Ginger essential oil or Ginger Root Oil comes from the root of the Zingiber officinale herb which is known as ginger. The name comes from the Greek word “zinigiberis” which means “horn-shaped”. Ginger essential oil benefits are many and we will discuss them in this article!
This essential oil has earned the nickname ”The Oil of Empowerment”, as it stimulates the feeling of confidence and courage. Ginger belongs to the plant family that involves turmeric and cardamom and it is native to the south of China.
The Chinese and Indians were using ginger tonics to cure illnesses for over 4,700 years. Also, it was considered a priceless possession during the Roman Empire trade due to its valuable benefits.
Ginger essential oil was used in traditional medicine as it helps alleviate inflammation, fever, cold, upset stomach and nausea. Additionally, people used it for its anti-microbial food preservative properties. People were also using ginger oil as a spice due to its flavouring and digestive properties.
Ginger Essential Oil Benefits
Ginger essential oil is a warming oil that has antiseptic, laxative, tonic and stimulant properties. The most powerful form of ginger is the essential oil due to the high levels of gingerol.
1. Relieves Upset Stomach & Nausea
Ginger essential oil can relieve upset stomach. As we discussed earlier, ginger was used as a natural remedy for nausea and digestion.
A scientific study discussed the benefits of essential oils that can be helpful in reducing nausea after surgical procedures. When people inhaled a blend of essential oils including ginger, spearmint, peppermint, and cardamom their nausea decreased after surgery.
2. Fights Infections
Ginger essential oil has antiseptic activity as it can alleviate infections caused by certain microorganisms and bacteria. According to a study, ginger oil extracts were effective against Escherichia coli, Bacillus subtilis and Staphylococcus aureus. Moreover, ginger oil has antifungal activity and inhibited the growth of Candida albicans.
In addition, it is popular as a natural antidote for cold, flu, cough and breathing difficulties. A research study showed that ginger can function as a natural remedy for asthma. It caused bronchodilation by relaxing the airway’s smooth muscles.
3. Relieves Migraine
A research study showed that ginger oil has anti-inflammatory benefits. It contributes to pain relief in migraines and headaches as recent studies showed that inflammation plays part in migraine development. You can also use ginger as a protective approach against migraines without any side effects.
4. Enhances Heart Health
Ginger essential oil enhances lipid metabolism which reduces the risk of cardiovascular disease. In a 2016 study, dialysis patients consumed 1000 milligrams of ginger daily for a 10-week period, their serum triglyceride levels decreased significantly by up to 15 % when compared to the placebo group.
5. Potent Antioxidant and Anticancer Activity
The roots of ginger appear to have high levels of antioxidants which are elements that counteract specific types of cell damage due to free radicals. Researchers focused on the anticancer properties of ginger oil due to the antioxidant activities of the ginger extract components, especially [6]-gingerol and zerumbone. These components can inhibit the growth of cancer cells and induce cell-cycle arrest and cell death which have been tested in different cancer types including pancreas, lung, kidney and skin cancers.
6. Natural Aphrodisiac
Ginger essential oil can boost sexual desire and can address matters such as infertility and loss of libido. According to research, it increases sperm count and motility and enhances testosterone levels. Additionally, ginger has warming and stimulating properties. It aids in stress relief and brings forward feelings of courage and self-awareness which remove any self-doubt and fear.
7. Relieves PMS
In aromatherapy, ginger oil can relieve feelings of anxiety, depression and exhaustion. Its warming nature provokes feelings of confidence.
Published research was conducted on women suffering from PMS who took ginger capsules daily seven days before menstruation and three days after menstruation for three cycles. The results showed a decline in PMS symptoms including mood changes and physical symptoms.
How to Use Ginger Essential Oil
Ginger essential oil has a warm and spicy scent and you can ingest it internally or use it topically after diluting it in a carrier oil to use it in a massage session. Also, if you want to boost your mood and feelings, you can add two to three drops to a diffuser or inhale twice daily. Additionally, if you want to amplify the effect, you can add few drops of ginger oil to warm bath water and enjoy a relaxing bath!
You can read here to learn more about ginger essential oil benefits. Also you can check Aromavibes for a wide range of essential oils!