What Does Ginger Root Do For The Body?

Ginger root is not only used to make your favorite ginger snap cookies, ginger ale and stir-fry, it's also a very commonly used medicinal herb, says Medicinal Herb Info. Ginger root has been a part of the Chinese, Ayurvedic and Arabic systems of healing for thousands of years, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center, or UMMC, website. Before you begin to use ginger for medicinal purposes, talk about it with your health care provider.

Ginger Uses

Ginger is often recommended by health care providers as a treatment for nausea from motion sickness, morning sickness and cancer treatment, according to the UMMC site. Research results seem to show promise for all of these conditions.The website for the U.S. National Library of Medicine, or NLM, adds that ginger shows promise for treating migraine headaches, osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and it also seems to have blood thinning properties.

Research

One research study published on the PubMed.gov website revealed ginger root's potential as an anti-inflammatory medication and treatment for arthritis. Another study revealed the vast inconsistency in dosing information and instructions for use between various brands of ginger supplements. You should discuss the use of ginger with your health care provider or pharmacist to get personalized recommendations.

Possible Side Effects

The UMMC website says that when ginger is taken in moderation, it's considered to be quite safe. But now and then, some people taking ginger may experience diarrhea, a minor irritation in the mouth or an upset stomach. Some people may also have allergic reactions to ginger, says the USNLM site. Watch for signs of allergic reaction, and if they occur, stop using it.

Potential Interactions

There are a few possible interactions that could occur when you take ginger with other supplements or medications. The NLM site warns that people who take blood thinners, antacids, anti-reflux medications, over-the-counter anti-inflammatory drugs such as ibuprofen or naproxen, heart medications, diabetes drugs, cholesterol-lowering drugs, medication for high blood pressure, allergy drugs, cancer treatments or anti-inflammatories should not take ginger. If you have questions about ginger's possible interactions with the medications and supplements you take, discuss them with your health care provider or pharmacist.

Forms Used

Ginger comes in different forms. The most commonly found is ground root powder that is available in the spice section of your supermarket. You can also find it in tea, capsule, extract and oil forms.