The University of Iowa Hospitals & Clinics states the basic definition of vertigo is a sensation of motion while standing still or a prevalent sensation of loosing your balance. The symptoms of this ailment are similar to any symptom of inner ear malfunctions, which include nausea, loss of balance and vomiting. The most common treatments for vertigo include prescription medications, physical therapy or surgery. Like many ailments, alternative medicine practitioners believe vertigo may be eased through the ingestion of herbs, such as ginger.
Ginger's Active Compounds
The main active compounds found within ginger root include shogaols, gingerols and volatile oils. Traditionally, ginger is utilized to treat and prevent vomiting and nausea associated with chemotherapy, motion sickness and pregnancy. However, other uses outlined by MedlinePlus include bronchitis, respiratory tract infections as well as post-surgery vomiting and nausea.
Vertigo and Ginger
Along with helping ease the discomfort and pain of nausea and vomiting, ginger root is touted as possibly effective for dizziness, according to MedlinePlus. The active compounds within ginger may also deter or reduce the sensation of nausea associated with vertigo. The U.S. National Library of Medicine outlines a controlled placebo study, where eight volunteers were given either ginger or a placebo. The study found those given ginger experienced a reduction in vertigo and its symptoms than did the placebo group. Another study outlined by Life Extension states those who took ginger experienced a shorter recovery time from vertigo symptoms, including nausea, and the onset of such symptoms was delayed when compared to those who did not consume ginger. While further studies are needed to determine the true effectiveness of ginger on vertigo symptoms, initial research suggests ginger may help reduce the duration of vertigo and help delay the onset of symptoms.
Dosage Recommendations
The University of Maryland Medical Center states users should consume two to four grams of fresh ginger root per day, or up to 2,000 mg of standardized ginger root extract, to deter nausea and help prevent vertigo. Ginger is available in powdered, fresh root, liquid extract and capsule form. While the dosage may be smaller than previously stated, never consume more than four grams of ginger per 24-hour period. Discuss dosage recommendations with your physician to determine the ideal amount for your vertigo symptoms.
Warnings
While ginger is considered likely safe for the general public by MedlinePlus, this herb must be carefully consumed to prevent undesirable side effects. The most common side effects of ginger supplementation include diarrhea, heartburn and generalized gastrointestinal discomfort. Those who are pregnant or breastfeeding should consult their doctor prior to ginger supplementation, as well as those who are taking medications. Life Extension warns that consuming more than six grams of ginger per day may cause stomach lining damage or stomach ulcers. Since ginger is known to increase bile production, those with gallstones or bile duct obstructions should not consume ginger.
References
- University of Iowa Hospitals & Clinics; Vertigo: Frequently Asked Questions; Jay Rubinstein, MD; March 2004
- University Maryland Medical Center; Ginger; Steven D. Ehrlich, NMD; November 2008
- MedlinePlus; Ginger; April 2011
- Life Extension: Vertigo
- U.S. National Library of Medicine; Vertigo-Reducing Effect of Ginger Root...; A Grontved, E. Hentzer
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