symptoms of anxiety.
A study published July 2017 in the Indian Journal of Pharmaceutical Education and Research outlined the anxiety-reducing effects of ginger in animal studies. The study authors compared ginger extract with the anti-anxiety drug diazepam by administering both in laboratory mice. They also administered ginger extract to the mice in varying doses.
The researchers from Iran found that the mice groups given ginger extract had lower levels of anxiety based on tests, compared to the group given diazepam and the control group given none at all. They also noted that mice given high doses of ginger extract had increased movement activity. The study authors thus concluded that ginger extract “can be an appropriate replacement for diazepam to reduce anxiety symptoms.” (Related: Boost your immune system and overall health naturally with ginger.)
Another study published May 2010 in Bioorganic & Medicinal Chemistry found that several compounds in ginger bind to the neurotransmitter serotonin. In particular, nine compounds in the rhizome interact with the mood-regulating chemical. The study authors wrote: “Ginger preparations are traditionally used to improve well-being and to treat mild forms of mental disharmony or migraine,” attesting to the positive effects of the rhizome on anxiety.
Ginger is versatile, and can be consumed in more ways than one. Unlike conventional medications for depression and anxiety, ginger does not pose the risks of addiction and side effects. One can prepare and enjoy ginger with the recipes below.
Here’s an easy recipe for brewing ginger tea.
Ingredients for one serving:
Preparation:
Ginger root makes a wonderful syrup, with a punchy flavor that works really well in cocktails, smoothies and even soft drinks to enhance their flavor.
Ingredients:
Preparation:
Making homemade all-natural ginger-lemon lozenges is just like making candy, but you have to be careful not to burn the mixture.
Ingredients:
Kitchen tools needed:
Preparation:
Visit Herbs.news for more stories on ginger and its medicinal benefits.
Watch this video to learn more about the benefits of ginger.
This video is from the Holistic Herbalist channel on Brighteon.com.
Ginger is an amazing wide-spectrum tonic and remedy.
The science behind the healing effects of ginger.
Maintain your health with ginger.
Sources include:
IJPER.org [PDF]
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