Joint pain can be a mild, short-term nuisance or a chronic condition that affects your quality of life and independence. With causes such as accidents, sports injuries or diseases like arthritis, it's likely that you'll suffer from achy joints at some point in your life. Ginger is a natural remedy that can help to relieve joint pain and reduce your dependence on medications.
Ginger and Joint Pain
Structures on the surface and interior of a cell known as receptors are involved in sending pain signals to the brain. Activation of these receptors also triggers inflammation. Ginger contains active components, including gingerols and zingibain, which have anti-inflammatory properties. According to James A. Duke, author of "The Green Pharmacy," zingibain is an enzyme that breaks down proteins and suppresses inflammation by inhibiting prostaglandins --- substances that cause inflammation. It also suppresses substances that trigger pain and cause tissues to swell.
Evidence
While the healing power of ginger has long been recognized in Chinese and Ayurvedic medicine, there's little scientific evidence on its effects on arthritis and joint pain. A study published in the "Journal of Natural Products" in March 2009 revealed that both a ginger extract and one containing only gingerols and other non-gingerol components were effective in preventing joint inflammation and damage. The researchers concluded that while gingerols are well-studied for their anti-arthritic benefits, other compounds in ginger may enhance their effectiveness.
Dosage
Ginger is available in various forms such as raw, dried root, capsules, liquid extracts and topical remedies. For joint or arthritis pain, the University of Maryland Medical Center recommends taking 2 to 4 g of ginger juice, extract or tea. Alternatively, rub a ginger oil on your affected joint or place a warm ginger root compress on the area.
Side Effects
Ginger is relatively safe to take in small doses. In powdered form, it's more likely to cause symptoms such as bloating, gas, heartburn or nausea. However, you're less at risk for these side effects if you take ginger in capsule form. This herb may also interact with other herbs or medications you're taking. If you have a medical condition, such as a bleeding disorder, or you're taking other herbs, consult your doctor before taking ginger to treat joint pain.
References
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Ginger
- "The Green Pharmacy Herbal Handbook"; James A. Duke, Ph.D.; 2000
- "Journal of Natural Products"; Comparative Effects of Two Gingerol-Containing Zingiber Officinale Extracts on Experimental Rheumatoid Arthritis; J.L. Funk et al.; March 2009
- National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine: Ginger
