Asthma is a lung disorder characterized by excess mucus and spasm and inflammation of the bronchi, which are the airway tubes. An acute asthma attack is a medical emergency and has to be treated immediately by a qualified professional. Ginger has been used by alternative health care providers to improve symptoms of asthma, and some clinical research supports this benefit. Before taking ginger supplements for asthma, you should first talk to your doctor.
About Ginger
Ginger, scientifically known as Zingiber officinale, is a rhizome herb that has been used as a spice in Asian cuisine and also as a medicinal herb in Oriental medicine for thousands of years. The key active ingredients of ginger are its oil and two plant compounds called shogaols and gingerols. While best known for improving digestive symptoms such as nausea and stomach upset, this herb has also been studies for it anti-inflammatory and antiasthma qualities.
Research
Research studies showed that ginger reduces inflammation and has antioxidant actions. Gingerol has the ability to reduce inflammation of the airways, according to a study published in the December 2010 issue of the "Journal of International Pharmacology." This study was conducted in animal subjects, and the researchers indicated that ginger may effectively manage symptoms of allergic asthma. Another study, conducted by a research team from MacMaster University, Canada, found that ginger inhibited airway contraction and improved lung functions, thus having potential to treat respiratory conditions like asthma. This study was published in the May 2008 issue of the "Canadian Journal of Physiology and Pharmacology."
Dosage
Ginger should not be used in children younger those 2 years of age. In adults, the daily intake should not exceed 4 g. A typical dose is around 2,000 mg of ginger taken with food. Pregnant women should not take more than 1 g a day. Ginger supplements are available in extract, tea, tincture, capsule and liquid forms and are derived from either fresh or dried ginger root.
Safety
Ginger is generally considered safe and well tolerated. In rare cases, ginger may cause mild stomach upset, heartburn or diarrhea. Excessive amounts of ginger may interfere with blood thinning drugs and herbs.
Considerations
Consult a qualified health care provider to find out the optimal dosage of ginger for your condition. Keep in mind that ginger does not replace antiasthma drugs and is not approved by U.S. Food and Drug Administration to treat asthma.
References
- Natural Medicinal Herbs.com: Ginger
- University of Maryland, Medical Center: Ginger
- "Journal of International Pharmacology"; Ginger Prevents Th2-mediated Immune Responses in a Mouse Model of Airway Inflammation; ML.Ahui et al; December, 2008
- "Canadian Journal of Physiology and Pharmacology"; Ginger Attenuates Acetylcholine-induced Contraction and Ca2+ Signalling in Murine Airway Smooth Muscle Cells; MN.Ghayur et al; May, 2008
