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What are the Health-Promoting Properties of Ginger?

S. N. Smith
S. N. Smith

Ginger (Zingiber officinale) has been prized for centuries for its benefits to human health and well-being. It originated in Asia, and was used widely as both a culinary and a medicinal herb in not only Asian but Indian and Arabic traditions as well. The Zingiber officinale variety grows approximately 2 to 3 feet (0.6 to 0.9 meter) tall, has sword-like leaves and yellowish green flowers, with leaves growing from a cane. The aromatic rhizome is the part that is used for both medicinal and culinary applications. Although this is commonly referred to as ginger-root, it is a misnomer, as it is actually a form of plump underground stem, not a true root. The rhizome may be used fresh, cooked in food or steeped as a tea. Its volatile oils (e.g., gingerol and shogaol) and compounds may be distilled; or it may be dried and ground and used in capsules or other powdered forms.

In the Asian medicine tradition, ginger is considered to possess “hot” or “warming” attributes. It is favored as a remedy for digestive ailments ranging from upset stomach to diarrhea to abdominal bloating due to excessive gas; said to palliate nausea; and viewed as an all-around digestive aid. It is therefore frequently served as a condiment with greasy or fatty foods. Additionally, it is believed that ginger is beneficial in the treatment of heart, circulatory, and menstrual problems, and is used to treat migraine headaches and arthritis as well.

Ginger might be used to treat digestive troubles and nausea.
Ginger might be used to treat digestive troubles and nausea.

In the Ayurvedic tradition, ginger is highly regarded as having many diverse healing properties, and is used prominently in treating ailments of the digestive tract. It is also appreciated for its value as a stimulant, enhancing the flow of saliva, for example, making it a beneficial treatment of maladies of the throat, such as laryngitis and sore throat.

Ginger has long been recognized for its ability to ease nausea.
Ginger has long been recognized for its ability to ease nausea.

Modern conventional medicine is beginning to explore the ways that ginger can be used medicinally to benefit patients suffering from a range of illnesses. For example, there are a number of studies under way investigating its role as an anti-emetic and its potential for use in helping alleviate the symptoms of nausea and vomiting in patients undergoing chemotherapy. It may also reduce post-surgical nausea and vomiting, motion sickness, and prenatal morning sickness. Other studies show possible support for ginger’s benefits in helping to ease the joint paint of various inflammatory conditions. More research and clinical trials will be necessary to obtain conclusive evidence.

Ginger is a rhizome.
Ginger is a rhizome.

Ginger is available in capsules, tablets, liquid extracts and tinctures, and powders, as well as in teas, cookies such as ginger snaps, and candies. The rhizome may also be used fresh. Although the use of small amounts of fresh ginger — as in quantities consumed in ordinary culinary use — is considered to be generally safe, dried, powdered, and extracted forms are considerably stronger and require more careful dosing. People suffering from gallstones or gallbladder disease should avoid ginger. It may interact with certain medicines used to treat cancer, proton pump inhibitors, and blood thinners. Pregnant women may need to avoid consuming the rhizome in quantity. In any of these cases, a physician should be consulted before use.

Pickled ginger is served with sushi and is a digestive aid.
Pickled ginger is served with sushi and is a digestive aid.

It should be noted that all herbs contain substances that may cause undesirable side effects or interact with medications. Anyone interested in using ginger medicinally should do so only with a physician’s consent and under the supervision of a knowledgeable and reputable practitioner of homeopathic medicine.

Discussion Comments

anon333608

Ginger essential oil works wonders on my arthritic joints!!

SarahSon

I used to think that the doctors were only interested in the type of medications you were taking - such as anything prescribed by a doctor or over the counter.

Now I realize they also need to know what kind of supplements and herbal remedies you use. There are many people who have good results from using ginger for health benefits, but it can also react to other medications you may be taking even if it is a natural product.

anon129529

I don't think it should be taken immediately before an operation. it can make you bleed too much.

somerset

Ginger stimulates the circulatory system, and it acts as a general stimulant. A ginger compress can be used to bring heat to a specific area of the body.

somerset

Ginger helps break down protein with the help of the zingibain enzyme; this is how it promotes healthy digestion.

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    • Ginger might be used to treat digestive troubles and nausea.
      By: Adam Gregor
      Ginger might be used to treat digestive troubles and nausea.
    • Ginger has long been recognized for its ability to ease nausea.
      By: tashka2000
      Ginger has long been recognized for its ability to ease nausea.
    • Ginger is a rhizome.
      By: zigzagmtart
      Ginger is a rhizome.
    • Pickled ginger is served with sushi and is a digestive aid.
      By: Fotoluminate LLC
      Pickled ginger is served with sushi and is a digestive aid.
    • Ginger tea is used to soothe sore throats, as well as treat stomach upset.
      By: praisaeng
      Ginger tea is used to soothe sore throats, as well as treat stomach upset.
    • Giner may alleviate vomiting in chemotherapy patients.
      By: igor
      Giner may alleviate vomiting in chemotherapy patients.