Ginger root is an underground stem belonging to the rhizome family. Ginger can be minced, sliced or crystallized to add flavor and heat to food. It can also be formulated into a drink and ingested as ginger ale. It grows mainly in Jamaica, West Africa, India and China. The Centers for Disease Control states that rhizomes are not significant nutrient sources, but ginger has been used since ancient times as a preservative and as a remedy to treat digestive problems.
Motion Sickness
Ginger root has been shown to improve digestive discomfort experienced during motion sickness. A study referenced by University of Maryland Medical Center indicates that new sailors consuming powdered ginger had reduced incidence of vomiting and cold sweats compared with those given a placebo. Other studies comparing ginger's effects with the effects of medications found that medications were more effective for reducing motion sickness. However, University of Maryland Medical Center indicates that many individuals prefer to take ginger to avoid the possible side effects of medication.
Pregnancy
Pregnancy is a time that many women have their first bout with extreme nausea and vomiting. Morning sickness, which affects most pregnant women, can range from mild to debilitating. A study referenced in "Acupuncture Today" indicates that ginger capsules administered to pregnant women were effective for significantly decreasing nausea and vomiting compared to a placebo. The study used capsules made from fresh ginger roots. Scientists could not determine if ginger supplements available at health food stores would provide the same benefits.
Arthritis
Ginger root has been used for years to treat inflammation. Arthritis is a painful condition involving inflammation of the joints. A study in "Arthritis and Rheumatism" involving 247 patients with osteoarthritis of the knee found ginger root to be effective for relieving symptoms compared with a placebo. Some patients receiving ginger root experienced gastrointestinal distress, but these side effects were mild.
References
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Ginger
- Iowa State University Extension Food Highlights: Ginger
- Centers for Disease Control: Rhizomes
- "Arthritis and Rheumatism": Effects of Ginger Extract on Knee Pain in Patients with Osteoarthritis
- Acupuncture Today: Ginger Root Effective Against Pregnancy-related Nausea and Vomiting
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