Can You Eat Ginger Skin? Benefits, Uses, and Safety Tips

Can You Eat Ginger Skin?

Ginger is a flowering plant that has been used for centuries both as a spice and as a natural remedy. The rhizome or root of the ginger plant is well known for its health benefits and culinary uses. But what about the skin? Is ginger skin edible? Let's take a closer look.

Is Ginger Skin Toxic?

The skin of fresh ginger root is completely edible and does not contain any toxins. Ginger skin contains fiber and nutrients just like the flesh of the root. In fact, ginger skin is rich in antioxidants and oils that give ginger its unique flavor and fragrance.

The skin is also where ginger's essential oils are most concentrated, so eating ginger skin can provide a stronger ginger flavor. The spicy, pungent taste of ginger comes from gingerols, shogaols, paradols, and zingerone that are most abundant near the skin.

So not only is ginger skin safe to eat, but it also adds extra flavor and health benefits when consumed. Ginger skin does not need to be peeled before eating or cooking.

Benefits of Eating Ginger Skin

Here are some of the top benefits of eating ginger skin:

• Contains antioxidants - Ginger skin contains antioxidants like gingerols and shogaols that can help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in the body.
• Rich in nutrients - Ginger skin provides extra fiber, amino acids, vitamins, and minerals like potassium, phosphorus, and magnesium.
• Anti-nausea effects - The compounds in ginger skin can help reduce nausea, vomiting, and motion sickness.
• Anti-inflammatory properties - Gingerols in the skin have anti-inflammatory effects that may help relieve joint pain or swelling.
• Supports digestion - Eating ginger skin adds fiber for healthy digestion and compounds that stimulate bile, digestive enzymes, and gut motility.

Overall, ginger skin provides all the same medicinal properties as the ginger root flesh but at a higher concentration.

How to Eat Ginger Skin

There are lots of ways to eat ginger skin:

• Add unpeeled, sliced ginger to stir fries, soups, and curry dishes.
• Juice fresh ginger with the skin on and add to smoothies or other drinks.
• Dehydrate ginger slices with the skin on to make ginger candy or dried ginger.
• Infuse sliced ginger skin in hot water to make ginger tea.
• Blend ginger skin into dressings, marinades, or sauces.
• Pickle ginger skin for a tasty, probiotic-rich condiment.
• Make candied ginger using the whole unpeeled root.
• Use ginger skin to make ginger bug for naturally fermented sodas and beers.

The applications are endless! The skin can be used wherever you would normally use peeled ginger.

Does Ginger Skin Need to Be Peeled?

Ginger skin or peel does not need to be removed before using the root. However, there are some instances where you may want to peel ginger:

• If you prefer a milder flavor - The skin is where the strongest "gingery" flavors concentrate.
• For smooth purees or juices - The skin may give a grainy, fibrous texture.
• If appearance matters - The thin beige skin can look unappetizing in some dishes.
• If the ginger is old - Older ginger skin can get tough and woody.

For most uses, new fresh ginger can be used skin and all. But if ginger skin detracts from a dish, feel free to peel it.

Does Ginger Skin Cause Digestive Upset?

For most people, ginger skin is easy to digest and may actually ease digestive issues like gas, bloating, nausea, and constipation. The fiber and phytochemicals in ginger skin have carminative and anti-spasmodic effects to relax the gastrointestinal tract.

However, for some people ginger skin could potentially cause mild digestive upset or irritation:

• Those with sensitivities to high fiber foods may experience more gas or bloating.
• The strong compounds in ginger skin may irritate those with ulcers, IBS, or other GI conditions.
• Old, tough ginger skin may not break down fully during digestion.

Start slowly when introducing more ginger skin into your diet and stop if it causes discomfort. Otherwise, ginger skin can be safely enjoyed by most people.

Should Ginger Skin Touch Food?

It's fine for ginger skin to touch and flavor food during cooking. Any microbes on the surface will be killed during thorough cooking. The skins of root vegetables grown underground tend to harbor more bacteria, but ginger skin should be no more concerning than that of potatoes, carrots, beets, etc.

However, the best practice is to wash ginger before use, even if peeling. This helps remove any dirt and reduces the risk of contamination.

You may also wish to peel ginger if it will not be thoroughly cooked, like when making raw ginger juice or slicing it for sushi. Peeling is also recommended when giving ginger to someone who is immunocompromised.

How to Store Ginger Root with Skin On

Fresh ginger root will keep longer when stored with the skin on. The skin helps retain moisture and prevent the cut ends from drying out. To store ginger:

• Choose firm, unshriveled ginger roots with smooth, tight skin.
• Trim any dried ends or tips.
• Store unpeeled ginger wrapped loosely in a paper towel inside an open plastic bag.
• Keep ginger in the warmest area of the fridge, as cold damages ginger over time.

Stored this way in the refrigerator, fresh ginger will last 2-3 weeks. Ginger may also be frozen for longer storage. Simply grate the frozen ginger skin and all into recipes.

The Takeaway

Ginger skin is not only edible, but nutritious and full of flavor. The skin contains beneficial antioxidants, essential oils, vitamins, and minerals. Eating ginger skin may also help reduce nausea, inflammation, and poor digestion. To enjoy the benefits of ginger skin, simply use unpeeled ginger anytime a recipe calls for fresh ginger root. The skin can be juiced, cooked, dried, candied and more for a spicy, aromatic kick.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.