Ginger: digestion and immunity

An ancient medicinal plant, an emblematic spice in world cuisines and a natural ally in the cold seasons , ginger has established itself as an essential ingredient in traditional and modern herbalism.
Warming , digestive , antiviral and anti-inflammatory , this pungent rhizome is also helpful for digestive problems, colds, migraines or even type 2 diabetes.

In this article, discover the history of ginger , its benefits validated by tradition and science , its uses , and our recommendations for easily integrating it into your daily life.

Ginger through history: a root with a thousand journeys

Native to tropical Asia, ginger has been used for over 2,000 years in Chinese, Ayurvedic, and Arabic medicine. Confucius himself already mentioned its virtues 2,500 years ago.

Arab merchants then introduced it to the Mediterranean coast. In ancient Rome, it became one of the most prized spices, second only to pepper. Dioscorides, a Greek physician, recommended it for stomach ailments.

In the Middle Ages, ginger was highly prized in Europe, although it could not be cultivated there.

Even today, ginger crosses cultures and is part of many traditional and contemporary recipes: it perfumes Indian masalas, flavors Asian teas, is an ingredient in European gingerbread and is found in both Jamaican ginger beer and the famous ginger ale (Canada Dry).

Its Latin name Zingiber is thought to come from Zenj , the name given to the populations of the east coast of Africa (Zanzibar), where the Arabs obtained ginger.

The health benefits of ginger

An ideal warming plant for winter

Ginger activates blood circulation, dilates blood vessels and produces a gentle and lasting warmth .
It is particularly indicated in cases of:

• cooling,

• chills,

• body heat deficit

• winter ailments.

It promotes sweating and helps the body eliminate pathogens.

Ginger and digestion: an essential ally

Ginger is:

• digestive and carminative (reduces gas),

• liver protector

• stimulant of digestive juices and intestinal peristalsis .

It is recommended in the following cases:

• slow or difficult digestion

• bloating and flatulence,

• Nausea and vomiting (including during pregnancy and chemotherapy),

• loss of appetite,

• pancreatic insufficiency.

It also stimulates saliva production, which is essential for good digestion.

Powerful support for the immune and respiratory systems

Scientific studies confirm the antiviral potential of ginger , particularly against:

• influenza viruses,

• rhinoviruses (colds),

• RSV (respiratory syncytial virus).

Fresh ginger reduces the adhesion of viruses to the epithelium of the respiratory tract.
It thins thick secretions and soothes upper and lower respiratory tract infections.

In Asia, chicken broth with ginger remains a traditional remedy of reference, just as it is in European cuisines.

Ginger and migraines: promising results

According to a clinical trial, combining a ginger extract with a conventional anti-inflammatory treatment significantly improves the relief of acute migraines.

Patients who received ginger experienced:

• a more rapid decrease

• a greater reduction in pain,
  compared to placebo.

Ginger and type 2 diabetes

A meta-analysis of 10 studies (490 participants) shows that ginger:

• reduces fasting blood glucose

• decreases glycated hemoglobin

• improves insulin resistance,

• supports pancreatic function,

• improves the lipid profile.

Solid results, with no significant effect on weight.

Other recognized properties

Ginger is also:

• anti-inflammatory (osteoarthritis, joint pain),

• antioxidant

• anti-allergy,

• cholesterol-lowering agent,

• general tonic

• mildly aphrodisiac (Indian tradition).

It also provides relief:

• pelvic pain at the end of the menstrual cycle,

• digestive migraines,

• certain pains related to metabolic syndrome.

How to use ginger on a daily basis?

As a decoction (ginger tea)

Recipe

• 1 tsp dried ginger rhizome , cut into small pieces.

• 20 cl of cold water

Bring the water and ginger to a boil, boil for 5 minutes, cover, let it steep for 10 minutes, then strain. Drink 2 to 3 cups per day .

Other forms of use

• Capsules (250 mg) : 2 at midday and 2 in the evening with meals

• Hydro-alcoholic extract : 30 drops morning and evening

• Powder : 1 teaspoon in the morning in juice, applesauce or yogurt

• Fresh ginger : grated into dishes, broths, and infusions.

Recipe ideas & wellness rituals

• Ginger-lemon-honey infusion

• Chicken broth with fresh ginger

• Winter ginger shot

• Gargle with ginger water for the throat

• Ginger candies to protect the oral cavity

👉 Simple uses, perfect for prevention as well as in the acute phase.

Our MerveilleNature recommendations

At MerveilleNature, we select high -quality herbal plants and natural preparations, carefully chosen for their wellness and immunity-boosting properties . Among our flagship ginger-based products, discover:

Our ginger-based syrups and shots

Energy Syrup – The natural booster for vitality and immunity
A powerful blend of turmeric, ginger, and lemon, enriched with cinnamon, cayenne pepper, cardamom, and vitamin C. Inspired by Ayurvedic tradition, this syrup supports immunity, aids digestion, and offers exceptional antioxidant properties. Ideal diluted in water, tea, or smoothies, or as a unique touch in your desserts and savory dishes.

Ginger syrup
Known for its immune-boosting and anti-inflammatory properties, this natural preparation helps fight viral infections, nausea, and pain (muscular, joint, and migraine-related). It stimulates digestion, warms the body, and supports brain function, making it perfect for your winter drinks.

Ginger syrup enriched with vitamin C
The combination of ginger, lemon and vitamin C offers an ideal natural solution to boost your immunity and revitalize your body, while deliciously enhancing your teas or other hot drinks.

Cherry and ginger syrup enriched with vitamin C
The sweetness of cherry and the spiciness of ginger combine to strengthen the body and support the upper respiratory tract. Rich in antioxidants and vitamins, this syrup combines deliciousness with natural effectiveness.

Rosehip and ginger syrup enriched with vitamin C
A true shield against viruses thanks to the synergy of rosehip and ginger, rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties. Ideal in your hot drinks or desserts for natural immune support.

Immunity Shot
A powerful dose of vitamins and natural goodness: ginger and lemon juice, acerola juice, and apple juice. This shot supports your natural defenses, promotes healthy digestion, and helps detoxify the body. Ideal for recovering after a night out or for boosting your daily vitality. Healthy, eco-friendly, and delicious, it provides a convenient and effective daily energy boost.

Our functional herbal teas

HERBAL TEA FOR MY IMMUNE SYSTEM
A potent blend of blackberry, aronia, ginger, rosehip, elderberry, and sea buckthorn, specially formulated to strengthen your natural defenses, protect your cells against free radicals, and support your daily energy. Enjoy it warm or slightly chilled for a moment of complete well-being.

Recipe for a wellness infusion with fresh ginger, lemon and orange

Ingredients (for approximately 4 cups) :

• 40g of fresh ginger (about a 4cm piece), cut into small pieces

• 1 orange, sliced

• 1 lemon, sliced

• 1 L of water

• Additional juice from 1/2 lemon and 1/2 orange (optional)

• Honey or maple syrup, according to your taste

Preparation :

1. Prepare the ingredients : peel and cut the ginger, wash the orange and lemon, then slice them thinly.

2. Decoction : put the ginger and fruit slices in 1 L of water, bring to a boil then simmer for 5 minutes.

3. Infusion : remove from heat and let it steep for an additional 10 minutes to allow the flavors to blend.

4. Strain and serve : add the juice of half a lemon and half an orange (optional). Sweeten with honey or maple syrup once the infusion has cooled slightly to preserve the honey's properties.

Tip : This infusion is delicious hot to warm you up in winter or slightly chilled for a refreshing and invigorating effect. You can add a cinnamon stick for an extra spicy note.

Precautions for using ginger

Ginger is a powerful and stimulating spice.

Avoid or use with caution:

• heartburn,

• confirmed high blood pressure

• high fever

• gallstones,

• taking anticoagulants (aspirin, warfarin).

Pregnancy

• Avoid high doses of dried ginger

• Fresh ginger is a possible remedy for nausea.
  👉 Maximum 10 g/day , for a short period

Children

• Not recommended for children under 12 years old

If in doubt, seek advice from a healthcare professional.

Ginger, a natural ally for digestion, immunity, and winter comfort

An ancient medicinal plant and an essential spice, ginger is a true pillar of winter herbalism.
Digestive, antiviral, anti-inflammatory and warming, it naturally supports the body in the face of the challenges of the cold period .

Sources:

1. Ginger relieves migraines – Herbs and Health
   Link to the article
2. Ginger and Diabetes – Plants and Health
   Link to the article
3. The power of plants against viruses. Preventing and treating infections, strengthening the immune system – Claudia Ritter, Ulmer
4. Encyclopedia of Life and Health, Guide to Medicinal Plants – Dr. G. Pamplona-Roger
5. The Ultimate Guide to Herbalism – Loïc Ternisien, Albin Michel
6. My Herbalism Bible – Michel Pierre, Caroline Gayet, Leduc
7. I make my own healing herbal teas – Caroline Gayet, Dr. Patrick Aubé, Leduc

Under no circumstances should the information and advice offered on the MerveilleNature website be considered a substitute for a consultation or diagnosis made by a doctor or healthcare professional, who are the only ones able to properly assess your state of health.