Radioprotective Effects From Gingerol and Other Plant-Based Compounds
Compounds in ginger root protect white blood cells in vitro (a test tube or petri dish) against genetic damage caused by exposure to radiation as a cancer treatment. But so have many other plant-based foods, and as Greger asserts, “lots of different plant products have been found to be protective in vitro against radiation damage by a whole variety of mechanisms.”
The problem with radiation for treating cancer patients is that side effects include damage to normal tissue. Radioprotective compounds found in ginger, as well as gogi berries, garlic and turmeric, can selectively protect normal tissues against radiation injury. Simultaneously, it allows the use of higher doses of radiation for cancerous cells “and possible cure,” one study11 notes.
What Else Is Ginger Known For?
After years of study, ginger has been identified as a dramatic game-changer in several areas of human health. Besides being anti-inflammatory and a powerful antioxidant, there are antimicrobial properties that fight premature aging. You’ll also find gingerols, shogaols16 and paradols, less prominent but effective compounds in the rough-looking rhizome. Studies list numerous areas that benefit in the way of disease treatment and prevention due to ginger intervention, including:
- Degenerative disorders such as arthritis and rheumatism
- Digestive health such as indigestion, constipation and ulcers
- Cardiovascular disorders, from atherosclerosis to hypertension
- Nausea from pregnancy and motion sickness
- Diabetes mellitus, significantly lowered blood glucose
- Ginger ameliorates fructose-induced fatty liver … in rats.
Cancer prevention is another area that’s been well documented in regard to ginger. Studies note that “Ginger and its bioactive molecules are effective in controlling the extent of colorectal, gastric, ovarian, liver, skin, breast and prostate cancers.” Preventive properties are cited in another study, 6-shagaol being the pungent component involved in targeting breast cancer, particularly breast cancer stem cells.
Other benefits from ginger, whether it’s fresh or in supplement form, have a wide array of benefits. Because it can be used in powder form for tea, sliced raw in stir-fries and crystalized for a tasty punch of powerful antioxidants, it’s never too late to try your hand at experimenting with ways to get more ginger in your diet. You may never know how effective it’s been in disease prevention and adding years to your life.
Ref: Dr Mercola (Source: Mercola.com; November 5, 2018; https://tinyurl.com/ybjmawl8)
