Ginger
Ginger
Ginger is use as a spice, flavoring agent and a herbal remedy. Ginger has antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties. It helps in managing a variety of diseases such as nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, constipation and indigestion. A combination of Ginger and salt is a good remedy for managing motion sickness.
Ginger tea is useful to enhance your immunity and for managing cold and sore throat[2][7].
Ginger tea is useful to enhance your immunity and for managing cold and sore throat[2][7].
What are the synonyms of Ginger?
Zingiber officinale, Kulekhara, Ada, Adu, Adarakha, Alla, Hasishunti, Inchi, Ardrak, Ale, Adi, Adrak, Injee, Allam, Lakottai, Inji, Allamu, Allam, Katubhadra, shunthi
What is the source of Ginger?
Plant Based
Benefits of Ginger
Modern Science View
Ginger is effective in managing morning sickness, especially during pregnancy. It helps to reduce the severity as well as the episodes of nausea and vomiting during pregnancy. This is due to its antiemetic (effective against vomiting and nausea) property[3][11].
Ayurvedic View
Tip
Chew a piece of Ginger with added rock salt (Sendha namak) to control morning sickness during pregnancy.
Chew a piece of Ginger with added rock salt (Sendha namak) to control morning sickness during pregnancy.
Modern Science View
Ginger is used for the prevention of nausea and vomiting following surgery. This is due to its antiemetic (effective against vomiting and nausea) and carminative (prevent gas formation) properties[3][11].
Ayurvedic View
Ginger is used to control nausea and vomiting. This is because of its Deepan (appetizer), Pachan (digestive) and Rochana (improves taste) properties.
Tip
Chew a piece of Ginger with added rock salt (Sendha namak) to control nausea and vomiting.
Tip
Chew a piece of Ginger with added rock salt (Sendha namak) to control nausea and vomiting.
Modern Science View
Ginger is effective in managing menstrual pain. Ginger has antispasmodic (smooth muscular movement) and analgesic properties. Ginger blocks the calcium channels and prevents the contraction of smooth muscles in the uterus[3][9].
Ayurvedic View
Dysmenorrhea is the pain or cramps during or before a menstrual period. In Ayurveda, this condition is known as Kasht-aartava. According to Ayurveda, Aartava or Menstruation is controlled and governed by Vata dosha. So it is important that in a woman, Vata should be under control to manage dysmenorrhea. Ginger has Vata balancing property and gives relief in dysmenorrhea. It controls aggravated Vata and reduces abdominal pain and cramps during the menstrual cycle.
Tips:
To make Ginger tea.
1. Take 2 inches of fresh Ginger.
2. Crush it roughly with a pestle and mortar.
3. Now take 2 cups of water and add the crushed Ginger to a pan and bring it to a boil.
4. Boil it for 10-20 minutes so that Ginger can impart more flavor.
5. Strain and add sugar-free natural sweetener or honey.
6. Drink this Ginger tea 2-3 times a day to control menstrual pain.
Tips:
To make Ginger tea.
1. Take 2 inches of fresh Ginger.
2. Crush it roughly with a pestle and mortar.
3. Now take 2 cups of water and add the crushed Ginger to a pan and bring it to a boil.
4. Boil it for 10-20 minutes so that Ginger can impart more flavor.
5. Strain and add sugar-free natural sweetener or honey.
6. Drink this Ginger tea 2-3 times a day to control menstrual pain.
Modern Science View
Ginger might be beneficial in managing nausea and vomiting due to chemotherapy. This is due to its antiemetic (effective against vomiting and nausea) and carminative (prevent gas formation) properties. It decreases the risk of gastro-oesophageal reflux (a digestive disorder in which the stomach contents flow backward, up into the esophagus). It also promotes gastric emptying and helps to release trapped gas[3][10].
Ayurvedic View
An increase in weight is due to unhealthy food habits and lifestyle which leads to a weak digestive fire. This increases accumulation of Ama causing an imbalance in meda dhatu and resulting in obesity. Ginger is useful to control obesity as it helps improve metabolism and reduce Ama. This is due to its Deepan (appetizer) and Pachan (digestive) properties. It balances meda dhatu and thus reduces obesity.
Tips:
To make Ginger tea.
1. Take 2 inches of fresh Ginger.
2. Crush it roughly with a pestle and mortar.
3. Now take 2 cups of water and add the crushed Ginger to a pan and bring it to a boil.
4. Boil it for 10-20 minutes so that Ginger can impart more flavor.
5. Strain and add sugar-free natural sweetener or honey.
6. Drink this Ginger tea 2-3 times a day to manage obesity.
Tips:
To make Ginger tea.
1. Take 2 inches of fresh Ginger.
2. Crush it roughly with a pestle and mortar.
3. Now take 2 cups of water and add the crushed Ginger to a pan and bring it to a boil.
4. Boil it for 10-20 minutes so that Ginger can impart more flavor.
5. Strain and add sugar-free natural sweetener or honey.
6. Drink this Ginger tea 2-3 times a day to manage obesity.
Modern Science View
Ginger might be beneficial in managing high cholesterol. It helps to lower cholesterol by converting it into bile acids. It also increases the level of HDL or good cholesterol in the blood[3][9].
Ayurvedic View
High cholesterol is due to an imbalance of Pachak Agni (digestive fire). Impaired digestion at the tissue level produces excess waste products or Ama (toxic remains in the body due to improper digestion). This causes accumulation of bad cholesterol and blockage in the blood vessels. Ginger helps to improve Agni (digestive fire) and reduce Ama. This is due to its Deepan (appetizer) and Pachan (digestive) properties. It also helps to remove blockage from the blood vessels by eliminating toxins and helps to maintain a healthy heart due to its Hrdya (cardiac tonic) nature.
Tips:
To make Ginger tea.
1. Take 2 inches of fresh Ginger.
2. Crush it roughly with a pestle and mortar.
3. Now take 2 cups of water and add the crushed Ginger to a pan and bring it to a boil.
4. Boil it for 10-20 minutes so that Ginger can impart more flavor.
5. Strain and add sugar-free natural sweetener or honey.
6. Drink this Ginger tea 2-3 times a day to control high cholesterol levels.
Tips:
To make Ginger tea.
1. Take 2 inches of fresh Ginger.
2. Crush it roughly with a pestle and mortar.
3. Now take 2 cups of water and add the crushed Ginger to a pan and bring it to a boil.
4. Boil it for 10-20 minutes so that Ginger can impart more flavor.
5. Strain and add sugar-free natural sweetener or honey.
6. Drink this Ginger tea 2-3 times a day to control high cholesterol levels.
Modern Science View
Ginger is effective in managing osteoarthritis. Ginger has anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties. It helps to reduce inflammation and pain in case of osteoarthritis[3][11].
Ayurvedic View
According to Ayurveda, osteoarthritis occurs due to an aggravation of Vata dosha and is known as Sandhivata. It causes pain, swelling and joint mobility. Ginger has Vata balancing property and gives relief from the symptoms of osteoarthritis like pain and swelling in the joints.
Tips:
To make Ginger tea.
1. Take 2 inches of fresh Ginger.
2. Crush it roughly with a pestle and mortar.
3. Now take 2 cups of water and add the crushed Ginger to a pan and bring it to a boil.
4. Boil it for 10-20 minutes so that Ginger can impart more flavor.
5. Strain and add sugar-free natural sweetener or honey.
6. Drink this Ginger tea 2-3 times a day to manage the symptoms of osteoarthritis.
Tips:
To make Ginger tea.
1. Take 2 inches of fresh Ginger.
2. Crush it roughly with a pestle and mortar.
3. Now take 2 cups of water and add the crushed Ginger to a pan and bring it to a boil.
4. Boil it for 10-20 minutes so that Ginger can impart more flavor.
5. Strain and add sugar-free natural sweetener or honey.
6. Drink this Ginger tea 2-3 times a day to manage the symptoms of osteoarthritis.
Modern Science View
Ginger might be beneficial in managing chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. It is associated with the blockage of airflow from the lungs. This results in difficulty in breathing. Ginger has anti-allergic and anti-inflammatory properties. It reduces the inflammation and contraction of the airways[3][11].
Ayurvedic View
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease is a chronic lung disease which causes difficulty in breathing. According to Ayurveda, COPD is due to an imbalance of all the three doshas (mainly Kapha). Regular intake of Ginger helps to reduce symptoms of COPD as it helps balance Kapha and gives strength to the lungs.
Tips:
1. Take 1-2 teaspoon fresh Ginger juice.
2. Add the same quantity of honey.
3. Mix well and have it twice a day to manage the symptoms of COPD.
Tips:
1. Take 1-2 teaspoon fresh Ginger juice.
2. Add the same quantity of honey.
3. Mix well and have it twice a day to manage the symptoms of COPD.
Modern Science View
Ginger might be beneficial in the management of diabetes. Ginger helps to increase the level of insulin and reduces insulin resistance. It helps in better utilization of glucose. Ginger has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. It fights against free radicals and prevents diabetes related complications[3][11].
Ayurvedic View
Diabetes, also known as Madhumeha is due to an aggravation of Vata and impaired digestion. Impaired digestion leads to an accumulation of Ama (toxic remains in the body due to improper digestion) in the pancreatic cells and impairs the function of insulin. Regular intake of Ginger helps to correct impaired digestion and reduces Ama. This is due to its Deepan (appetizer) and Pachan (digestive) properties.
Tips:
To make Ginger tea.
1. Take 2 inches of fresh Ginger.
2. Crush it roughly with a pestle and mortar.
3. Now take 2 cups of water and add the crushed Ginger to a pan and bring it to a boil.
4. Boil it for 10-20 minutes so that Ginger can impart more flavor.
5. Strain and drink this Ginger tea 2-3 times a day to control your blood sugar level.
Tips:
To make Ginger tea.
1. Take 2 inches of fresh Ginger.
2. Crush it roughly with a pestle and mortar.
3. Now take 2 cups of water and add the crushed Ginger to a pan and bring it to a boil.
4. Boil it for 10-20 minutes so that Ginger can impart more flavor.
5. Strain and drink this Ginger tea 2-3 times a day to control your blood sugar level.
Ayurvedic View
Ginger helps to control the symptoms of Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). According to Ayurveda, Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is also known as Grahani. Grahani is caused by an imbalance of Pachak Agni (digestive fire). Ginger helps to improve Pachak Agni (digestive fire) due to its Deepan (appetizer) and Pachan (digestive) properties. This helps control the symptoms of IBS.
Tip
Chew a piece of Ginger with rock salt (Sendha namak) to manage the symptoms of IBS.
Tip
Chew a piece of Ginger with rock salt (Sendha namak) to manage the symptoms of IBS.
Ayurvedic View
Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) is known as Amavata in Ayurveda. Amavata is a disease in which vitiation of Vata dosha and accumulation of Ama (toxic remains in the body due to improper digestion) takes place in the joints. Amavata starts with a weak digestive fire which leads to accumulation of Ama. This Ama is carried to different locations through Vata but instead of being absorbed, it gets accumulated in the joints. Ginger helps to correct digestive fire and reduce Ama due to its Deepan (appetizer) Pachan (digestive) properties. It also has Vata balancing property and gives relief from the symptoms of Rheumatoid arthritis like pain and swelling in the joints.
Tips:
To make Ginger tea.
1. Take 2 inches of fresh Ginger.
2. Crush it roughly with a pestle and mortar.
3. Now take 2 cups of water and add the crushed Ginger to a pan and bring it to a boil.
4. Boil it for 10-20 minutes so that Ginger can impart more flavor.
5. Strain and add sugar-free natural sweetener or honey.
6. Drink this Ginger tea 2-3 times a day to control the symptoms of Rheumatoid Arthritis.
Tips:
To make Ginger tea.
1. Take 2 inches of fresh Ginger.
2. Crush it roughly with a pestle and mortar.
3. Now take 2 cups of water and add the crushed Ginger to a pan and bring it to a boil.
4. Boil it for 10-20 minutes so that Ginger can impart more flavor.
5. Strain and add sugar-free natural sweetener or honey.
6. Drink this Ginger tea 2-3 times a day to control the symptoms of Rheumatoid Arthritis.
Modern Science View
Ginger might be beneficial in the management of high blood pressure. It has hypotensive and antioxidant properties. Ginger helps to inhibit the angiotensin II type 1 receptor. Ginger also inhibits lipid peroxidation and protects the blood vessels[3][12].
How effective is Ginger?
Likely effective
Menstrual pain, Morning sicknessasdfasdf, Nausea and vomiting due to HIV/AIDS treatment, Osteoarthritis, Post-operative nausea and vomiting, Vertigo
Insufficient evidence
Alcohol dependence, Bleeding, Cholera, Chronic obstructive pulmonary disorder (COPD), Common cold symptoms, Diabetes, Diarrhoea, Difficulty in swallowing, Discontinuation of antidepressants, High cholesterol ABC, Hypertension (high blood pressure), Induction of labour, Influenza (flu), Insect bite, Irritable bowel syndrome, Joint pain, Migraine, Nausea and vomiting due to chemotherapy, Obesity, Respiratory distress syndrome (immature lungs in preterm baby), Rheumatoid arthritis, Toothache
Precautions when using Ginger
Advice from Experts
Modern Science View
1. Please consult a doctor before taking Ginger or its supplements if you have ulcers, Inflammatory bowel disease, Gallbladder stones.
2. Ginger may interfere with liver functioning. So, it is advised to undergo liver functions test regularly if you are taking any medicines[8].
2. Ginger may interfere with liver functioning. So, it is advised to undergo liver functions test regularly if you are taking any medicines[8].
Ayurvedic View
1. Use Ginger in the recommended dose and duration. This is because a high dose can lead to heartburn, diarrhea and stomach discomfort due to its hot potency.
2. Use Ginger in small quantity and for a short duration if you have any bleeding disorder and excessive Pitta in the body.
2. Use Ginger in small quantity and for a short duration if you have any bleeding disorder and excessive Pitta in the body.
Allergy
Modern Science View
If you are allergic to Ginger or other herbs of Ginger family like Cardamom, it is advisable to consult a doctor before taking Ginger[8].
Other Interaction
Modern Science View
1. Ginger may increase acid level in the stomach. So if you are taking Antacids or PPI, please consult a doctor[8].
2. Ginger may increase the risk of bleeding. So if you are on therapy of blood thinners, please consult a doctor[3][8].
2. Ginger may increase the risk of bleeding. So if you are on therapy of blood thinners, please consult a doctor[3][8].
Ayurvedic View
Ginger should be used in small quantity and for a short duration if you have any bleeding disorder and excessive Pitta in the body.
Patients with diabetes
Modern Science View
Ginger may lower the blood sugar level. So it is generally advisable to monitor your blood sugar regularly while taking Ginger with antidiabetic drugs[3][8].
Ayurvedic View
Monitor your blood sugar level while using Ginger as medicine if you have already under antidiabetic medication.
Patients with heart disease
Modern Science View
Ginger may interfere with blood pressure and normal functioning of the heart. So it is generally advisable to monitor your blood pressure and pulse rate while taking Ginger along with anti-hypertensive drugs[8].
Pregnancy
Modern Science View
Avoid Ginger during Pregnancy as it may increase the risk of Uterine discharge.
Ayurvedic View
Avoid the use of Ginger or use it under medical supervision during pregnancy.
Side Effects
Modern Science View
1. Heartburn
2. Blenching
2. Blenching
FAQs about Ginger precautions
Recommended Dosage of Ginger
- Ginger Churna - ¼ -½ teaspoon twice a day.
- Ginger Capsule - 1-2 capsules twice a day.
- Ginger Tablet - 1-2 tablets twice a day.
How to use Ginger
1. Ginger Churna
a. Take ¼ to ½ teaspoon of Ginger.
b. Mix it honey or take with lukewarm milk twice daily.
2. Ginger Capsule
a. Take 1-2 Ginger capsules.
b. Swallow it with lukewarm water or milk twice daily.
3. Ginger Tablet
a. Take 1-2 Ginger tablets.
b. Swallow it with lukewarm water or milk twice daily.
4. Ginger Fresh Root
a. Take 1-2 inch of Ginger root.
b. Use it in cooking or as per your requirement.
5. Ginger Tea
a. Take 2 inches of fresh Ginger.
b. Crush it roughly with pestle and mortar.
c. Now take 2 cups of water and add the crushed Ginger to a pan and bring it to a boil.
d. Boil it for 10-20 minutes so that Ginger can impart more flavor.
e. Remove the Ginger and filter the tea.
f. Squeeze ½ lemon and add honey after making it a little warm from hot.
g. Drink this Ginger tea to enhance your immunity and for managing cold and sore throat[2].
6. Ginger Gargle
a. Grate a small piece of Ginger.
b. Take 1 tablespoon of this grated Ginger root and add to 1 cup of water.
c. Bring it to boil for 10 minutes.
d. Strain the liquid and add a pinch of salt and black pepper to it.
e. Gargle with this liquid for 4-6 times a day to control a sore throat[2].
7. Ginger Candy
a. Cut the Ginger root into fine pieces.
b. Dry them by putting in a glass container under the sunlight for atleast 10 days.
c. On 4th day add 1 cup of sugar and salt to this container and let it dry for remaining 7 days.
d. You can eat this Ginger candy at the time of motion sickness or nausea[5].
8. Ginger Slices
a. Make thin slices of Ginger root with the help of a sharp knife.
b. Roast these Ginger slices till it becomes crispy.
c. Add some salt to these slices.
d. Eat this to manage a dry cough[2].
a. Take ¼ to ½ teaspoon of Ginger.
b. Mix it honey or take with lukewarm milk twice daily.
2. Ginger Capsule
a. Take 1-2 Ginger capsules.
b. Swallow it with lukewarm water or milk twice daily.
3. Ginger Tablet
a. Take 1-2 Ginger tablets.
b. Swallow it with lukewarm water or milk twice daily.
4. Ginger Fresh Root
a. Take 1-2 inch of Ginger root.
b. Use it in cooking or as per your requirement.
5. Ginger Tea
a. Take 2 inches of fresh Ginger.
b. Crush it roughly with pestle and mortar.
c. Now take 2 cups of water and add the crushed Ginger to a pan and bring it to a boil.
d. Boil it for 10-20 minutes so that Ginger can impart more flavor.
e. Remove the Ginger and filter the tea.
f. Squeeze ½ lemon and add honey after making it a little warm from hot.
g. Drink this Ginger tea to enhance your immunity and for managing cold and sore throat[2].
6. Ginger Gargle
a. Grate a small piece of Ginger.
b. Take 1 tablespoon of this grated Ginger root and add to 1 cup of water.
c. Bring it to boil for 10 minutes.
d. Strain the liquid and add a pinch of salt and black pepper to it.
e. Gargle with this liquid for 4-6 times a day to control a sore throat[2].
7. Ginger Candy
a. Cut the Ginger root into fine pieces.
b. Dry them by putting in a glass container under the sunlight for atleast 10 days.
c. On 4th day add 1 cup of sugar and salt to this container and let it dry for remaining 7 days.
d. You can eat this Ginger candy at the time of motion sickness or nausea[5].
8. Ginger Slices
a. Make thin slices of Ginger root with the help of a sharp knife.
b. Roast these Ginger slices till it becomes crispy.
c. Add some salt to these slices.
d. Eat this to manage a dry cough[2].
Benefits of Ginger
How effective is Ginger?
Insufficient evidence
Hair loss
Precautions when using Ginger
Allergy
Modern Science View
Ginger may cause a hypersensitive reaction in the skin. So please consult a doctor if you find any redness or rashes on the skin[8].
Recommended Dosage of Ginger
- Ginger Juice - 1-2 teaspoons or as per your requirement.
- Ginger Powder - ½-1 teaspoon or as per your requirement.
How to use Ginger
1. Ginger Juice
a. Take 1-2 teaspoon of Ginger juice.
b. Add it to the bucket full of lukewarm water.
c. Take bath with this water to manage muscle spasm or muscle cramps[4].
2. Ginger Skin Toner
a. Take ½-1 teaspoon of Ginger powder or freshly grated Ginger.
b. Mix honey to it.
c. Apply on the face.
d. Wash it thoroughly with tap water after 5-7 minutes.
e. Use this remedy once a day for effective skin cleaning and for anti ageing effect.
a. Take 1-2 teaspoon of Ginger juice.
b. Add it to the bucket full of lukewarm water.
c. Take bath with this water to manage muscle spasm or muscle cramps[4].
2. Ginger Skin Toner
a. Take ½-1 teaspoon of Ginger powder or freshly grated Ginger.
b. Mix honey to it.
c. Apply on the face.
d. Wash it thoroughly with tap water after 5-7 minutes.
e. Use this remedy once a day for effective skin cleaning and for anti ageing effect.
Frequently asked questions
Modern Science View
Although, Ginger peel is safe to eat, it is advisable to remove the peel before consuming raw Ginger.
Modern Science View
Ginger acts as a natural laxative and is an effective remedy for constipation.
Modern Science View
Ginger has not been found to treat or cure kidney disease, but its benefits against indigestion and nausea can help dialysis patients who undergo these symptoms.
Modern Science View
Drinking a cup of Ginger tea before traveling can help prevent nausea and vomiting associated with motion sickness. You can also drink a cup at the first sign of nausea to relieve the symptom. It is useful in improving digestion and increasing absorption of food. However, excess and daily consumption of Ginger tea may result in bloating and hyperacidity.
Modern Science View
Although not enough evidence is available, one study states that Ginger might help give relief from a cough. This is due to its anti-tussive property[11].
Ayurvedic View
Ginger is useful for skin problems like acne. Applying Ginger externally also removes excess oil and control excessive production of sebum. This is due to its Kapha balancing property. But it is advisable to do a patch test with Ginger juice to test for any reactions on the skin.
Tips:
1. Take 1-2 teaspoon Ginger juice.
2. Add honey to it and mix well.
3. Apply to the skin and leave it for 20-30 minutes.
4. Rinse it with cold water to control acne.
Tips:
1. Take 1-2 teaspoon Ginger juice.
2. Add honey to it and mix well.
3. Apply to the skin and leave it for 20-30 minutes.
4. Rinse it with cold water to control acne.
References
- The Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia Of India. Part 1 Volume 1.
- Dhanik J, Arya M, Nand V.A review on Zingiber officinale.J Pharmacogn Phytochem. 2017;6(3):174-184.",https://www.webmd.com/vitamins/ai/ingredientmono-961/ginger,"Mashhadi NS, Ghiasvand R, Askari G.et.al.Anti-Oxidative and Anti-Inflammatory Effects of Ginger in Health and Physical Activity: Review of Current Evidence.Int J Prev Med. 2013;4:S36–S42.
- Holtmann AH, Clarke H, Scherer MH, “The antimotion sickness mechanism of ginger.A comparative study with placebo and dimenhydrinate,”Acta Oto-Laryngologica.1989:3-4(108):168–174.
- Moghaddasi MS, Kashani HH.Ginger (Zingiber officinale): A review.J Med Plant Res.2012;6(26):4255-4258.
- Balkrishnan A.Adrak.Ayurved Jadi Buti Rehsya. Danik Bhaskar.2017.
- Ulbricht CE.Natural Standard:Herb and Supplement Guide, An Evidence Based Reference.Elsevier;2010.
- Tchombé NL, Louajri A, Benajiba MH. Therapeutic effects of Ginger (Zingiber officinale). ISESCO Journal of Science and Technology.2012;8(14):64-69.
- Prasad S, Tyagi AK. Ginger and its constituents: Role in prevention and treatment of gastrointestinal cancer. Gastroenterology Research and Practice.2015.
- Bode AM, Dong Z. The amazing and mighty Ginger (Chapter 7). Herbal Medicine: Biomolecular and Clinical Aspects. 2nd edition. Boca Raton (FL): CRC Press/Taylor & Francis; 2011;1-30.
- Al Disi SS, Anwar MA, Eid AH. Anti-hypertensive herbs and their mechanisms of action: Part I.Front Pharmacol.2015;6:323.
- Bera K, Nosalova G, Sivova V, et al.Structural Elements and cough suppressing activity of polysaccharides from Zingiber officinale rhizome.Phytother Res. 2016 Jan;30(1):105-11.
Disclaimer
The content is purely informative and educational in nature and should not be construed as medical advice. Please use the content only in consultation with an appropriate certified medical or healthcare professional.