Ginger root has been used as an herbal treatment in Chinese and Indian medicine since ancient times. Used as a digestive aid and to treat upset stomach and nausea, some claim it is also useful for treating symptoms of arthritis, heart conditions, painful menstrual cycles as well as headaches. Studies have shown it to be effective in treating the nausea that is associated with motion sickness, pregnancy or chemotherapy treatment.
What to Look for
Ginger root is a rhizome, or an underground stem, of the plant Zingiber. You can purchase the whole root in the produce section of your local grocer. The thick plant root is smooth and beige in color.
Ginger root can be grated and used as a cooking spice, adding wonderful flavor to meats and vegetable dishes. It is also found in a variety of foods and drinks including gingerbread, gingersnap cookies and ginger ale. Candied ginger is readily available in Chinese food markets as well.
Ginger products are made from fresh or dried ginger root. The herb is available in most health food stores in the form of extracts, tinctures, capsules and oils. You can also purchase fresh ginger root that can be prepared as a tea. Steeping a ginger tea may help relieve cold and flu symptoms or headache: Steep 2 tbs. of freshly grated ginger root in hot water and strain into a teacup.
Ginger can also be found in capsule form. Generally capsules contain 500 mg of powdered ginger. For adults, intake should not exceed 4 g per day, but check with your pharmacist. A serving of 2 to 4 g of fresh root daily (1/4 to 1 g of powdered root) has been shown to prevent symptoms of nausea. Simply chew a 1/4 oz. piece of fresh ginger when needed.
Common Pitfalls
There does not seem to be any harm in eating ginger, consuming it as a cooking spice, or drinking it as a tea. However, there is a potential for toxicity from taking large doses via supplements. It may also interact with other medications, altering the effects or triggering side effects when combined.
Always check with your physician before taking a supplement. Be sure to tell your doctor if you are taking ginger root, or any herbal supplement, before having surgery or having any anesthesia for any reason. Avoid ginger root if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, or have a bleeding disorder or gallstones.
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