When you consider the many health benefits of various herbs, fruits, vegetables, seeds and more, it is easy to overlook something as commonplace as ginger. After all, ginger is used in everything from teas and coffee beverages to cookies, candy, kimchi and more. Many people enjoy the unique flavor of this substance, and this may be one of the primary reasons why its popularity increased substantially when the spice trade from Asia to Europe and beyond thrived. While ginger is native to southern Asia, it is commonly used in dishes and drinks in such distant locations as France, Great Britain, Jamaica, the United States, Canada and others.While many people love the taste of ginger in various dishes, snacks and drinks, it has also been used for its natural health benefits in various cultures for hundreds and even thousands of years. This plant is rich in carbohydrates as well as many vitamins and minerals. Specifically, it is a rich source of vitamin B6, magnesium and manganese, but it also has many other nutrients in lower levels. Keep in mind that some people also use it for aromatherapy.
In the United States, the FDA has stated that this substance is recognized as being safe to consume in reasonable quantities. However, it does have drug interactions with medications such as warfarin and nifedipine. If you intend to consume more than a moderate amount of it and are taking prescription medications, it is wise to consult with your doctor about possible interactions as a first step. These are a few of the many health benefits that may be available to you when you consume minor or moderate amounts of ginger.
