Ginger has long been known to increase the energy pathways of the skin and scalp, having a clearing and youth promoting effect. Research conducted at Cornell University Medical Center has found that Ginger may help prevent strokes and hardening of the arteries. The active ingredients of Ginger, a family of Gingerols, is proven effective preventing recurrences of so-called "little-strokes." It is thought that the Gingerols may inhibit an enzyme that causes cells to clot, thus Ginger has a blood-thinning effect, although interestingly, Ginger's activities appear to be inhibited by Aspirin. Ginger is also thought capable of slowly reducing blood cholesterol levels. Ginger has numerous other pharmacological properties as well, exerting effects on the digestive and central nervous system. It acts as a stimulant on the gastrointestinal tract, increasing peristalsis and tone of the intestinal muscle, and extracts of Ginger have been shown to stimulate the vasomotor and respiratory centers as well. Ginger has also demonstrated some limited effectiveness in case studies of migraine headaches, PMS cramping and irregularities, and rheumatic and arthritic disorders, possibly because of its ability to inhibit the synthesis of certain prostaglandins, which may explain its antiinflammatory effects. Considerable interest has been shown in Ginger as an antiemetic in view of if its lack of side effects in comparison with other antiemetic drugs. Its prophylactic effects on symptoms of motion sickness has been assessed in clinical trials wherein vomiting was significantly reduced, as well as vertigo. Lastly, Ginger is thought to bring color to the face and to the hair, and its root has also been used historically as a cosmetic rouge for the face.