How Ginger Can Work to Fight Pain

Medicine works hand-in-hand with Mother Nature to derive the modern-day treatments that we rely on for a good quality of life. There are foods and plants out there that are actually still relied on for their therapeutic benefits. For example, salmon, olive oil, leafy greens, and ginger all have both nutritional and anti-inflammatory qualities that can boost your pain relief efforts. Ginger is particularly beneficial, as it relieves many different types of pain when consumed.

What Makes Ginger Effective?

Ginger is a real “superfood,” as it contains two active compounds that work together to fight inflammation. These two compounds, known as gingerols and shogaols, are typically found in dried ginger. Ginger root, although extremely popular in Asian cuisines, is found to be effective in fighting inflammation, osteoarthritis, and rheumatism.

How Ginger Works to Reduce Muscle Pain

Studies show that ginger was found to reduce intense muscle pain and soreness that come after a good workout. But, it’s important to remember that the effects of ginger won’t be immediate; it takes about 2 grams of ginger each day for a minimum of 11 days before effects are felt. If you don’t like the taste of straight ginger, adding some to your tea as well as soups, coffee, and even hot chocolate, can mask its strong flavor. Ginger also works as an excellent spice for beef, poultry, and salmon.

Anti-inflammatory Properties Ease Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis, also known as degenerative joint disease, is a degenerative type of arthritis. Arthritis is a general term for the inflammation of joints, and osteoarthritis develops when cartilage of the joints erode due to aging. Since ginger reduces inflammation, consuming ginger may give you temporary relief. Researchers believe ginger’s anti-inflammatory properties are due to the inhibition of leukotrienes, or inflammatory mediators, that are present in ginger.

Ginger can Relieve Menstrual Cramps

In 2009, it was discovered that ginger has also been known to work just as effectively as over-the-counter pain relievers containing mefenamic acid and ibuprofen for menstrual cramps. The study compared the effects of ginger, mefenamic acid, and ibuprofen on women who experienced primary dysmenorrhea. If you experience intense menstrual pains, including ginger in your diet days leading up to your menstrual cycle and at the onset of your period may give you some relief.

At Pain Specialty Group, our expert providers are experienced with dealing with the complex nature of chronic pain. Our team utilizes a variety of tests to determine the root cause of your pain, as well as solutions to help reduce your pain. Contact our New Hampshire office today and see how we can help.

Author

Aidan Fisher, Maureen Cassidy Pain Specialty Group