What is ginger?

Ginger is a plant that is native to tropical Asia and is commonly used as a spice and herbal medicine. Ginger can be found in fresh form or in dried, powdered form. It is also commonly used as an ingredient in cooking-particularly in Asian and Indian cuisine.

How does it work?

Ginger contains active compounds that have anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and pain-relieving properties. These properties help to reduce nausea, reduce inflammation and pain, and improve digestive function.

What are its active ingredients?

Gingerols, shogaols, and zingerone are active ingredients. These compounds are responsible for its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and pain-relieving properties.

What forms does it come in?

• Fresh root
• Dried powder
• Capsules
• Oil
• Component in food and beverages

When was it first used for medicinal purposes?

Ginger has been used for medicinal purposes for thousands of years in traditional Chinese, Ayurvedic, and Persian medicine.

What if I have an imbalance or deficiency?

There is no known deficiency or imbalance related to ginger consumption.

What can it help with?

• Nausea and vomiting, especially during pregnancy
• Nausea caused by chemotherapy
• Osteoarthritis pain
• Rheumatoid arthritis
• Migraine headaches
• Menstrual pain
• Upper respiratory tract infections
• Cardiovascular disease
• Chronic indigestion
• Diarrhea
• Coughing

What can it help prevent?

• Alzheimer's disease
• Cancer
• Heart disease
• High blood pressure
• High cholesterol
• Infections
• Metabolic syndrome
• Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease
• Type 2 diabetes
• Age-related cognitive decline
• Cardiovascular disease
• Inflammation
• Oxidative stress

Which foods are rich in it?

• Fresh root ginger
• Ginger Tea: A popular beverage made by steeping ginger root in hot water, often with honey and lemon.
• Gingerbread: A sweet baked good that typically includes ginger along with other spices like cinnamon and cloves.
• Ginger Ale/Ginger Beer: Carbonated soft drinks flavored primarily with ginger and sugar. Ginger beer tends to be stronger and spicier than ginger ale.
• Stir-Fried Dishes: Many Asian cuisines use ginger as a key ingredient in stir-fries, often combined with garlic and soy sauce.
• Ginger Soup: In various cultures, ginger is used to make spicy, aromatic soups, sometimes with chicken or vegetables.
• Ginger Marinades and Sauces: Ginger is used in marinades and sauces to add a spicy, fresh flavor to meats and vegetables.
• Pickled Ginger: Often served with sushi, this is ginger that has been thinly sliced and pickled in a mixture of sugar and vinegar.
• Ginger Candy: Candied ginger is a sweet treat where ginger slices are cooked in sugar syrup and coated in granulated sugar.
• Ginger Jam or Preserve: Ginger can be made into a jam or preserve, often with citrus fruits to balance the spice.
• Ginger chews
• Ginger snaps

What are possible side effects?

Ginger is generally well tolerated when taken in moderate amounts. Some people may experience mild side effects such as:

• Stomach discomfort
• Diarrhea
• Heartburn

What’s the recommended daily dose?

The recommended daily dose of ginger for adults is 4-5 grams per day.

How long does it take to work?

The effects of ginger can vary and depend on the condition being treated, but generally, improvement can be seen within a few days to a few weeks.

What time of day is best to take it?

Ginger can be taken at any time of day, but it is best to take it with meals to prevent stomach discomfort.

Should I take it with food?

It is best to take ginger with food to prevent stomach discomfort.