Ginger is widely used both in cooking and traditional medicine, valued for its unique flavour and numerous health benefits. People often wonder whether dry ginger or fresh ginger is more advantageous for their health. Dry ginger, or sonth, is concentrated, offering strong anti-inflammatory effects, aiding digestion, and supporting respiratory health. Fresh ginger, on the other hand, is rich in antioxidants, helps relieve nausea, and also promotes digestion while boosting immunity. Choosing between the two depends on your specific health goals: dry ginger is ideal for inflammation and seasonal flu relief, while fresh ginger excels in antioxidant intake and nausea management. Including both types in your diet can provide the full spectrum of ginger’s benefits.
Uses of ginger: How it’s used in cooking and for health benefits
In India, ginger, also known as ‘adrak’, is a common addition to tea, adding a warm, invigorating spice. Beyond its culinary uses, ginger has been recognised for centuries for its medicinal qualities. It can help relieve nausea, support digestion, and alleviate common seasonal flu symptoms such as coughs and colds.With two main types of ginger available: dry and fresh, deciding which one to use can impact the benefits you receive. Both forms offer health advantages, but their effects vary depending on how they are prepared and consumed.
Dry ginger or fresh ginger: Understanding the health benefits
Health benefits of dry ginger
Dry ginger, or “sonth,” is created by drying fresh ginger roots and grinding them into a fine powder. This process removes most of the water content and concentrates the flavour and bioactive compounds, enhancing its medicinal potency.Dry ginger is renowned for improving digestion. It can relieve indigestion, reduce bloating, and ease gastrointestinal discomfort. Regular use may help maintain a healthy digestive system.
- Anti-inflammatory properties
The concentrated compounds in dry ginger have strong anti-inflammatory effects. This makes it useful for managing conditions such as arthritis or muscle and joint pain.Dry ginger is commonly used to address respiratory issues. Drinking dry ginger tea or water may relieve coughs, sore throats, and colds, providing seasonal relief during flu outbreaks.
Health benefits of fresh ginger
Fresh ginger, in its natural, raw form, is widely used for its vibrant taste and health properties. It has a zesty, pungent flavour with a subtle sweetness, making it versatile in both cooking and traditional remedies.Fresh ginger is particularly effective against nausea. It is frequently used to combat motion sickness, morning sickness during pregnancy, and nausea caused by various conditions. Consuming fresh ginger slices or preparing ginger tea can provide relief.Fresh ginger contains antioxidants that help protect the body from oxidative stress, potentially reducing the risk of chronic diseases.Like dry ginger, fresh ginger supports digestion. It stimulates saliva and bile production, aiding in the breakdown of food and preventing digestive discomfort.Fresh ginger can also help relieve symptoms of colds and flu, supporting the immune system and providing comfort during illness.
Dry ginger vs fresh ginger: Which is better
It is a common misconception that fresh ginger is always superior to dry ginger. Scientific evidence shows that the drying process actually enhances certain properties of ginger. According to the National Library of Medicine, drying fresh ginger increases its antioxidant concentration by removing water. This means that dry ginger can be more potent in some aspects than fresh ginger.However, fresh ginger retains unique benefits, particularly for respiratory support. A 2013 study published in PubMed Central found that fresh ginger may help protect the respiratory system, whereas dry ginger did not show the same effect.From an Ayurvedic perspective, dry ginger is known to balance vata dosha, making it suitable for alleviating coughs, colds, and seasonal flu. In contrast, fresh ginger may increase vata, potentially causing gas, bloating, and digestive discomfort in sensitive individuals.
How to include both in your diet
While dry ginger is often preferred for its concentrated medicinal properties, fresh ginger should not be completely avoided. Both forms offer valuable health benefits, and incorporating them thoughtfully can optimise your well-being.For respiratory issues and seasonal flu, dry ginger tea or water is recommended. For digestive support, nausea relief, and antioxidant intake, fresh ginger can be consumed raw or in teas and meals. By combining both types in your diet, you can enjoy the full spectrum of ginger’s health advantages.Also Read | 5 everyday foods you eat without realising that are secretly spiking your blood sugar levels
