Ginger is a flowering plant that originated in Southeast Asia. It’s among the healthiest (and most delicious) spices on the planet.

It belongs to the Zingiberaceae family, and it’s closely related to turmeric, cardamom, and galangal.

The rhizome (underground part of the stem) is the part commonly used as a spice. It’s often called ginger root or, simply, ginger.

Ginger can be used fresh, dried, powdered, or as an oil or juice. It’s a very common ingredient in recipes. It’s sometimes added to processed foods and cosmetics.

Here are 11 health benefits of ginger that are supported by scientific research.

1. High in gingerol, a substance with powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
2. Just 1–1.5 grams of ginger can help prevent various types of nausea, including chemotherapy-related nausea, nausea after surgery, and morning sickness.
3. Improves weight-related measurements. These include body weight and the waist-hip ratio.
4. Reduces symptoms of osteoarthritis, especially osteoarthritis of the knee.
5. Lowers blood sugar levels and improves various heart disease risk factors in people with type 2 diabetes.
6. Speed up emptying of the stomach, which can be beneficial for people with indigestion and related stomach discomfort.
7. Very effective against menstrual pain when taken at the beginning of the menstrual period.
8. Leads to significant reductions in LDL (bad) cholesterol, total cholesterol, and blood triglyceride levels..
9. Contains the substance gingerol, which has protective effects against cancer.
10. Protects against age-related damage to the brain. It also helps improve brain function in middle-aged women.
11. Fights harmful bacteria and viruses, which could reduce your risk for infections.