Ginger Health Benefits & Risks

Ginger is an herb and a rhizome, an underground root. Fresh ginger can be found at any supermarket, but dried and powdered forms are readily available, as are ginger juices and teas. In addition to being used for medicinal purposes, it’s widely employed as an important cooking spice, especially in Asian countries such as India and China.

The key active components of the ginger are thought to be volatile oils and phenol compounds, such as gingerols and shogaols.

Health Benefits 

Helps relieve nausea and motion sickness.
Various forms of ginger—nonalcoholic ginger ale or beer, pills, and candied gingerroot—have been used to counter the nausea and vomiting of motion sickness. One study found that ginger was as effective as the prescription medication scopolamine in preventing motion sickness, without causing the drowsiness that sometimes comes with the drug.

Relieves pain.
Because ginger blocks the pro-inflammatory hormones, it may also be useful in helping people who suffer from the pain of migraines; studies suggest that taking ginger at the first sign of a migraine can help reduce symptoms. Furthermore, ginger may help those afflicted by arthritis. Studies have shown that people with osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis experienced less pain and swelling when they took powdered ginger daily.

May help prevent certain types of cancer.
A number of studies point to cancer-fighting properties of ginger. In one from the University of Michigan, ginger was found to cause ovarian cancer cells to die; in another, gingerroot supplements reduced inflammation in the colon, which suggested that ginger may have potential as a preventive measure. Tumors induced in laboratory animals grow much more slowly if the animals are pretreated with beta-ionone, a compound found in ginger.

QUICK TIP:

Relieve a cold with ginger tea

Here’s a comforting way to relieve the chills and congestion of a cold: Make ginger tea by simmering one or two slices of fresh gingerroot in water for 10 minutes; add a pinch of cinnamon for extra flavor.

Can reduce flatulence.
Ginger, like peppermint and chamomile, can be used to treat gas, along with its associated bloating and pain. Adding a slice or two of peeled raw ginger to bean dishes is said to reduce the flatulence these foods often cause.

Health Risks

Blood clotting.
Do not eat ginger if you have bleeding disorders as it may inhibit clotting.

Low blood sugar.
Ginger may lower blood sugar levels, so monitor your sugar carefully or talk to your doctor about changing medication.

Pregnancy.
Some studies raise concerns of miscarriage and other problems with intake of ginger during pregnancy, such as risk of malformation. However, other studies state ginger is safe to use for morning sickness if taken for short periods (no longer than 4 days). Discuss benefits and drawbacks with your doctor.

Mouth and mucous membranes.
In botanical medicine, ginger is considered a warming herb, one that causes the inside of the body to generate more heat, which can inflame the mouth and mucous membranes. Avoid it if you find consuming it uncomfortable.

Eating Tips
• Add a slice to tea as it brews.
• Sprinkle chopped candied ginger over morning oatmeal.
• Stir a heaping spoonful of grated ginger into mashed sweet potatoes.

 Buying Tip
• When buying fresh ginger, look for plump roots without blemishes.

Storing Tips
• Store unpeeled ginger in a sealed plastic bag with all the air pressed out in the refrigerator.
• Make sure there is no moisture on the ginger before storing.
• Sealed in this manner, the ginger should last 2 weeks.
• Ginger can also be frozen for 1 to 2 months.

WARNING! FOOD-DRUG INTERACTION
Consuming ginger while on medications that slow bleeding, such as warfarin, may cause bleeding and bruises. If you are on these medications, do not eat ginger.