Ginger, orZingiber officinale(Z. officinale), is an herb native to Asia.
It has been used in traditional Chinese, Indian, and Japanese medicines.
It is also commonly used in cooking as a seasoning in foods and beverages, such as ginger tea.
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As a result, some supplement products may not contain the ingredients listed on the label.
Whenchoosing a supplement, look for products independently tested or certified by organizations such asNSF,U.S.
But the health benefits of ginger have also been explored.
While more, extensive research is necessary regarding effectiveness, people use ginger to treat various health conditions.
Research is most robust for relieving symptoms ofnausea, vomiting, andmenstrual periodcramps.
Nausea and Vomiting in Pregnancy
Many pregnant people experiencenausea and vomiting in pregnancy(NVP).
However, a small number of pregnant people experience a more severe form calledhyperemesis gravidarum.
This persistent and excessive nausea and vomiting can lead todehydrationand weight loss.
Ginger was also as effective as dimenhydrinate, and its effects aren’t different fromReglan (metoclopramide).
A 2022 study investigated the use of a ginger herbal drink to treat hyperemesis gravidarum.
Researchers gathered a group of 96 women in their first trimester of pregnancy.
The women’s symptoms were tracked for seven days.
Roughly 80% of people on chemo will experience nausea and vomiting.
The study authors called for more research.
However, another 2022 review investigated the use of ginger to alleviate CINV, specifically in breast cancer patients.
Study authors found that ginger may be helpful in lowering both acute and delayed CINV in breast cancer patients.
They added that since no side effects were seen, ginger is believed to be safe.
Ginger was also effective when combined with exercise.
But the results weren’t conclusive when compared to placebo.
However, the results of a 2021 research review that included 638 studies were not as optimistic.
The study authors found that ginger provided no significant benefits in reducing menstrual period cramps.
Future research with higher-quality, larger studies is necessary.
Other Potential Benefits
The purported benefits of ginger are widely touted.
No supplement is intended to treat, cure, or prevent disease.
Due to its popularity, ginger is available in a variety of forms.
Fresh Ginger
You’ll find fresh ginger in the produce section of most supermarkets.
It is generally grown in tropical climates, but it is found year-round in most stores.
To use fresh ginger at home, you’ll need to remove its outer skin.
Most people do this by using the side of a spoon and scraping the exterior of the root.
Ginger can be grated, chopped, or sliced to use in recipes.
People often use ginger in curries, soups, sauces, or in stir fry dishes.
you might also make ginger tea with fresh ginger.
To make ginger tea, take a 1-inch section of ginger and cut it into thin slices.
Place it in a small pot with one cup of water and bring to a boil.
Simmer for about five minutes, then remove the slices and pour into your tea cup.
Serve with a slice of lemon or orange.
Ginger Powder
Ginger powder is made from dried or ground ginger root.
You will find it in the spice aisle of your local grocery store.
Powdered ginger or ground ginger is the most common form of ginger.
Ginger powder is generally preferred over fresh ginger for baked goods like cookies and cakes.
Fresh ginger is hard to incorporate into ingredients, while powdered ginger blends well.
you’ve got the option to use also ginger powder to add flavor to beverages.
Add it to tea or sprinkle it on top of your cappuccino.
Ginger Supplements
There is no shortage of ginger supplements on the market.
You’ll find it in a variety of forms, such as pills, gummies, or capsules.
You’ll also see ginger combined with other herbs or ingredients, such as turmeric.
Similar Supplements
Ginger has potential uses for helping with nausea and vomiting in pregnancy or during chemotherapy.
Another potential use of ginger is relieving menstrual period cramps.
How to Buy Fresh Ginger
Ginger is widely available in most grocery stores.
You’ll find fresh ginger in the produce section, often near other roots like turnips or rutabagas.
Each ginger “hand” is about the side of a small potato but can be slightly larger.
The root is light brown on the outside with a yellowish inside.
To buy ginger, look for shiny skin and a firm texture.
It should feel heavy for its size.
have a go at avoid ginger that has blemishes or wrinkly skin.
At home, store ginger on your countertop if you plan to use it within a few days.
If not, store it in the refrigerator in a sealed airtight bag.
The crisper section is generally the best place to keep it.
A medical professional can ensure you’re giving ginger a fair trial at appropriate doses.
As with many medications and natural products, side effects are possible with ginger.
Ginger is easy to add to foods and beverages.
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