Ginger benefits: the properties of the famous root from the East.

Ginger benefits: yes, it is an important topic to address because this Asian-origin root has long made its way into Western cuisine and is proving to be a real boon for our diet and health. Ginger is a stimulating spice with a slightly spicy flavor, rich in properties and benefits such as its antioxidant and antibiotic power. But stay with us and discover with us at Spaghetti e Mandolino the origins of ginger, its benefits, properties, and uses you can make in the kitchen.

Ginger: origins and history of the plant with sensational benefits

First and foremost, ginger is a plant, but the part that interests us, namely the edible one, is its root. The ginger plant, scientifically named Zingiber officinale (for this reason, it is also called by the name Ginger), is an herbaceous species native to South Asia, but it is now cultivated in numerous tropical and subtropical regions of the world where it has found the ideal hot and humid climate to grow.
As we mentioned, ginger is obtained from the fleshy root of this plant, a fragrant spice with a pungent and slightly spicy flavor: fresh root contains about 3 percent of essential oils responsible for its unmistakable organoleptic properties.

But let's talk a bit of history: the history of ginger indeed has ancient origins. The root was one of the first spices exported from Asia. It is believed that it was brought to Europe by Alexander III of Macedon, better known as the great Alexander the Great.
Ginger, thanks to its properties, was widely used by the ancient Greeks and Romans. The famous inventor Pythagoras even believed it could cure snake bites. Due to its spicy flavor, it was also associated with sexual vigor and considered a powerful aphrodisiac.
In the Middle Ages, in Europe, it became a highly sought-after spice, among the most appreciated in cooking and extremely expensive, second in fame only to pepper. There were even those who believed that ginger could have magical powers. In ancient times, priests used it to summon the power of fire, while the smoke from the burned root was used to consecrate ritual tools, charge amulets, or break evil spells.

Ginger benefits: the properties of a magical spice

Ginger, for its properties, is considered an excellent natural anti-inflammatory and digestive, highly recommended to combat nausea and dizziness. Ginger can be used to address issues like motion sickness, seasickness, and nausea. The active principles of the plant, as mentioned, are concentrated in its root.

In traditional medicine in the Far East, ginger is used to treat osteoarthritis, influenza, as a heart stimulant, and as a protector of the gastric mucosa. Thanks to its antibiotic properties, ginger is a valid ally for the stomach, intestine, heart, and circulatory system.
The ginger and lemon herbal tea has benefits for combating colds and is perfect for those seeking detoxifying beverages.

Ginger benefits: let’s bring them into the kitchen with some recipes

Candied ginger, ginger and chocolate, fresh ginger, ginger fruit juice, ginger powder, fig and ginger jam, ginger sauce, yogurt and desserts: with this root, it is truly possible to create just about anything. The unmistakable flavor of ginger pairs well with numerous types of dishes, making it easy to bring the benefits of ginger into our kitchens and onto our tables.

Appetizers, first courses, second courses, or desserts: ginger with its benefits can find a place in every preparation. From salmon rolls with zucchini and ginger to veal scaloppine with ginger and lemon, to spaghetti with turmeric and ginger or fusilli with red onion, lemon and ginger, these are just a few ideas where this root will delight you with its intense and mildly spicy flavor.

It is also renowned in the realm of desserts. Ginger cookies are well-known, as is ginger chocolate, and some even use it to make delicious cakes. One example is lemon and ginger muffins!
How to make them? We’ll tell you right away!
Blend 200 g of brown sugar with the zest of one organic lemon for one minute. Add 3 eggs, 80 g of warm melted butter, one natural yogurt, the juice of one lemon, and ginger powder. Blend until all ingredients are combined and add 350 g of flour and a packet of baking powder. Blend again until smooth. Fill muffin cups 3/4 full and bake for about 20 minutes at 180 degrees. You’ll impress everyone!
Ginger benefits: let’s enjoy them with taste!

Francesco Scuderi