Rothell Hechanova, Noel Carlo Pueyo (January 2004)
Philippine Science High School Western Visayas Campus – Department of Science and Technology (DOST-PSHS WVC), Brgy. Bito-on, Jaro, Iloilo City 5000, Philippines
ABSTRACT
Ginger is a staple in the diet of many Filipinos because of its abundance and its multiple purposes. Zingiber officinale, or Ginger, has helped in alleviating gas pains and colds Studies show that ginger can kill tuberculosis germs both in vitro and vivo It is effective in alleviating respiratory conditions like asthma, cough and cold. It reduces spasms and cramps, cleanses colon, stimulates circulation and dispel chills. It also prevents nausea and vomiting, alleviates gas pain and indigestion, helps reduce cholesterol, regulates blood pressure and prevents blood clots that trigger heart attacks and some strokes.
This study is aimed to determine whether ginger (Zingiber officinale) has a significant effect on the blood cholesterol level of guinea pigs (Cavia porcellus). The dependent variables are the amount of butter and ginger to be administered. The Independent variable is the blood cholesterol level of the guinea pigs
The guinea pigs were obtained and isolated at one cage per guinea pig They were fed with three different diets for 5 days per treatment. These were normal diet, butter diet, and ginger diet. They were also given sufficient supply of water and grass, the blood samples were obtained from the guinea pigs through either cauterization of the nails and the use of the syringe.
Results had shown that ginger is a potential agent in reducing the blood cholesterol of guinea pigs. It has helped reduce an amount of blood cholesterol level in the guinea pigs and it may prove effective in higher forms of mammals.