Ginger, or Zingiber officinalis, has been employed medicinally--as well as for culinary use--for over 2,500 years. Known in Ayurvedic medicine as nagara and in Chinese Traditional Medicine as sheng jiang, ginger root is used by herbalists to treat myriad ailments. There are some clinical studies that support ginger's efficacy for treating certain conditions, but ginger can interfere with prescription medications; consult your doctor before taking it.
Inflammatory and Joint Diseases
Ginger is used by herbalists and naturopaths in Traditional Chinese Medicine and Ayurveda to treat osteoarthritis and rheumatism. Elements 4 Health notes that ginger suppresses the synthesis of inflammation-causing prostaglandins in much the same way non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs do, but without side effects. The World's Healthiest Foods states that ginger contains anti-inflammatory compounds called gingerols. There are numerous clinical studies supporting the belief that ginger may have some anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving effects. In a clinical study titled "The Effects of Ginger Extracts," conducted by I. Wigler et al and published in the November 2003 issue of "Osteoarthritis Cartilage," researchers found that a ginger extract was superior to a placebo in reducing pain and promoting mobility in arthritis patients.
Reduce Motion Sickness and Nausea
Herbalists often recommend ginger to combat motion sickness and nausea. Herbs 2000 notes that phenolic compounds in the ginger help to relax stomach muscles; there is also a sedative and analgesic effect on stomach tissues, which may help to relieve stomach cramps. In addition, ginger has antiseptic and anti-inflammatory actions that may help to treat stomach infections. By encouraging the secretion of digestive enzymes, ginger promotes digestion, and has a carminative--or gas-reducing--effect. Blue Shield Complementary and Alternative Health states that the digestive and nausea-reducing benefits of ginger are substantial. In a clinical study titled "The Effect of Ginger Root on Postoperative Nausea," conducted by M.E. Bone et al and published in the August 1990 issue of "Anaesthesia," researchers found that ginger significantly reduced post surgery nausea in 60 female patients.
Side Effects and Contraindications
University of Maryland Medical Center advises that ginger only be taken under the supervision of a health professional, and warns that ginger should not be used by children under 2 years old. In addition, ginger can cause mild heartburn, diarrhea and irritation of the mouth if taken in excessive doses. Do not take ginger if you have a bleeding disorder or are taking blood-thinning medications, including aspirin, and consult with your doctor before taking ginger if you have gallstones.
Dosages
Herbs 2000 notes that the usual dosage for ginger root is between 2 grams and 4 grams of the dried powder, taken two or three times a day. For nausea, the usual dose is 250 mg every two to three hours, up to 1g a day. The fresh ginger root can be made into a decoction by adding two slices of fresh ginger root to 8 oz. of water and allowing it to simmer for 10 minutes. The resultant mixture, when strained and cooled, may help to reduce fever and alleviate cough and cold symptoms.
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