GENERAL DESCRIPTION:
Ginger grows in India, China, Mexico, and
several other countries. The medical part of the plant is the underground stem, which is called
the rhizome. Zesty flavor notwithstanding, ginger is often
taken for its calming effects on a
churning stomach. It is also taken
to treat morning sickness, seasickness, and motion sickness.
In some people it also can help reduce a fever or lessen the
symptoms of a cold. Ginger contains an essential
oil and other compounds (including gingerol and shogaol) that apparently prevent nausea through effects on the stomach and gastrointestinal system rather than through the nervous system.
Doctors recently have tested ginger’s ability to prevent
nausea and vomiting after surgery and during
chemotherapy treatment. One recent study found that
ginger was better than a placebo and as effective
as the conventional anti-emetic drug metoclopramide for preventing nausea after gynecological surgery.
ROLE FOR ANTI-AGING:
A study carried out in Israel in 2000 found
that ginger extract significantly reduced the development of atherosclerotic lesions and lowered
LDL-cholesterol levels in mice. Components of ginger,
called flavonoids also have antioxidant potential. Research
published in 2001 suggests that highly purified ginger extracts may be useful for alleviating
the pain caused by osteoarthritis (OA) of the knee. The study of 247 patients with OA
of the knee revealed that the extract lessened the pain experienced by sufferers when walking or
standing.
THERAPEUTIC DAILY AMOUNT:
Ginger comes in a variety of forms including
fresh, dried, tablets, capsules, tinctures, extracts, syrups and teas; follow dosage directions
on labels. You can also buy ginger essential oil, which can
be diffused into the air for inhalation, or diluted in a
vegetable oil for inhalation or topical application (or
massage).
MAXIMUM SAFE LEVEL: Not established
SIDE EFFECTS/CONTRAINDICATIONS:
Ginger has a long history of being taken in
relatively large doses (up to several grams) without causing any toxicity or side effects. Many
pregnant women use it to help control morning sickness,
however there have been no studies in which women have taken
large doses of ginger during pregnancy. Studies carried out in Europe found that ginger may enhance
absorption of sulphaguanidine. In addition, excessive
consumption of ginger (dosage not stated) may interfere with
cardiac, anti-diabetic, or anticoagulant therapy.
Do not ingest the essential oil and be sure to dilute it before applying to your skin.
