What is ginger extract?
Ginger (Zingiber officinale) originally comes from Southeast Asia and is considered a perennial plant. It is characterized by its aromatic smell and its sharp and burning taste. In addition to its use in the kitchen, Ginger or ginger extract offers a wide range of health benefits, especially in medicine and fitness.
The ginger rhizome (Zingiberis rhizoma) is used as a medicinal herb and dietary supplement. Ginger extracts are based on a physical separation process in which components are extracted using a solvent. The ingredients of ginger include pungent substances such as gingerols and shogaols, organic fats and acids, resins and the essential ginger oilClinical studies confirm that gingerols have a positive effect on inflammation. 6-gingerol, for example, is one of the most effective antioxidants. Shogaols are the dehydrated form of gingerols and are found primarily in dried ginger. Ginger extract is particularly popular in sports and strength training.
Where does ginger extract come from?
Ginger has been used for many centuries, mainly in Asian and Indian medicine. However, its various advantages are also exploited in our latitudes - in the fitness and sports industry or for inflammation, the vital substance is often used as a supplement. Ginger extracts are available in liquid form, dried as powder or already dosed in capsule form. They are often found in pre-workout supplements, as this application promises, among other things, an increase in testosterone levels and thus more strengthBut studies have also shown that the extracts can promote muscle regeneration after training.
What functions does ginger have in the human body?
Ginger contains over 300 secondary plant substances that have a special, health-promoting effect on a variety of metabolic processes for us humans. Secondary plant substances in general have antibacterial, anti-inflammatory and neurological effects. The most important phenols of the ginger root are Gingerols, shogaols and Quercetin, all of which have anti-inflammatory effects. Terpenes, which are fat-soluble and found in ginger, also have antimicrobial properties. Another small group are the diarylheptanoids, which are among the powerful antioxidants.
Ginger extracts have significantly more 6-Gingerol as teas and are extremely effective in their functions. The molecule is quickly absorbed in the intestines and passes directly into the blood. The 10-gingerol level rises just 6 minutes after ingestion. Ginger extracts can have positive properties for stomach and digestive problems, sugar and fat metabolism, cardiovascular diseases, as nerve protection, as cell protection, for joint inflammation (arthritis), for pathogenic microorganisms (such as bacteria, fungi and viruses), for respiratory diseases or for weight control.
Benefits of supplementing with ginger extract
The extracts obtained from the ginger root vary in their quality and concentration. In general, they are well tolerated, but use is not recommended for people with gallstones, as they stimulate bile production. Supplementation with ginger extract can offer the following benefits:
- Natural testosterone booster for training
- Increase in body temperature
- Improvement of blood flow
- Increasing the contractile force of the heart
- Reduction of muscle and joint pain
- Reduction of stomach and intestinal complaints (especially recommended before training!)
- Increase insulin sensitivity and thereby lower blood sugar levels
- Stimulation of fat burning
- Strengthen the immune system
Ginger Extract & Longevity
Ginger extract may potentially have a positive impact on longevity, although direct research on this specific topic is not yet sufficient. Nevertheless, there are some health benefits of ginger that could indirectly contribute to longevity.
First, ginger has proven effects against cardiovascular disease. Cardiovascular disease is a leading cause of premature death worldwide, so any protection against these diseases could potentially contribute to longevity.
Secondly, it is believed that ginger stimulates the production of leptin, a hormone that promotes satiety and curbs appetite. This may help maintain a healthy body weight, which in turn has been linked to a longer lifespan.
In addition, ginger is known to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant has properties that can help ward off chronic diseases and promote overall health.
However, it is important to note that although ginger has many health benefits, it should not be considered a replacement for a balanced diet and regular exercise, both of which are crucial factors in longevity. Additionally, individuals who take blood-thinning medications or have certain health concerns should consult their doctor before adding ginger to their diet.
Sources
Books
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36945254/
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25230520/
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36613394/
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4042570/
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6316093/
- https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT03089593?term=gingerols&draw=2&rank=6
- https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT03028454?term=gingerols&draw=2&rank=10
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