GINGER TURMERIC PAPAIN AND BROMELAIN

Ginger
Ginger is extracted from the root of the Zingiber officinale plant. The spice was considered a luxury 5,000 years ago, particularly after the fall of the Roman Empire. The Zingiber officinale plant is native to Southern Asia and belongs to the Curcuma family. Ginger is mainly used for its anti-inflammatory properties, although it is also antiseptic and anti-allergenic. The golden root plays a role in vascular health which leads to improved health of the cardiovascular system and digestive tract, as well as for settling the stomach during feelings of discomfort.

Turmeric
Turmeric is extracted from the root of the Curcuma longa plant and as its name suggests, belongs to the same family as ginger. Turmeric is highly valued in India where it is used for rituals and other ceremonial occasions, or the dyeing of cow skins during festivals. Turmeric became very fashionable in the 19th century, providing colour to bandanas in the form of yellow or red spots. The root is thought to provide health benefits to the liver and joints, but its main role is within the digestive system. Turmeric stimulates and maintains appetite when feelings of hunger are low, particularly when the stomach is unsettled. Turmeric supports digestion by contributing to the production of digestive fluids to prompt feelings of appetite.

Papain
Papain is an enzyme present in the leaves, latex, roots and fruit of the papaya plant, botanically known as the Carica papaya. The plant is an evergreen that can grow to heights of 10m in optimal conditions. The tree is native to Mexico and Central America. Papain may be taken for its anti-inflammatory properties.

Bromelain
Bromelain is an enzyme found in both pineapple juice and the pineapple stem. The pineapple grows on the Ananas comosus plant which isn't a tree, contrary to popular belief. The name Ananas originates from the Guarani word nana meaning 'fragrant excellent fruit'. The fruit was highly valued in the 18th and 19th century in Britain for its exotic aesthetics and was purchased by those who could afford the fruit and wanted to show off their social status. Like papain, bromelain may be supplemented for its anti-inflammatory properties to reduce swelling.