Ginger has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that can help improve skin health. In this opportunity, we share 6 useful ways to take advantage of its properties.
Since ancient times, ginger has been included in some natural remedies to care for skin health. However, the evidence for its safety and efficacy remains insufficient. Despite this, there are those who consider that it is beneficial and bet on including it in their beauty routine.
Ginger, as evidenced by research published in the International Journal of Preventive Medicine (1), is an anti-inflammatory and antioxidant spice, rich in phytochemicals. Therefore, it is believed that it confers several benefits to the skin. However, it should be used with caution, combined with other natural ingredients. Are you interested in trying it?
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Ginger remedies for skin health
First of all, it is important to note that ginger is not a first-line treatment for skin problems. Although it has been used in popular culture as part of the beauty routine, there is not enough evidence to make claims.
For this reason, in case of acne, burns, scars or any other skin problem, it is essential to consult the dermatologist and follow his recommendations. Natural remedies should be considered merely as a supplement.
Also, it is advisable to be careful in case of sensitive skin, since this ingredient can be irritating. In all cases, it should be used in small amounts, preferably diluted or combined.
1.Scrub:
According to the American Association of the Academy of Dermatology (2), exfoliation is the process of removing dead cells from the outer layer of the skin. To do it safely, it is important to consider the skin type.
In this sense, keep in mind that this natural alternative should be used only in combination or oily skin. In addition, it must be applied gently, making circular movements.
Ingredients:
- 1 teaspoon of grated ginger root (3 g)
- 2 tablespoons of brown sugar (30 g)
- ⅓ cup of coconut oil (67 g)
Preparation:
- Take a bowl or container and grate the ginger root.
- Add two tablespoons of brown sugar and finally add the half cup of coconut oil. You can also substitute this oil with almond oil to give a pleasant aroma to the preparation.
- Mix the ingredients very well until a homogeneous mass is formed.
- You can apply the mixture once a week, always avoiding contact with the eyes and mucous membranes.
2. Ginger for wound healing:
Ginger compounds, like gingerol and shogaol, have an anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effect that can contribute to wound healing, according to a study published in the Asian Pacific Journal of Tropical Biomedicine (3).
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons of fresh ginger (20 g)
- 1 cup of water (250 ml)
Preparation:
- Blend the ginger with the water until both ingredients are integrated.
- Next, apply the mixture with a cotton cloth as a compress on the affected area.
- Repeat its use once a day, every day.
3. Ginger and turmeric tea for acne:
There is not enough evidence on the effectiveness of herbal acne remedies. Despite this, plants like ginger and turmeric have shown positive effects in their treatment.
In a study published in the Jundishapur Journal of Microbiology (4), ginger is suggested as an adjunct to this skin health problem.
Ingredients:
- 1 teaspoon of ginger root (3 g)
- 1 teaspoon of turmeric powder (3 g)
- 3 drops of lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon of honey (5 g)
- 1 cup of water (250 ml)
Preparation:
- Take a pot and bring a cup of water to a boil.
- When it reaches the boiling point, add the peeled and chopped ginger root.
- Add the turmeric powder and stir well.
- Keep the mixture on low flame for 15 minutes. Turn it off and strain it.
- Finally, add the lemon juice & honey, and mix well.
- Drink this tea 3 times a day, minimum 3 times a week
4. Ginger, orange and carrot smoothie:
Including healthy foods in the diet is a great way to promote skin health. For this reason, we suggest you prepare this delicious ginger, orange and carrot smoothie.
Ingredients:
- 1 teaspoon of ground ginger (3 g)
- 1 orange
- 3 carrots
Preparation:
- Peel all the ingredients very well and blend until smooth.
- It can be refrigerated and drunk once a day.
5. Ginger for skin blemishes:
There is no evidence to show that ginger or milk can lighten blemishes on the skin. Despite this, in popular culture, it has been used for this purpose. Follow the below steps if you want to try this.
Ingredients:
- 1 glass of milk (200 ml)
- 1 tablespoon of ginger powder (7 g)
Preparation:
- In a glass of milk add a tablespoon of ginger powder and stir well.
- Take it daily, once a day.
6. Ginger Treatment for Dandruff:
According to a publication in the Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine (5), ginger has antifungal properties that have been exploited in the preparation of anti-dandruff shampoos. However, it can also be tested in its natural state.
Ingredients:
- 1 ginger root
- 1 tablespoon of sesame oil (15 ml)
- The juice of 1 lemon
Preparation:
- Peel the ginger root and chop it into pieces.
- Crush it with a mortar to extract the juice.
- Put the extracted juice in a bottle and add a tablespoon of sesame oil (it can be replaced by olive oil).
- Finally, add the lemon juice and shake the mixture well.
Application:
- To apply the treatment, massage the scalp with it and leave it to act for 15 to 30 minutes.
- Then rinse your hair with warm water and apply your usual shampoo.
- Use it regularly until you notice improvement.
Remember! Like all herbal remedies, ginger should not be a first-line treatment. Simply, it should be considered as an adjunct to skin health. Any skin problem should be taken care of by the dermatologist.