These two rhizomes are healthy food rock stars on their own, and together they top the charts.
Here are the benefits of turmeric and gingerand several mouthwatering recipes to help you enjoy them.
What Are Turmeric and Ginger?
Turmeric and ginger are rhizomes that have been consumed for thousands of years.
From there, it spread throughout Asia and Europe and is now a household staple for many.
Turmeric has also been historically grown in southeast Asia, with India still being the primary producer.
Both plants grow beautiful flowers above the ground when ready to be harvested.
Ginger is more beige-colored, similar to a potato.
Antioxidant-Rich
Ginger and turmeric are both excellent sources of protective compounds.
The antioxidants found in ginger may help prevent heart disease and cancer, especially when paired with garlic.
Turmeric packs even more of an antioxidant punch.
There are several ways to assess antioxidant capacity, and each yields slightly different results.
However, both turmeric and ginger are regarded as some of the mostantioxidant-rich foodsout there.
Anti-Inflammatory
Individually, ginger and turmeric both have impressive anti-inflammatory benefits.
Being from the same family of plants, turmeric is no exception.
Curcumin is, again, center stage when it comes to anti-inflammation.
High blood pressure can occur when plaque and platelets get stuck in your blood vessels.
This increases the stress on your heart when it pumps blood, which increases your blood pressure.
Cancer-Blocking
The anti-inflammatory properties of turmeric are what make it a studied herb for cancer protection.
Stomach-Soothing
Ginger is a well-known home remedy for nausea, but how does the science stack up?
This can have therapeutic implications for pregnant women and people on chemotherapy.
The powder has a longer shelf life than the whole roots.
In fact, turmeric and ginger are both main ingredients in several kinds of curry powder.
Turmeric and ginger are staple flavors for stir-fries, curries, stews, teas and much more.
Both also make flavorful, tangy additions tosmoothies and juices.
Just ensure to peel them both before using.
Turmeric is more brightly colored but milder in flavor than ginger.
Of note, curcumin is difficult for our bodies to absorb on its own.
The Bottom Line
Turmeric and ginger offer numerous benefits.
From supporting immunity to relieving pain, there are several reasons to mix turmeric and ginger into your foods.
Just remember to add black pepper to your turmeric-containing dishes to dramatically boost your body’s curcumin-absorbing abilities.
National Institutes of Health.
National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health.Ginger.
2020;14(6):1-3.
2023;11(12):7732-7741. doi:10.1002/fsn3.3691
