Healthnotes | Ginger

Ginger

Also indexed as: Zingiber officinale
image© Steven Foster

Related Topics

Botanical names:
Zingiber officinale

Parts Used & Where Grown

Ginger is a perennial plant that grows in India, China, Mexico, and several other countries. The rhizome (underground stem) is used as both a spice and in herbal medicine.

  • Reliable and relatively consistent scientific data showing a substantial health benefit.
  • Contradictory, insufficient, or preliminary studies suggesting a health benefit or minimal health benefit.
  • For an herb, supported by traditional use but minimal or no scientific evidence. For a supplement, little scientific support.

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This supplement has been used in connection with the following health conditions:

Used for AmountWhy
Morning Sickness1 gram powder dailyranking 3rating 3Ginger, well-known for alleviating nausea and improving digestion, appears to be an effective and safe treatment for nausea and vomiting in pregnancy. Learn More
Motion SicknessAdults: 500 mg one hour before travel and then 500 mg every two to four hours as necessary; children: 250 mg (half dose)ranking 3rating 3Ginger may help prevent and treat mild to moderate cases of motion sickness. Studies have shown it to be as effective as dimenhydrinate (Dramamine) but with fewer side effects. Learn More
Osteoarthritis510 mg daily of a concentrated herbal extract, taken in divided dosesranking 3rating 3Ginger has historically been used for arthritis and rheumatism. Studies have shown it to be effective at relieving pain and swelling in people with OA. Learn More
Indigestion, Heartburn, and Low Stomach Acidity2 to 4 grams daily fresh ginger or equivalent for indigestionranking 2rating 2Ginger, with its anti-inflammatory and anti-nausea effects, has a history of use in treating gastrointestinal complaints, from flatulence to ulcers. It has been shown to enhance intestinal movements that aid digestion.Learn More
Pre- and Post-Surgery Health1 gram of powder in a capsule 60 minutes before receiving general anesthesia (inform your anesthesiologist)ranking 2rating 2Ginger has antinausea properties and may prevent postoperative nausea and vomiting. Learn More
Vertigo1 gram of powdered root dailyranking 2rating 2Ginger has been shown to be effective at reducing symptoms.Learn More
AtherosclerosisRefer to label instructions ranking 1rating 1Supplementing with ginger may reduce platelet stickiness.Learn More
Low Back PainRefer to label instructions ranking 1rating 1Herbalists often use ginger to decrease inflammation and the pain associated with it, including for those with low back pain. Learn More
Migraine HeadacheRefer to label instructions ranking 1rating 1Anecdotal evidence suggests ginger may be used for migraines and the accompanying nausea.Learn More
Rheumatoid ArthritisRefer to label instructions ranking 1rating 1Ginger is an Ayurvedic herb used to treat people with arthritis. Taking fresh or powdered ginger may reduce the symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis.Learn More
DysmenorrheaRefer to label instructions Learn More

Traditional Use (May Not Be Supported by Scientific Studies)

Traditional Chinese Medicine has recommended ginger for over 2,500 years. It is used for abdominal bloating, coughing, vomiting, diarrhea, and rheumatism. Ginger is commonly used in the Ayurvedic and Tibb systems of medicine for the treatment of inflammatory joint diseases, such as arthritis and rheumatism.

References

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The information presented in Aisle7 is for informational purposes only. It is based on scientific studies (human, animal, or in vitro), clinical experience, or traditional usage as cited in each article. The results reported may not necessarily occur in all individuals. For many of the conditions discussed, treatment with prescription or over the counter medication is also available. Consult your doctor, practitioner, and/or pharmacist for any health problem and before using any supplements or before making any changes in prescribed medications. Information expires December 2010.