According to the National Institute of Mental Health, 6.7 percent of American adults suffer from a depressive disorder, 2.7 percent suffer from a panic disorder and 3.5 percent suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder. These are just a few of the mental health disorders that are treated with the drug Zoloft. In the United States, the use of complementary medicine is becoming increasingly popular. According to the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine, 38 percent of American adults are now using complementary medicine, which includes the use of herbs, such as ginger, to treat a variety of health conditions. While ginger has not shown any side effects when taken with Zoloft, it is important to discuss any alternative medications or supplements with your physician.
Ginger Root
Ginger is an herb where the rhizome, or root, is utilized as a seasoning in cooking or for its medicinal properties. It is often used to treat stomach ailments, such as morning sickness, colic, upset stomach, and the nausea and vomiting associated with chemotherapy treatment. According to MedlinePlus, the chemicals found in ginger work primarily in the stomach and intestines to reduce nausea and inflammation, but they may also work in the brain and nervous system.
Zoloft
Zoloft is the brand-name of the drug sertraline. It is used to treat depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder, panic attacks, social anxiety disorder and post-traumatic stress disorder. It belongs to a class of antidepressants known as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, or SSRIs, which work by increasing the level of serotonin in the brain. Serotonin is a natural substance found in the brain that is essential in maintaining mental balance.
Benefits
Zoloft is known to cause a variety of side effects for which the use of ginger root can be beneficial. Some of those side effects include nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, dizziness and a loss of appetite. According to MedlinePlus, ginger has shown to be beneficial in the treatment of these conditions. You should consult with your physician regarding the use of ginger to aid in these side effects.
Considerations
While the use and consumption of ginger root is safe with Zoloft and safe under most conditions, there are considerations that you need to make. Ginger can act as a natural blood thinner, so if you are taking medications to reduce the level of blood clotting, such as Coumadin, you should talk with your doctor before adding ginger to your diet, as it can increase your risk of bleeding and bruising. If you are diabetic, because ginger can reduce your blood sugar levels, discuss its use with your doctor.
References
- National Institute of Mental Health; Major Depressive Disorder Among Adults; July 2010
- National Institute of Mental Health; Panic Disorder Among Adults; July 2010
- National Institute of Mental Health; Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder Among Adults; July 2010
- National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine; The Use of Complementary and Alternative Medicine in the United States; December 2008
- MedlinePlus; Ginger; April 2011
- MedlinePlus; Sertraline; March 2009
Member Comments