Ginger may be known for treating stomach problems and fighting nausea, but it can also help with respiratory ailments, including allergies. Native to Asia, this aromatic, warming herb grows underground and is easy to find fresh in your local supermarket or health food store in powder or candied form, extracts, tinctures, capsules and oil. You can use this fresh ginger in your cooking or to make tea, which may help relieve congestion. Check with your physician before using ginger for your nasal allergies.
Medicinal Properties
Ginger root contains volatile oils and phenol compounds, such as gingerols and shogaols, and has anti-emetic, anti-inflammatory, antihistaminic, antmicrobial and antiviral properties. Ginger acts as a natural decongestant and expectorant, thanks to its warming quality that helps treat respiratory disorders including colds, the flu, sinus conditions and allergies. Chinese herbalists use ginger to treat allergy and sinusitis symptoms because it can dilate constricted bronchial tubes to enable freer breathing. Ginger's anti-inflammatory properties can also reduce swelling in mucous membranes.
Background
While the National Institutes of Health rates ginger as more effective to remedy nausea, vomiting, dizziness and motion sickness, evidence is growing for its value as a respiratory aid. The addition of ginger extract to Japanese green tea reduced allergy symptoms from pollen, including runny nose, itchy eyes and sore throat, according to a study published in the December 2007 issue of the journal, "Cytotechnology."
How to Use
Ginger tea with lemon and honey can also ease congestion. For best results, use fresh ginger and a grater or a garlic press. Shred 2 tbsps. fresh ginger and add hot water. Steep for a few minutes and then strain. Squeeze in some fresh lemon juice and, if you desire sweetness, add honey. Another way to use ginger to offset your allergies and clear your breathing is to place a few slices into steaming water for inhaling. You can store fresh ginger in the freezer for up to six months.
Considerations
Check with your physician before using ginger if you are pregnant or breast-feeding, or if you have gallbladder difficulties. Because ginger may lower blood sugar, ask your physician about adjusting diabetes medication. Avoid ginger if you have a heart condition or high blood pressure, or are taking anticoagulant medication, which includes prescriptions and the herbs angelica, clove, danshen, garlic, ginkgo, Panax ginseng, red clover and turmeric. Do not give ginger to children who are less than 2 years old.
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