Ginger is a spice that is commonly used in culinary dishes and has been known for its health properties for centuries. It is a member of the Zingiberaceae family and it is native to Southeast Asia. Ginger has been used in traditional medicine to treat digestive issues, inflammation, and respiratory problems, among other health problems.
While most people are familiar with the consumption of ginger root, many may not be aware that ginger peel is also edible and has a host of health benefits. In fact, ginger peel has been found to contain more beneficial polyphenols than the flesh and unique and distinct compounds that have various health properties.
In this blog post, we will discuss the health benefits of ginger peel and why you should consider consuming it.
Health Benefits of Ginger Peel
1. Anti-Inflammatory Properties
Ginger has been known for its anti-inflammatory properties and ginger peel is no exception. Ginger peel contains compounds such as zingerone and shogaols that have anti-inflammatory properties. Consuming ginger peel can help reduce inflammation and associated pain.
2. Rich in Antioxidants
Antioxidants are compounds that help protect the body against oxidative damage caused by free radicals. Ginger peel is a rich source of antioxidants such as polyphenols, flavonoids, and carotenoids. These antioxidants can help protect the body against chronic diseases such as cancer, heart disease, and diabetes.
3. Promotes Digestive Health
Digestive issues such as bloating, constipation, and nausea can be effectively treated with ginger. Ginger peel contains compounds such as gingerols and shgaols that have been found to help relieve digestive issues. Consuming ginger peel can help alleviate digestive symptoms and promote gut health.
4. Boosts Immune System
Ginger peel is loaded with immune-boosting compounds such as gingerols, shgaols, and flavonoids. These compounds have been found to increase the production of white blood cells and enhance the immune system. Consuming ginger peel can help boost the body’s natural defense system and protect against infections.
5. Lowers Cholesterol Levels
High cholesterol levels are a risk factor for heart disease. The good news is that ginger peel has been found to help lower cholesterol levels. Ginger peel contains compounds such as gingerols and shgaols that have been found to lower LDL (bad) cholesterol levels.
How to Consume Ginger Peel
While ginger root is commonly used in culinary dishes and for medicinal purposes, ginger peel is often discarded. However, there are various ways to consume ginger peel and reap its health benefits.
One way to consume ginger peel is by grating the peel or slicing it thinly and adding it to dishes such as stir-fries, sauces, and marinades. Ginger peel can also be used to make tea by boiling sliced ginger and peel in water. Candied ginger peel is another popular way to consume ginger peel.
Conclusion
Ginger peel is an often overlooked part of the ginger plant that has a host of health benefits. Consuming ginger peel can help reduce inflammation, boost the immune system, promote digestive health, and lower cholesterol levels. There are various ways to consume ginger peel and it can be easily incorporated into your diet. So next time you are using ginger in your recipes, don’t discard the peel, use it to reap its health benefits.
If you want to learn more about the health benefits of spices and herbs, you can check out this website: https://www.spicesandtease.com/.
FAQ
Is it safe to eat the peel of ginger?
Ginger is a versatile and delicious spice used in a variety of culinary dishes and beverages around the world. The root of the ginger plant is known for its pungent and spicy flavor, and is commonly used in teas, soups, curries, stir-fries, and more. Many people often wonder if it is safe to eat the peel of ginger, or if it should be removed before consuming the root.
The good news is that ginger peel is completely safe to consume. In fact, leaving the peel on can actually enhance the flavor of certain dishes and add some additional health benefits as well. Ginger peel contains a high concentration of phytochemicals, which are compounds produced naturally by plants that have been linked to a variety of health benefits like improved digestion, reduced inflammation, and cancer prevention.
According to Dana Angelo White, a registered dietician and author of “Healthy One-Pan Dinners,” it is perfectly fine to eat the peel of a ginger root. She even recommends leaving the peel on when making ginger tea, as the peel contains more fiber than the rest of the ginger root.
There are also some potential downsides to consuming ginger peel, however. Some people may experience digestive discomfort or mild irritation after consuming large amounts of ginger, which could potentially be exacerbated by eating the peel. Additionally, some pesticides or other chemicals used in the farming and processing of ginger may be present on the peel, so it is important to buy organic ginger or wash the peel thoroughly before consuming it.
Eating ginger peel is generally considered safe and can even provide some added health benefits. However, it is important to listen to your body and consult a healthcare professional if you experience any adverse effects after consuming ginger or ginger peel.
What are the health benefits of ginger peels?
Ginger is a popular spice that has been used for medicinal and culinary purposes for centuries. In addition to its distinctive flavor, ginger has a long list of claimed health benefits. And while most people are familiar with the health benefits of ginger root, the peel of the ginger plant is often overlooked. Ginger peel contains twice the amount of beneficial polyphenols as the flesh of the ginger, which are known to help reduce inflammation and lower the risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease and cancer.
One of the most remarkable health benefits of ginger peel is its potential to protect against colon cancer. Several studies have shown that gingerols, the active compounds in ginger, have anti-inflammatory effects that may help reduce the risk of colon cancer. A study in the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry found that ginger peel extract was able to kill colon cancer cells more effectively than ginger root extract alone.
There are other health benefits associated with consuming ginger peels as well. Ginger peel has potent antioxidant properties that help protect the body against oxidative damage caused by free radicals. Free radicals are unstable molecules that can damage cells and contribute to the development of several chronic diseases. By neutralizing free radicals, ginger peel can help reduce the risk of heart disease, Alzheimer’s disease, and other chronic conditions.
Ginger peel is also rich in fiber, which is essential for maintaining a healthy digestive system. Fiber helps to promote regular bowel movements, prevent constipation, and lower the risk of developing digestive disorders such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and diverticulitis.
Lastly, ginger peel has anti-inflammatory properties that may help reduce inflammation in the body. Inflammation is a natural response to injury or infection, but chronic inflammation can lead to several health problems, including arthritis, heart disease, and cancer. Ginger peel contains compounds that help inhibit the production of pro-inflammatory molecules in the body, which can help reduce chronic inflammation and related health problems.
Ginger peel is a highly nutritious food that is packed with health-promoting compounds. Its high polyphenol and fiber content, along with its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, make ginger peel a valuable addition to a healthy diet. So, next time you use ginger in your cooking or make a cup of ginger tea, consider leaving the peel on for added health benefits.
Is ginger better with the skin on or off?
Ginger is a common ingredient used in cooking for its distinctive flavor and potential health benefits. When it comes to preparing ginger, there is a common debate about whether it is better to keep the skin on or remove it before using it. While some people claim that removing the skin enhances its flavor and texture, others argue that it is unnecessary and wasteful.
One argument for keeping the skin on ginger is that it contains many of the root’s beneficial compounds, including antioxidants and anti-inflammatory agents. These compounds are concentrated in the skin, and by removing it, you may be losing some of the potential health benefits of ginger. Additionally, keeping the skin on adds a slightly chewy texture to dishes that some people find appealing.
On the other hand, peeling ginger is a common practice that has been done for centuries. Some people prefer peeled ginger because they find that the skin can be tough and fibrous, making it unpleasant to eat. Peeling ginger can also remove any dirt or debris that may be present on the surface of the root.
However, one important thing to consider is that there is virtually no perceptible flavor difference between peeled and unpeeled ginger. This means that whether you keep the skin on or remove it, the overall taste of your dish will not be noticeably affected.
Another point to consider is that peeling ginger can be a time-consuming and wasteful process. Due to the root’s irregular shape, it can be difficult to peel without also removing some of the flesh, leading to unnecessary waste. It is also worth noting that many recipes call for grated or minced ginger, in which case the skin would be removed anyway.
The decision to keep ginger skin on or off is a matter of personal preference and depends on the intended use of the ginger. If you want to maximize the potential health benefits of ginger, it may be beneficial to keep the skin on. However, if you prefer a smoother texture or are using ginger in a recipe that calls for grated or minced ginger, peeling the skin might be a better option. there is no right or wrong answer, and it is up to each individual to decide what works best for them.
