Page 60 - The Autoimmune Protocol
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The Autoimmune Protocol
ginger and turmeric are related plants in the Zingiberacaea family. One of the great things
about ginger is that it not only helps with pain and inflammation, it helps ease an upset
stomach as well!
Those with inflammatory bowel diseases as a result of autoimmune dysfunction may
especially benefit from ginger. Ginger can relax and comfort the intestinal tract, settle an
upset stomach, relieve nausea, and soothe any intestinal discomfort. It also works to curb
inflammation in a similar fashion that prescription COX-2 inhibitor drugs work.
Research suggests that ginger is
also a very beneficial treatment
for those with joint pain
associated with osteoarthritis
and rheumatoid arthritis. It
may work similar to ibuprofen
for joint pain. Other research
shows ginger to be a promising
treatment for joint recovery
after surgery, as well as help
with exercise-induced Tiia Monto, Own Work, 2018, CC. 4.0
muscular injuries.
In addition to ginger’s amazing anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and digestive properties, it
also contains antioxidants. Antioxidants are great for anyone, but especially for those with
autoimmune issues. Antioxidants can help to fight free-radicals that cause damage in the
body. Ginger is often utilized in herbal remedies for colds and viruses because it has been
shown to support the immune system.
Ginger Tea Recipe for Inflammation and Pain
To create a helpful tea using ginger, simply boil one-and-a-half cups of water with six thin
slices of fresh ginger root for ten to fifteen minutes. Squeeze one lemon and add the juice
to the hot, ginger-infused water. Pour into a cup and enjoy with raw honey to taste. Do
this once or twice daily to enjoy the therapeutic benefits ginger has to offer.
Ginger Tincture
Ginger can also be enjoyed in tincture form. Infusing ginger to make a tincture can create
a more potent extract than tea, as well as a great medicinal tool in your anti-inflammatory
kit that will last for years. To create your own tincture using ginger, start by purchasing
organic ginger roots. Scrub them with water to clean them before you begin processing
the roots. Shave off the outside skin with a potato peeler or similar instrument (some
people skip this step, and that is okay). Finely chop the roots with a knife or food
processor. Put the chopped roots in a small jar. Pour at least 80 proof alcohol into the jar
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