Ginger is a tropical plant that is originally came from Asia but is now cultivated in tropical areas of the world, particularly in Jamaica, according to Medicinal Herb Info. The roots of the ginger plant are dried, then used in cooking and to make medicinal treatments. Before you begin to use ginger as a treatment for acid reflux, ask your health-care provider for advice.
Acid Reflux Explained
According to MayoClinic.com, acid reflux occurs when stomach acid backs up into the esophagus, causing a burning sensation. This burning is often called heartburn and can accompany the tastes of foods or sour liquid in the back of the throat. Sometimes, over-the-counter antacids can help relieve the symptoms, but when it happens often, have your condition evaluated by your health-care provider.
Ginger Uses
Ginger is used to treat a number of conditions such as nausea, motion sickness, migraine, rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, morning sickness and as a blood thinner, says the U.S. National Library of Medicine. The University of Maryland Medical Center adds that ginger is used for chemotherapy nausea, as an anti-inflammatory, to lower cholesterol, to help prevent atherosclerosis or hardening of the arteries and to relieve nausea and vomiting after surgery.
Research
The National Center for Complementary & Alternative Medicine describes the results of studies of ginger's effects in treating certain conditions. The studies suggest that ginger is safe for short-term use to relieve the nausea from morning sickness during pregnancy. Further research will study the effectiveness of ginger as a medicinal treatment and to discover what mechanism makes it work.
Possible Side Effects
Ginger isn't likely to relieve acid reflux. since the University of Maryland Medical Center says that its main side effects include heartburn and bloating. The National Library of Medicine says that taking ginger can cause heartburn, gas, belching and a bad taste in the mouth. And to confirm the risk for making acid reflux worse, the NCCAM site also says that ginger can cause heartburn.
Potential Interactions
There are a few medications and supplements that may harmfully interact with ginger such as blood thinners, says the University of Maryland Medical Center. The National Library of Medicine says that taking ginger can increase the stomach's production of acid. The site warns that people taking antacids or anti-reflux medications should avoid the use of ginger, since it may interact harmfully with these medications. If you have questions about whether ginger will cause interactions with other supplements or medications you take, discuss it with your health-care provider or pharmacist.
