Herbs & Supplements

Who is this for?

Uses

Most commonly known in North America as a flavoring for food, ginger may also be taken orally in higher amounts as an herbal remedy. One of its main medical uses is to prevent or relieve nausea resulting from chemotherapy, motion sickness, pregnancy, and surgery. Some evidence suggests that ginger decreases the time that food or other substances stay in the stomach, which could help to relieve nausea and a full feeling after eating. Results of laboratory studies as well as from small studies conducted among seasick sailors or ship passengers, found that ginger generally has more effectiveness for relieving motion sickness than placebo (inactive sugar pills). Several comparisons between ginger and prescription or non-prescription drugs have been conducted for relieving the nausea of pregnancy, but results are inconclusive. In some of the studies, similar effectiveness was seen between ginger and the comparator drug, while other studies found less or no effectiveness for ginger as compared to the drug. In general, no adverse effects were noted from using ginger, for either the mother or the developing baby.

Ginger has also been used widely in folk medicine to treat other gastrointestinal (GI) problems. Recent studies may confirm that ginger directly affects the GI tract, helping to improve muscle tone and to prevent abnormally rapid and strong intestinal contractions. As a result, it may help to relieve cramps or upset stomach. It has also been used to treat gas and heartburn, although some individuals find that it worsens heartburn. In a promising study of laboratory mice, ginger effectively blocked the attachment of potentially harmful Escherichia coli (E. coli) bacteria to parts of the small intestines, preventing or lessening the severe diarrhea that often follows food poisoning caused by E. coli.

Ginger has many other potential medical uses. Laboratory studies suggest that it may protect nerve cells from damage of the type that causes Alzheimer's disease. Results of limited studies in animals with diabetes show that ginger may reduce blood levels of sugar and cholesterol, while also possibly lowering blood pressure. Laboratory studies using many different human cancer cell lines have shown generally positive results, with ginger or chemicals derived from it promoting the disintegration of cancer cells and limiting the growth of new blood vessels that supply blood to tumors. In very early animal studies, ginger has shown some effectiveness for protecting sperm from damage by anticancer drugs and keeping certain chemicals and alcohol from damaging the kidneys, liver, and other organs. However, no human studies with similar results have been reported.

A few small studies that were conducted in humans have shown some promise for supplemental ginger in the treatment of both osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis (RA), due to possible anti-inflammatory effects. A combination of ginger and feverfew has relieved migraine headaches for participants in one small study. More research is needed for these and other possible uses of ginger as a dietary supplement.

Topically, the juice of fresh ginger has been used in folk medicine as a remedy for burns and minor skin irritation. Studies of laboratory cultures show that applying ginger--usually as a liquid extract, but sometimes in a patch--may kill or disable certain bacteria, fungi, and viruses. It may have anti-inflammatory effects, as well. Another traditional use for topical ginger is relieving toothaches. None of these uses has been proven by clinical studies.