Ginger root, a rhizome of the Zingiber officinale plant, is a widely used spice and traditional medicine. It offers potential benefits for nausea reduction (including pregnancy-related and chemotherap...
Ginger root, a rhizome of the Zingiber officinale plant, is a widely used spice and traditional medicine. It offers potential benefits for nausea reduction (including pregnancy-related and chemotherapy-induced), inflammation management, pain relief, and blood sugar regulation. Its efficacy is largely attributed to its bioactive compounds like gingerols. Common side effects are usually mild gastrointestinal issues, but caution is advised for individuals on blood thinners due to the increased risk of bleeding. Further research is ongoing to fully understand its benefits and mechanisms of action.
Key Information
Inside Body Harmful Score
Common Dosage
1-3 grams daily of fresh ginger or 250mg-1g of dried powder, up to 4 times daily. For motion sickness, 1 gram may be taken 30 minutes before travel.
Source Type
natural
Production Process
Ginger root is harvested from the Zingiber officinale plant. The rhizome is typically cleaned, dried, and then processed into various forms such as powders, extracts, and oils.
Use Type
Inside BodyPotential Benefits
Digestion is the process of breaking down food for nutrient absorption and waste elimination, essential for energy, immunity, and overall gut health. Optimal digestion reduces discomfort and improves well-being.
This benefit focuses on reducing the feeling of nausea, thereby alleviating discomfort and enhancing overall well-being. It targets various underlying causes, including motion sickness and gastrointestinal issues.
Reduces inflammation throughout the body, addressing the root cause of many diseases. Modulates inflammatory pathways and promotes tissue healing.
Magnesium regulates blood sugar by improving insulin sensitivity and glucose metabolism. Supplementation can improve glycemic control, especially in those with deficiencies or insulin resistance.
Reduces inflammation by inhibiting inflammatory pathways and the production of inflammatory molecules, thereby alleviating symptoms and protecting against tissue damage. This benefit helps modulate inflammatory responses and promote resolution.
Ginger reduces pain by inhibiting prostaglandin production, offering relief from conditions like osteoarthritis, menstrual cramps, and muscle soreness. It boasts anti-inflammatory benefits.
Possible Side Effects
Heartburn is a burning pain in the chest caused by stomach acid reflux into the esophagus. It can be triggered by various factors, including diet, lifestyle, and certain medications.
Allergic reactions are hypersensitivity responses to allergens, ranging from mild skin irritation to life-threatening anaphylaxis. Symptoms vary widely and are caused by an immune response.
Increased bleeding risk occurs due to interference with blood clotting, potentially leading to prolonged bleeding, easy bruising, or internal bleeding. This risk is amplified by anticoagulant/antiplatelet medications or pre-existing bleeding disorders.
Upset stomach, or dyspepsia, involves upper abdominal discomfort with symptoms like nausea, bloating, and heartburn. It can stem from various factors and may require investigation if persistent.
Mild gastrointestinal discomfort involves low severity nausea, stomach upset, or diarrhea. Symptoms are typically transient and self-limiting.
Scientific Evidence
Ernst E, Pittler MH. Efficacy of ginger for nausea and vomiting: a systematic review of randomized clinical trials. Br J Anaesth. 2000 Mar;84(3):367-71. Daily JW, Zhang X, Song Z, Barringer S. Efficacy of ginger for alleviating the symptoms of primary dysmenorrhea: a meta-analysis of randomized clinical trials. Pain Med. 2015 Dec;16(12):2243-55. Shidfar F, Keshavarz A, Akhlaghi M, et al. The effect of ginger (Zingiber officinale) on glycemic markers in patients with type 2 diabetes. J Complement Integr Med. 2015 Sep;12(3):165-71.
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