Ginger isn't just used as a side item when ordering sushi. For centuries, digestive tract ailments, including nausea, have been treated with ginger. Most grocery stores sell fresh ginger root in the produce department. Nausea often occurs during the early months of pregnancy, when one gets seasick and even when taking certain medications. A negative side effect of chemotherapy is nausea. The symptom may or may not be accompanied with vomiting. Using fresh ginger is a natural method of easing your queasy stomach without taking strong medications.
Methodology
Ginger decreases nausea, vomiting and even motion sickness. According to DietChannel.com, it increases saliva and digestive juices in the digestive tract. The root also neutralizes stomach acid and increases movement of the intestines. The herb is generally safe for most people and has a wide range of dosages.
Preparation
Adding fresh ginger to your diet can start by simply chewing a fresh cube or slice of the root. Use a vegetable peeler to remove the outer surface. Add a small slice of fresh ginger to a cup of hot water to create ginger tea. Drink the tea throughout the day to decrease nausea. Shred ginger and add eat small amounts with other bland foods, such as rice or crackers, when feeling nauseous. Look for canned or bottled ginger in the international food section if fresh ginger is not available. Candied or crystallized ginger is dried and then coated in sugar. Although this kind is not fresh, the candy version is the preferred version of ginger for some.
Considerations
The Arizona Cancer Center states a study performed by the National Society of Clinical Oncology showed ginger helped relieve nausea when patients were also taking anti-nausea medications. The website notes that ginger may not simply relieve nausea but may actually help these drugs work more effectively. The study found that patients taking 250 mg two to four times a day had the most positive effects of the ginger. The ginger was not fresh but in capsule form. Grind ginger and use ¼ to ½ tsp. to get similar effects. Food items stating ginger as an ingredient often have very little fresh ginger, reports the Arizona Cancer Center. Many commercial food items may simply contain ginger flavoring and not real ginger.
Warning
According to the Cleveland Clinic, do not eat fresh ginger if you are taking anticoagulant medications, such as warfarin. These drugs thin the blood and prevent clotting. Additional ginger may increase the risk of bleeding. Ginger also interferes with acid blockers and proton pump inhibitors, according to the Arizona Cancer Center. Always discuss taking herbs, such as fresh ginger, with a medical doctor if you are taking the mentioned medications.
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