Ginger has been used since ancient times for a number of health problems, including nausea. It is often used in aromatherapy for digestive problems. Ginger is used in aromatherapy as an essential oil but you can also use it in herbal form for nausea. Clinical studies vary with regard to the effectiveness of the use of ginger for postoperative nausea. Consult a qualified professional before using ginger in aromatherapy for postoperative nausea.
Ginger Aromatherapy
Ginger, Zingiber officinale, is extracted from the roots of the ginger plant and distilled into an essential oil for use in aromatherapy. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, the most important chemical components of ginger are compounds such as ginerol and shogaol. According to Shirley and Len Price, in “Aromatherapy for Health Professionals,” ginger essential oil is high in sesquiterpenes which are anti-inflammatory, calming, antiseptic and bactericidal.
Ginger for Nausea
Ginger is commonly used as a digestive aid in aromatherapy and is cited for use by several sources for various types of nausea including pregnancy related nausea, motion sickness and postoperative nausea. According to ScienceDirect.com, a study on the effects of using ginger for postoperative nausea showed that a fixed dose of at least 1 g of ginger was more effective than a placebo in preventing postoperative nausea.
However, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center, more research is required to effectively determine the usefulness of ginger as an aid in preventing postoperative nausea. In addition, there is no conclusive record of the effectiveness of ginger in aromatherapy use for postoperative nausea; although the chemical components of ginger essential oil are similar to those in herbal form, there are some variations.
How to Use
Use ginger in aromatherapy in a blend of a carrier oil or lotion, such as jojoba or sweet almond oil; do not use ginger essential oil undiluted on your skin. Rub the lotion or oil over your abdomen area. In addition, you can inhale ginger through an aromatherapy diffuser for immediate relief from nausea. You can also make an infusion of ginger from the root and drink it as a tea.
Cautions
Consult a qualified health professional before using ginger aromatherapy for postoperative nausea. Individual circumstances may differ so it is essential that you take advice on the suitability of the use of ginger for your particular problem. In addition, ginger aromatherapy may interact with some prescribed medications. Do not use ginger essential oil internally for postoperative nausea.
References
- “The Illustrated Encyclopedia of Essential Oils”; Julia Lawless: 1995
- “Aromatherapy An A – Z”; Patricia Davis; 1999
- “Aromatherapy for Health Professionals”; Shirley Price, Len Price: 2002
- ScienceDirect: The Efficiency of Ginger for the Prevention of Postoperative Nausea and Vomiting
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Ginger
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