Irritable bowel syndrome, or IBS, is a disorder affecting the muscles of the digestive tract that start to contract abnormally, either too fast or too slow. As a result, abdominal cramps associated with either diarrhea or constipation occurs in individuals with IBS. This condition affects up to 20 percent of Americans, and more women than men are diagnosed with IBS, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. If you are considering using ginger to help improve this condition, first talk to your health care provider.
IBS and Natural Medicine
Alternative medicine is used by 35 percent of American children who have IBS, and ginger, along with massage therapy and yoga, were the most frequently used alternative and complementary therapies. This study, reported in the July 2008 issue of "BMC Alternative and Complementary Medicine," evaluated over 1,000 children diagnosed with irritable bowel syndrome.
IBS and Ginger
Ginger, medically known as Zingiber officinale, has various health benefits, being used in oriental medicine for over 2,00 years. Ginger has been researched for relieving digestive complaints like nausea and vomiting related to pregnancy. Ginger also has similar effect with digestive enzymes and helps manage and prevent gastrointestinal cramps. It helps improve the motility of the digestive tract and optimize the tone of the muscles found on the wall of the gut, says Carolyn Dean, author of " IBS for Dummies." In combination with other Chinese herbs, ginger has been found to be beneficial for reducing symptoms associated with irritable bowel syndrome, indicates UMMC.
Safety, Drug Interactions and Available Forms
Ginger has an excellent safety profile, being suitable for children over 2 years of age and adults alike. To avoid side effects like mild heartburn, diarrhea and mouth irritation, you should use ginger supplements in capsule form. Individuals with gallstones who are scheduled for surgery or those taking blood-thinning medication should take this supplement cautiously and only under medical supervision.
Ginger may interfere with blood-thinning drugs like aspirin and warfarin.
For medicinal purposes, ginger is available as a fresh root, juice or extract, as well as in capsule, tincture or oil forms.
Considerations
Consult a qualified health care provider to learn more about this supplement and optimal dosage that may help improve your symptoms. A healthy diet, elimination of stress and homeopathic remedies may also help decrease symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome, noted UMMC. Ginger-based supplements do not replace and should not be used to replace any conventional drugs prescribed for IBS.
References
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Ginger
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Irritable Bowel Syndrome
- "IBS for Dummies"; Carolyn Dean et al.; 2005
- "BMC Alternative and Complementary Medicine"; Complementary and Alternative Medicine Use and Cost in Functional Bowel Disorders: A Six-Month Prospective Study in a Large HMO; M.A. Van Tilburg et al.; July 2008
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