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10 Extraordinary Health Benefits of Ginger You Need to Know

The AHA! Team — Mon, 11 Aug 2025 05:58:31 +0000

Lori Alton via NaturalHealth365 – Ginger has long been recognized as a flavorful and versatile herb in the kitchen. But you may be surprised to learn that it also has many benefits beyond your favorite culinary creations. If you have ever taken ginger ale to relieve an upset stomach, you probably have some inkling about its effectiveness as a natural remedy. But you would probably be surprised to discover that settling a queasy stomach is only the tip of the iceberg when it comes to the many health benefits associated with this extraordinary herb. Ginger has powerful healing properties It is well-researched, with studies supporting a long list of traditional uses passed down for generations. The use of ginger may support a broad array of antibacterial, antioxidant, and even antiparasitic effects. It has also been credited as an anti-inflammatory agent, opening the door for its potential use in treating many chronic illnesses. Ginger can be consumed fresh, dried, or in extract form. It can also be made with tea or as a supplement. Here are just 10 of the many beneficial uses for this versatile herb: 1. Normalize blood circulation Because it contains the minerals zinc, magnesium, and chromium – which help to improve blood flow – ginger is known for helping to support normal blood circulation. It may also aid in preventing chills, fever, and excessive sweating. In addition, there is evidence from one study that ginger could aid in preventing a heart attack. 2. Prevention of colon cancer According to a University of Minnesota study, the same substance that gives ginger its distinctive flavor appears to play a role in inhibiting the growth of human colorectal cancer cells. The research results strongly suggest ginger compounds may help combat colorectal carcinomas. Other studies have suggested ginger is effective in the battle against several other aggressive cancers, including cancers of the lung, ovaries, breast, pancreatic, prostate, and skin carcinoma. 3. Diabetes prevention There is evidence that ginger may play a role in diabetes prevention. Recent studies have found that ginger is beneficial in preventing and treating the disease, along with its ability to lower blood sugar, fats, and cholesterol. Research also supports the use of ginger for lessening the complications of diabetes and reducing bodily damage caused by the disease. 4. Natural antibiotic There are many reasons to avoid the overuse of antibiotics, from the risk of antibiotic-resistant bacteria to the need to maintain healthy intestinal bacteria. Ginger appears to offer a healthier alternative, exhibiting effective antibiotic action. Again, research also supports using ginger as an antibacterial against respiratory and periodontal infections. 5. Anti-inflammatory Many chronic diseases that are the most prevalent in today’s society can be traced to inflammation. Research has shown that ginger can be very helpful in managing the symptoms of chronic illness. It has also been shown to have the ability to inhibit nitrous oxide production and pro-inflammatory cytokines, which may affect neurodegenerative diseases. Lessening inflammation could make ginger useful in treating arthritis, prostate disease, cancer prevention, and general inflammation. 6. Detoxification The toxins and impurities in today’s environment are at war with our bodies on a daily basis. Pesticides, pharmaceuticals, GMOs, bacteria, pollutants, EMFs, and the effects of processed food all contribute to diminishing health and aging. However, studies suggest ginger has a preventive effect on many toxins, lessening their toll on the human body. 7. Relief from nausea and gastric distress Your grandmother was right when she served you that old fashion ginger ale for an upset stomach. Research supports the idea that you can alleviate nausea and gastric distress. This herb can also promote a healthy intestinal environment and contains an anti-spasmodic agent to relieve the pain of gastric distress. Other benefits include the relief of motion sickness, nausea, morning sickness and the prevention of ulcers. 8. Protection from radiation Research has shown that you can reduce the negative effects of radiation. For example, some studies suggest that the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties can help to protect against radiation-induced damage to various tissues, including the kidneys, by lowering the risk of oxidative stress and inflammation. 9. Menstrual pain relief A double-blind study found ginger to be as effective at relieving menstrual pain as common over-the-counter remedies, such as ibuprofen. 10. Reduced arthritic pain Studies have shown that ginger is just as effective as commonly prescribed pharmaceuticals at relieving pain due to inflammation of gout, rheumatoid arthritis, and osteoarthritis. There is evidence it may be even more effective. How to easily incorporate plant medicine into your diet Adding this herb to your daily routine doesn’t have to be complicated. It’s one of the most versatile herbs for sweet and savory dishes. Whether you prefer fresh, dried, powdered, or extract form, there are plenty of simple ways to enjoy its benefits. Start your day with ginger tea. A warm cup in the morning can help wake up your digestion and support overall wellness. Steep fresh slices of this herb in hot water, or use a tea bag for convenience. Blend it into smoothies: Fresh or powdered form of this herb adds a spicy kick to your favorite smoothie and offers digestive and anti-inflammatory benefits. Try pairing it with citrus fruits, carrots, or turmeric for a powerful nutrient boost. Use it in cooking: Grate fresh ginger into stir-fries, soups, and curries for a burst of flavor and health benefits. It also works well in marinades and salad dressings. Bake with it: This herb can add warmth to baked goods like muffins, cookies, and breads. Combine it with cinnamon and nutmeg for a comforting, aromatic treat. Enjoy ginger shots: For a concentrated dose of ginger’s goodness, try blending this fresh herb with lemon juice and honey for an energizing shot. Make ginger-infused water: Drop a few slices of this herb into your water bottle for a refreshing, subtly spiced drink throughout the day. Sprinkle ginger powder: For an easy way to include this herb in your diet, add a pinch to oatmeal, yogurt, or even your morning coffee. By incorporating ginger into your meals and drinks, you’ll enhance the flavor of your food and reap the many health benefits this powerful herb offers. Enjoy! Sources for this article include: NIH.gov NIH.gov NIH.gov Medicalnewstoday.com To read the original article click here.

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Citronella Oil: Repel Insects, Pain & Stress!

The AHA! Team — Thu, 03 Oct 2024 08:39:38 +0000

Jillian Levy, CHHC via Dr. Axe – What is citronella? The oil itself comes from the Asian grass plant known as Cymbopogon nardus. As a concentrated form of antioxidants and phytochemicals taken from the plant’s stems and leaves, citronella oil has been used for centuries in China, Indonesia and Sri Lanka. Its uses include helping decrease rashes, inflammation, infections, pain and more. What is Citronella? The oil itself comes from the Asian grass plant known as Cymbopogon nardus. It’s most commonly used as a natural fragrant oil, in insect repellents, as well as in beauty, household and perfume products. According to scientific research, pure citronella essential oil is known to have amazing antibacterial and antifungal abilities. With these potent properties, is citronella oil harmful to humans? Not when it’s used properly. In fact, the most popular use for citronella is as an ingredient in homemade or commercially made bug sprays, since it naturally repels various insects — and insect repellent is just one of citronella’s many possible uses. What Is Citronella Oil? According to various studies investigating the effects of these compounds, citronella oil has been shown to have the following health-promoting effects: Naturally repels insects Fights free radical damage Fights bacteria and fungi Reduces inflammation Promotes relaxation Helps control pets’ behavior Today, there are more than 30 species of Cymbopogon (citronella plants) grown wildly throughout parts of the world and used in Southeast Asian cooking and teas. There are two primary types of citronella used to create pure citronella oil: the Java type and the Ceylon type. Both originally came from parts of Asia, especially grassy areas of Sri Lanka. Ceylon citronella is obtained from the Cymbopogon nardus plant and has the following active ingredients: citronellal (27.87 precent) geraniol (22.77 percent) geranial (14.54 percent) citronellol (11.85 percent) neral (11.21 percent) It has a scent similar to citrus fruits, wood and cinnamon. Geraniol is thought to be the major constituent contributing to various activities, including antimicrobial, anthelmintic, antioxidant, anticonvulsant and wound-healing effects. The Java type is similar and derived from a related species called Cymbopogon winterianus. Cymbopogon winterianus’ main active ingredients include: geraniol (40.06 percent) citronellal (27.44 percent) citronellol (10.45 percent) Of the two types, Java is thought to be more powerful, and therefore it’s usually more expensive. It has a darker color and “fresher” scent similar to lemon and lemon essential oil. Of citronella’s active ingredients, the three that are most researched and valued include citronellol, citronellal and geraniol. Both types of citronella oil have widespread uses, including stress reduction, antibacterial or antiseptic action, and skin rejuvenation. Citronella essential oil is one of the most common aromatherapy oils and part of what gives many household sprays and candles their signature scent. Additionally, it can be used as a food additive for flavor and preservation, so you can sometimes find it in foods and beverages. Are lemongrass and citronella the same? Lemongrass essential oil can be confused for citronella essential oil and vice versa. A citronella plant, also called a mosquito plant, does resemble its relative, the lemongrass plant. (The lemongrass genus includes more than 50 species of grasses native to tropical Asia and southern India, including Cymbopogon citratus.) The oils derived from these plants also have similar smells and uses, such as warding off insects, but they are definitely two completely different plants and oils. Benefits What is citronella good for? Here are some of its many benefits and uses: 1. All-natural insect repellent The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency considers citronella to be a biopesticide. That means it’s a natural “nontoxic mode of action” against potentially harmful insects like mosquitoes. What insects does citronella oil repel? Is citronella oil effective against mosquitoes? Citronella has been registered as a gentle, plant-based bug spray ingredient in the U.S. since 1948. It has been shown to repel dangerous Aedes aegypti mosquitoes, which are capable of spreading dengue fever and the Zika virus. Because it can ward off mosquitoes, it may also protect against mosquito-borne diseases, such as malaria, filariasis, chikungunya virus, yellow fever and dengue. A 2015 report published in Rural Remote Health states, “The topical application of citronella oil can be employed as an easily-available, affordable and effective alternative mosquito repellent to prevent mosquito-borne diseases in rural areas such as Tikapur, Nepal.” Research published in the Israel Medical Association Journal also shows that citronella works to help prevent head lice, too. It may also prevent flies and ticks from biting you to some degree. According to some research, you need to reapply citronella oil about every 30–60 minutes for its bug-deterring effects to last. You can combine several drops with coconut oil and spread it on your body like lotion, or add some to a spray bottle with water and cover your skin, hair and clothes. Using concentrated oil seems to be more effective against bug bites compared to burning commercial citronella candles, which tend to only be made with limited amounts of actual essential oils. 2. Can help manage inflammation and pain Like many citrus essential oils, citronella contains compounds that fight free radical damage and help reverse oxidative stress. A 2000 review published in the Journal of Agricultural Food Chemistry studied 34 different citrus essential oils and their components for radical-scavenging activities. Researchers found that many citrus volatile components, including the main type found in citronella called geraniol, had high antioxidant capabilities for fighting free radicals that can cause disease and cellular damage. Due to its antioxidant properties, citronella can be used as a natural pain-relieving treatment. It can help with management of inflammation and painful symptoms like joint aches. Combine several (two to three) drops with a carrier oil like coconut oil, and massage it into swollen joints, tissue and muscles. 3. Uplifting and stress-reducing Citronella has a citrusy scent that can be both uplifting and relaxing. In fact, research has shown that citronella essential oil seems to activate both parasympathetic and sympathetic nervous activity, which is beneficial for management of anxiety. Citronella can contribute to natural stress relief when you diffuse it in your home or office to counteract a rough day. When inhaled, it can encourage relaxation, invigoration and pleasant memories, and it may even reduce trouble sleeping and depression. Some animal studies have even shown that inhalation of citronella can help reduce appetite and potentially body weight, perhaps by reducing stress-related cravings. 4. Can help destroy parasites Citronella oil is used to expel worms and parasites from the intestines. In vitro research shows that geraniol also has strong anthelmintic activity. This means it effectively expels parasitic worms and other internal parasites by either stunning or killing them without causing any damage to the host. This is precisely the reason that citronella is used to prevent both internal and external infections and why it can play a central role in a parasite cleanse. 5. Natural perfume or room spray Because it has a clean, fresh scent similar to lemon or lemongrass, citronella is a common ingredient in soaps, candles, incense, perfumes and cosmetics. You can naturally deodorize your home, dishwasher, refrigerator and laundry machine by diffusing citronella essential oil or running a cycle of your household appliances with a few drops of included. 6. Kitchen cleaner Proven to have strong antifungal and antibacterial properties, citronella oil can be used to help clean your kitchen, bathroom or household surfaces without the need for harsh chemicals. 7. Natural antifungal and antibacterial effects Aside from keeping away bug bites, citronella can work as a natural skin care aid by killing off bacteria and fungus. Being both an antibacterial and antifungal essential oil, citronella can help with many common skin complaints, including athlete’s foot and acne. Citronella essential oil has also specifically been shown to kill off candida fungus. Candida can contribute to many skin concerns, such as nail infections. Additionally, studies have found that it it can be used in mouthwashes to kill harmful bacteria in the mouth, and it has a lower cytotoxic effect and higher action compared to some other commercial solutions. It may also help with wound-healing due to these effects. To use citronella oil topically, always dilute it in a 1:1 ration with a carrier oil, such as coconut oil. As an easy-to-make home remedy for acne, try dabbing one drop of pure citronella essential oil mixed with one drop of coconut oil on blemishes three times a day using a sterile cotton swab. 8. Pet controller Although it might sound strange, rather than using an electric shock, citronella oil can help get dogs to stop barking. This is why there are anti-barking collars that contain citronella. According to the ASPCA, research has shown that a citronella collar can be at least as effective for eliminating barking as an electronic collar, and it’s typically viewed more positively by dog owners. You can also use citronella to keep your dogs off of furniture. As a bonus, when you spray citronella on your furniture or linens, it keeps them free from bacteria, pests and odors. Add several drops to a spray bottle along with water, shake it up, and spray it throughout your home and on household items. Is citronella oil poisonous to cats? Cats are known to be more sensitive to citronella than dogs, so it’s not recommended to use it around cats. 9. Natural shampoo and conditioner One of the most popular uses for citronella oil is cleansing and conditioning the hair and scalp. It can help eliminate excess oil and greasiness of hair while adding shine. Many people find it adds volume to hair and helps detangle knots. To use citronella oil for hair, add several drops to your shampoo or conditioner, or try making your own homemade recipe using a cleansing oil like coconut oil, which also benefits hair. How to Use As explained above, citronella can be used to make a bug spray or room spray. It can also be diffused, burned as a candle or applied topically. Here are several methods for safely using citronella oil at home: Aromatically: You can diffuse the oil in your home or backyard just like a candle using a diffuser. To make a natural room freshener, put a few drops of oil along with water into a spritzer bottle. You can also inhale the oil directly by sniffing it. Topically: Before applying citronella oil to your skin, it should be diluted with a carrier oil, like coconut or jojoba oil, in a 1:1 ratio. Rub the mixture into your skin, or spray some on your clothes and hair. You can also add a few drops of citronella essential oil to your bath, shampoo, soap, lotion or body wash. Combine citronella oil with other uplifting essential oils, including: geranium oil orange oil lemon oil vanilla oil peppermint oil lemongrass oil eucalyptus oil Instead of using conventional recipes and showering your body in harmful chemicals, try this homemade bug spray recipe that includes citronella oil. In addition to keeping away bugs, it also helps kill bacteria and nourish your skin, and unlike conventional brands, it smells amazing! You can also try citronella essential oil in these other DIY recipes: Homemade Hair Conditioner Recipe Homemade Body Wash Recipe Wondering where to buy citronella oil? It’s not hard to find citronella essential oil in health stores or online. Always look for one that is 100 percent pure, organic and therapeutic-grade that was created with chemical-free CO2 extraction methods. Risks and Side Effects Is citronella oil toxic? The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency states that it is generally safe and known to have little or no toxicity when used as a topical product on the skin. In fact, there have been virtually zero reports of adverse effects of concern since 1948. Can citronella oil be applied to skin? Yes, but it should always be mixed with a carrier oil like coconut or jojoba oil for external use. As mentioned above, it is typically not recommended for internal use due to potential side effects and also concerns over quality control. (Poor-quality oil may...

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Ready to Fight Heart Disease? Boost Your Heart Health with These Tiny Seeds

AHA Publisher — Fri, 05 Feb 2021 08:00:16 +0000

Karen Sanders via NaturalHealth365 – In spite of scientific advances, heart disease is still the leading cause of death for Americans. Yet, experts tell us, many cases of cardiovascular disease are preventable, with simple lifestyle changes – such as a clean diet – to help improve our heart health. Do you crave “junky” foods? The seeds of a cheerful, hardy summer flower – scientifically known as Helianthus annuus – offer a tasty alternative to junk foods such as potato chips and cookies, and can help you redirect your cravings towards healthier fare. Sunflower seeds – with their crunchy, pleasing texture and mildly sweet, buttery taste – are virtually perfect snack food. They are not only packed with essential micronutrients and antioxidants but are also rich in natural plant oils that work together to ward off heart disease. Editor’s note: Heart disease now kills 31% of all people worldwide … and the root causes are NOT what you think! Click here to discover the truth inside the Cardiovascular Docu-Class, hosted by Jonathan Landsman, creator of NaturalHealth365. Science-Backed Compounds Provide POWERFUL Heart Health Benefits In addition to polyunsaturated linoleic acid, sunflower seeds contain oleic acid – an extremely beneficial monounsaturated acid that is also found in such heart-healthy treats as olives and avocados. Oleic acid helps to lower harmful LDL cholesterol while raising amounts of desirable HDL cholesterol. In addition, animal studies have shown that a diet high in oleic acid can help reverse the negative effects of inflammatory cytokines. As inflammation triggers many serious health conditions – including heart disease and cancer – this bodes well for sunflower seeds’ ability to promote coronary health. Can oleic acid prevent heart disease? The simple answer is yes. In a study published in 2004 in Nutrition, omega-3 polyunsaturated acids, including oleic acid, decreased the risk of cardiovascular disease. Oleic acid also lowered unhealthy LDL cholesterol and decreased concentrations of vascular cell adhesion molecules, making cells less ‘sticky’ – and reducing the risk of atherosclerosis, strokes, blood clots, and heart disease. But Wait, There Is Even More Good News! Sunflower seeds are rich in amino acids, organic compounds essential to the production of protein. In addition to their role as “building blocks” of protein, amino acids can help to prevent the buildup of body fat and boost the immune system; they can also boost heart health in a variety of ways. A mere quarter of a cup – about 35 grams – of sunflower seeds contains an impressive .70 grams of arginine – which can increase the elasticity of arteries while decreasing vascular resistance. By helping to keep blood vessels dilated, arginine enhances blood flow, helping to prevent the development of coronary artery disease. Sunflower seeds also offer healthy amounts of tryptophan. Many people know that tryptophan can promote restful sleep and reduce anxiety and mood swings; not as well known is the fact that tryptophan is a potent antioxidant that can scavenge harmful free radicals in the body. Glutamic acid, also found in sunflower seeds, benefits the cardiovascular system as well. In a 2009 study published in Circulation: Journal of the American Heart Association, researchers found that this amino acid can significantly lower blood pressure. A Quarter Cup of Sunflower Seeds Improves Your Health in More Ways Than You Can Imagine The same quarter-cup serving of sunflower seeds contains over 80 percent of the adult daily value of antioxidant and anti-inflammatory vitamin E – which helps protect against the oxidation of cholesterol, a major factor in heart disease. Sunflower seeds are also high in selenium, a terrific antioxidant – especially when taken in conjunction with vitamin E. Sunflower seeds also contain healthy levels of magnesium – which helps to regulate blood pressure, and niacin – which boosts levels of desirable high-density lipoproteins. With 204 calories to a quarter-cup, sunflower seeds are not a low-cal food. However, one serving offers the same amount of protein as an 8-oz. container of yogurt; sunflower seeds’ exemplary amounts of vitamins, minerals, micronutrients, and protein make them a very good caloric investment. In addition, they are naturally high in heart-healthy dietary fiber – which leads to a feeling of satiety and can help prevent overeating. Here Are Some of Our Favorite Ways to Enjoy Sunflower Seeds It doesn’t much matter if you buy your sunflower seeds shelled or unshelled; the important thing is that they are organic. Unshelled sunflower seeds should feel crisp and firm; avoid any that appear limp, soggy, or withered. Shelled sunflower seeds should be grayish-white, and have a fresh, clean fragrance; if they are visibly yellowed, this could mean that they are rancid. Unshelled seeds may be stored at room temperature in an airtight container, while shelled seeds should be refrigerated. You can use these versatile seeds to add flavor and texture to rice, pasta, tabouleh, or casserole dishes. Sprinkle them over green salads, stir them into oatmeal, or use them to enliven chicken salad. Highly portable and convenient to eat, sunflower seeds are perfect for quick energy on the hiking trail, or for an afternoon pick-me-up at your desk. With almost every constituent working together to ward off coronary disease, it is almost as if sunflower seeds have been divinely engineered towards the goal of protecting your heart. All you have to do is nibble away and enjoy. Sources for this article include: AHA.Journals.org NIH.gov CDC.gov To read the original article click here. For more articles from NaturalHealth365 click here.

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