The gnarled root of the ginger plant has a long history of use in treating cold symptoms, dating back to Asian and Indian medicines as long as 2,000 years ago. Although ginger is an ingredient in some herbal cough lozenges and syrups, there is no scientific evidence that this aromatic herb will ease coughing directly, although it may be soothing for those suffering from cold and flu symptoms. See your doctor about a cough that persists, one that is painful, or if you have additional symptoms.
Ginger's Components and Properties
Ginger's active components include gingerols, gingerdiols, and shogaols, according to the "PDR for Herbal Medicines." Ginger is anti-emetic, meaning it reduces nausea. The herb may also be anti-inflammatory and may boost the immune system, although clinical studies on humans are necessary to confirm those properties.
Potential Benefits for Coughs
For coughs triggered by sinus drainage, congestion and inflammation associated with the common cold or the flu, ginger may reduce overall virus symptoms, which may in turn reduce coughing. The "Gale Encyclopedia of Alternative Medicine," suggests drinking ginger tea to reduce coughs due to throat congestion.
Products/Dosage
Prepare a ginger tea from fresh or powdered ginger. Pour 1 cup of boiling water over 2 tsp. of freshly grated ginger root or 1 tsp. of dried ginger powder and steep for 10 minutes. Sip the tea while warm or hot for the best results. Ginger is also available in herbal remedies designed to reduce cold and flu symptoms, including lozenges, capsules, syrups and tinctures.
Considerations
You may find ginger products to be soothing, but the FDA does not oversee the production of herbal remedies so there is no assurance of efficiency, safety or quality. Do not exceed dosage instructions of the package, unless directed to do so by a doctor. While ginger is safe for most, the herb is linked to a risk of miscarriage, so do not use ginger therapeutically if you're pregnant.
Ginger may interfere with the absorption of some vitamins and minerals and it may interfere with medications you're already taking, including blood-thinners, digoxin and sulfa drugs. A cough that lasts may be a symptom of a more serious disorder. Talk to your doctor about your symptoms and follow his advice when using ginger to treat coughing.
References
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Ginger
- "PDR for Herbal Medicines, 2nd Edition"; Joerg Gruenwald, PhD, 2000
- "Gale Encyclopedia of Alternative Medicine, Volume 2"; Jacqueline L. Longe; 2005
