It might come on slowly, a wave of nausea triggered by travel in a car or a plane, or it might strike as soon as you awaken if you're in the early stages of pregnancy. No matter the cause, an upset stomach is unpleasant and can lead to vomiting. Ginger root, a staple in Asian cuisine, may be beneficial in capsule form for soothing nausea due to indigestion or motion sickness, and may also calm an upset stomach following some surgeries or medical treatments. Check with your health care provider before taking any herbal remedies, and see your doctor if nausea persists.
Ginger Properties
Ginger root is the tuberous rhizome of the Zingiber officinale plant and contains oleoresins, which are a blend of many resins and essential oils. Sesquiterpene hydrocarbons are thought to be the active oleoresins in ginger root, which give it a strong distinctive aroma and the potential ability to sooth nausea, according to naturopath Lesley Braun and professor Marc Cohen, authors of "Herbs & Natural Supplements: An Evidence-Based Guide."
Effect on Upset Stomach
Ginger root capsules are potentially anti-emetic, meaning they have the ability to reduce nausea and vomiting, per Braun and Cohen, in some cases providing immediate relief. While the exact process by which ginger root eases an upset stomach is unclear, the herb may inhibit serotonin-induced spasms of the stomach and intestines. Ginger may also block prostaglandins that trigger nausea and gastrointestinal upset.
Dosages
For upset stomach, adults may take two 0.5 g ginger capsules every four hours, up to three times per day, recommends the University of Maryland Medical Center. Braun and Cohen warn against giving ginger to children younger than six years; call your doctor for dosage advice before giving ginger root capsules to older children. In addition to capsules, ginger is available fresh in your grocer's produce section and as a powdered spice.
Warnings
While ginger root is frequently taken to ease morning sickness, and is likely safe according to Braun and Cohen, talk to your doctor before taking ginger root capsules if you are pregnant. People with gallstone disorders, gastric ulcers or chronic acid reflux should not take ginger unless directed to do so by their doctors, and ginger may interfere with medications including blood-thinners. Side effects are rare, but include mouth irritation, diarrhea and heartburn. Your doctor is the best source of advice for treating chronic or severe symptoms of stomach upset.
References
- University of Maryland Medical Center; Ginger; Steven D. Ehrlich, NMD
- "Herbs & Natural Supplements: An Evidence-Based Guide"; Lesley Braun, Ph.D., et al.; 2007
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