An ancient remedy used in Asian, Indian and Arabic traditional medicine, ginger is a thick, beige-colored, knotted rhizome, or underground stem. Ginger root has been used to treat a variety of conditions, such as upset stomach, diarrhea, nausea, colic, motion sickness and morning sickness, and is commonly used as a flavoring agent for foods and drinks, including ginger ale and ginger snaps.
Effectiveness
While ginger root may possibly be effective for treating conditions such as nausea and vomiting after surgery, dizziness and morning sickness, there is insufficient evidence to suggest that ginger root is effective in relieving symptoms of upper respiratory tract infections, bronchitis, the flu or colds, including coughs. According to the National Institutes of Health's MedlinePlus, more research is needed to determine the effectiveness of ginger root for treating those conditions in which symptoms include coughs.
Recommended Dosages
While the effectiveness of using ginger root for coughs is currently unknown, specifications for recommended dosages do exist. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, for symptoms of colds and flu, shred 2 tbsp. of fresh ginger root and steep in hot water two to three times a day. You may also inhale the vapors of a mixture of hot water and freshly sliced ginger root to help relieve flu or cold symptoms.
Potential Drug Interactions
Talk with your doctor and check any medications you are currently taking before deciding to use ginger root as a cough remedy. Ginger may potentially slow your blood's ability to clot and should not be used in combination with anti-coagulant medications, such as warfarin and phenprocoumon. Using a combination of ginger root and these medications may increase your risk of bleeding and bruising. Ginger root may also decrease blood sugar levels and blood pressure levels. Use ginger root with caution if you are on medications for diabetes or high blood pressure.
Additional Warnings
Before beginning any herbal treatment, talk with your doctor. Mild side effects of ginger root can include general stomach discomfort, heartburn and diarrhea, while topical use of ginger root may cause skin irritation. While ginger root may help prevent morning sickness during pregnancy, there is controversy over the safety of pregnant women using the root. According to MedlinePlus, talk with your doctor about the risks of ginger during pregnancy to determine whether it is right for you. Also, exercise caution with the use of ginger root while breastfeeding, as ginger root should not be used by children under the age of two. Do not use ginger root for your cough if you have a heart condition, as the root may cause heart conditions to worsen.
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