Ginger, or ginger root, is a knotty beige rhizome used for medicinal purposes in America for centuries. Ginger is available in extracts, powder, oils, capsules and raw. It can be taken as a tea or used as a spice. The standardized dosage for ginger is 75 mg to 2,000 mg divided throughout the day with food. However, dosage also depends on the ailment, and your physician should be consulted.
Digestive Aid
The active ingredients in ginger, its essential oils and the phenol compounds gingerols and shogaols, may be helpful in preventing motion sickness, morning sickness, nausea during chemotherapy and nausea and vomiting after surgery. For morning sickness, the recommended dosage is 1,000 mg divided over four doses for no more than four days, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. For nausea or indigestion, take 2,000 mg to 4,000 mg of fresh root daily. To prevent vomiting, take 1,000 mg of powdered ginger four times per day. Before using any herb, check with your doctor.
Anti-Inflammatory
Ginger possesses anti-inflammatory properties that may help reduce swelling and pain. Traditional doctors recommend ginger to treat arthritis and ulcerative colitis. To relieve arthritic discomfort, 2,000 mg to 4,000 mg may be taken daily. Ginger is also used as a poultice and placed on sore areas to increase circulation. Ginger oil may also be rubbed into sore joints.
Respiratory Aid
The symptoms of asthma, bronchitis, flu, sore throats and colds may be relieved by ginger, although research is not conclusive. For respiratory ailments, adults may drink 2 tbsp. of fresh grated ginger steeped in hot water two to three times a day. This dose is based on a 150 lb. adult. A drop of ginger oil in a mister may also be inhaled. Herbs should not replace conventional treatment, and a doctor should be consulted. Children under 2 years of age should not be given ginger.
Caution
Taking ginger, or any herb, may produce adverse reactions or interactions with other herbs or medications. Although rare, side effects of ginger may include heartburn, sore mouth, diarrhea, belching and upset stomach. You should not take ginger if you are going to have an operation, if you have gallstones or are taking blood thinners. Consult your doctor before using ginger or any other herb.
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