Ginger
Nature's nausea remedy. Ginger (Zingiber officinale) has been used medicinally for thousands of years. Its active compounds— gingerols and shogaols—provide anti-nausea, anti-inflammatory, and digestive benefits. It works on serotonin receptors in the gut, modulates prostaglandins, and has been shown effective for pregnancy nausea, motion sickness, and chemotherapy-induced nausea.
Active Compounds
Gingerols
Main active compounds in fresh ginger. 6-gingerol most abundant. Anti-inflammatory, antioxidant.
Shogaols
Formed when ginger is dried or cooked. More potent than gingerols. Concentrated in dried ginger.
Zingerone
Present in cooked/dried ginger. Antidiarrheal. Less pungent flavor.
Paradols
Minor constituents. Anticancer research. Metabolite of shogaols.
Therapeutic Benefits
Anti-Nausea
Best studied use. Works on 5HT3 and NK1 receptors. Pregnancy, chemo, motion sickness.
Anti-Inflammatory
Inhibits COX and LOX. Reduces prostaglandins. Comparable to NSAIDs in some studies.
Digestive Aid
Speeds gastric emptying. Reduces bloating. Carminative properties.
Pain Relief
Muscle soreness, menstrual pain, arthritis. Takes a few days to work.
Blood Sugar
Some evidence for lowering fasting glucose. Improves insulin sensitivity.
Antimicrobial
Activity against some bacteria, viruses. Traditional use for colds.
How to Use Ginger
Fresh Root
Grate into food, make tea. 1-2 inches per day. Highest gingerol content.
Dried/Powder
500mg-2g per day. More shogaols. Convenient for consistent dosing.
Capsules
Standardized extracts available. 250-500mg 2-4x daily. Good for nausea prevention.
Ginger Tea
Steep fresh slices 10-15 min. Add honey, lemon. Soothing for upset stomach.
Crystallized
Candied ginger. Convenient travel remedy. Watch sugar content.
Ginger Ale
Most contain little real ginger. Check ingredients. Make your own for best effect.
Cautions
Blood Thinning
High doses may affect clotting. Caution with anticoagulants. Stop before surgery.
Gallstones
Stimulates bile flow. May cause pain if stones present. Use cautiously.
High Doses
Over 5g/day may cause heartburn, GI upset. Moderation is key.
Drug Interactions
May interact with diabetes meds, BP meds. Generally mild but be aware.