The healing powers of ginger have been well documented for hundreds of years in eastern Ayurvedic medicine, ancient Chinese medicine and western folklore. Traditional medicine has investigated the potential healing qualities of ginger through scientific methods and found it contains zingibain, a special proteolytic* enzyme. Research shows that proteolytic enzymes have anti-inflammatory properties. These enzymes work by inhibiting the production of prostaglandins and leukotrienes which are involved in the pain and inflammation process. For arthritis sufferers this is very important. Ginger will help reduce the inflammation and so reduce the pain that occurs as a direct result of the inflammation. With lesser pain and inflammation arthritis sufferers can enjoy better mobility, but more importantly a better quality of life.
In a study reported in the Osteoarthritis and Cartilage Journal, 29 arthritis sufferers were followed over a period of 12 months. Some of the participants were being treated with a ginger compound. The others were given a placebo. Participants who took the ginger compound reported significantly less pain during movement than those who took a placebo and also found that swelling in the knees was also reduced. The great thing about ginger is that it is completely natural and can be taken freshly sliced, tincture, capsule or even as a tea with no reported side effects.
Exactly how much ginger a person should consume to treat arthritis will be subjective. We are all unique; we all react differently to differently things. Since ginger has no reported harmful side effects try to incorporate ginger into your everyday diet.
However before you decide to make any changes to your diet or take any additional supplements. It would be best to speak to a doctor first. They will be able to monitor your progress and recommend any necessary change in dosage.
| By Michelle Armstrong
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