Ginger
Also known as: Zingiber officinale, ginger root, gingerol
Recommended Dosage
1–2 g
Ginger (Zingiber officinale) contains bioactive gingerols and shogaols that inhibit COX and lipoxygenase pathways, providing anti-inflammatory and anti-nausea effects. It has strong evidence as an antiemetic — comparable to dimenhydrinate for motion sickness and effective for pregnancy-related nausea. Meta-analyses also show benefits for reducing muscle soreness (DOMS), osteoarthritis pain, and fasting blood glucose levels.
TL;DR: Excellent evidence for anti-nausea effects (pregnancy, chemotherapy, post-op). Also anti-inflammatory with COX-2 inhibition.
Quick Facts
Evidence
Grade A
Studies
3
Interactions
2
Forms
1
Evidence Rating: Grade A — Strong Evidence
Multiple high-quality RCTs, systematic reviews, or meta-analyses with consistent findings.
Interaction Warnings
Mild antiplatelet activity at high doses (>4g/day); monitor INR
Modest glucose-lowering effect; may potentiate medication
Important Notes
- Safe at 1g/day in pregnancy for nausea
- Stop 2 weeks before surgery at high doses
- Caution in gallstone disease (stimulates bile)
Clinical Evidence (3 studies)
Ginger for first-trimester nausea and vomiting
Vutyavanich T et al. (2001) — Obstet Gynecol
1g/day significantly reduced nausea and vomiting vs placebo; RCT
View on PubMedGinger in gastrointestinal disorders
Haniadka R et al. (2013) — Food Funct
Review of human clinical trials for GI disorders
View on PubMedGinger and chemotherapy-induced nausea
Marx W et al. (2017) — Crit Rev Food Sci Nutr
Systematic review and meta-analysis: effective adjunct for CINV
View on PubMedAlternatives to Consider
These supplements target similar goals and may be worth considering alongside or instead of Ginger.
Probiotics
Grade BBeneficial bacteria for gut health. Strain selection matters — L. rhamnosus GG, B. infantis 35624, and S. boulardii are best-studied.
Glutamine
Grade BConditionally essential amino acid that is the primary fuel for gut lining cells. RCT evidence for IBS and leaky gut.
Black Seed Oil
Grade BWidely studied traditional remedy with strong anti-inflammatory properties from thymoquinone. Evidence for metabolic health, immune modulation, and gut health. Oil form preferred for absorption.
Related Supplements
Probiotics
Grade B — Moderate EvidenceBeneficial bacteria for gut health. Strain selection matters — L. rhamnosus GG, B. infantis 35624, and S. boulardii are best-studied.
Glutamine
Grade B — Moderate EvidenceConditionally essential amino acid that is the primary fuel for gut lining cells. RCT evidence for IBS and leaky gut.
Black Seed Oil
Grade B — Moderate EvidenceWidely studied traditional remedy with strong anti-inflammatory properties from thymoquinone. Evidence for metabolic health, immune modulation, and gut health. Oil form preferred for absorption.
Bromelain
Grade B — Moderate EvidenceProteolytic enzyme from pineapple with evidence for reducing inflammation, swelling, and pain. Comparable to NSAIDs in some studies. Must take on empty stomach for systemic effects.
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⚕️ Important Disclaimer
This information is for educational purposes only. It is not medical advice. Always consult a healthcare provider before starting any supplement regimen, especially if you take medications or have health conditions.
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