Ginger, the scientific name for which is Zingiber officinale, is an herb indigenous to tropical regions. The portion of the plant often used in foods and supplements is the underground stem that has a potent aroma and flavor. Ginger is often used as a natural treatment for digestive-related problems, such as those experienced during the intestinal disease colitis..
Colitis Symptoms
Colitis, sometimes called ulcerative colitis, causes inflammation and sores to throughout most of the intestines. The tissue damage caused by colitis can cause weight loss, excessive tiredness, loss of appetite and bleeding from the rectum. Other symptoms include cramps in the abdomen, diarrhea and nausea. Because ginger is often used to lessen these symptoms, this herb may help reduce colitis symptoms. However, other medical treatment would be necessary to treat the underlying cause of the colitis.
Scientific Evidence
Even though ginger has been used as a natural remedy for digestive problems especially in Asian medicine, little scientific evidence exists at time o publication supporting its effectiveness in reducing the symptoms associated with colitis. However, ginger does seem effective in reducing nausea and vomiting related to pregnancy, and this digestive calming effect may also help with the nausea, and perhaps other symptoms, associated with colitis.
Dose
The dose of ginger recommended by University of Maryland Medical Center for gastrointestinal symptoms, such as nausea and indigestion, is between 2 and 4 g of fresh ginger root daily. This amount of fresh root is equivalent to 0.25 to 1.0 g of powdered ginger root. The daily dose of ginger should be separated into several individual doses taken at different times of the day. For example, the recommended dose to prevent vomiting is 1 g of powdered ginger root taken four times each day, which is 4 g total.
Considerations
Taking ginger is generally considered safe, even for pregnant woman. However, University of Maryland Medical Center advises that you do not take more than 4 g of ginger in one day. Ginger may cause some mild side effects, such as heartburn, belching and an upset stomach. Taking ginger in capsules rather than in the fresh or powder form seems to prevent these side effects. Ginger may alter the effectiveness of some medications, and talking with your doctor before beginning a ginger regimen will help avoid these complications.
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