We Know: The Facts on Ginger and Ginger Supplements

What is ginger?

The Chinese, Japanese, and Indian cultures have cultivated ginger root and stems for medicinal purposes since the 1500s. Ginger root continues to find usefulness in relieving nausea and vomiting and a number of other ailments. It is also a heavily used spice in cooking. Ginger root comes from the rhizome of the plant Zingiber offinale.

How is ginger used medicinally?

Individuals use ginger orally, topically, intramuscularly, and in food. Ginger roots and extracts are used to produce tablets, capsules, liquids, teas, and tinctures. Ginger is used to treat the following conditions:

  • Prevent nausea and vomiting in early pregnancy and post-operatively
  • Flatulence
  • Diarrhea
  • Increase urination
  • Get rid of indigestion
  • Rheumatoid arthritis

Scientific research studies have found support for the use of ginger in relieving nausea and vomiting.

How much ginger is needed to treat these various ailments?

Generally, 1 to 4 milligrams of ginger per day is enough to treat different ailments. Only 1 to 2 milligrams is needed to relieve nausea and vomiting.

What precautions are necessary when taking ginger or ginger supplements?

Individuals using ginger as a supplement should observe the following precautions if they are diagnosed with any of the following conditions:

  • Avoid using ginger with blood thinning medications. Ginger has the tendency to thin blood.
  • Individuals should seek medical advice if they are taking other herbal supplements.
  • Avoid ginger if taking H-2 blockers or proton pump inhibitors.
  • Avoid ginger if taking blood pressure medications.
  • Ginger may lower blood sugar levels; individuals taking insulin should not use ginger.

What are the common side effects from taking ginger supplements?

Side effects associated with ginger supplementation include heartburn, dermatitis, and depression. Ginger also increases the amount of calcium in the body, potentially causing abnormal heart rates leading to cardiac arrhythmia.



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