Ginger against nausea: Does it really work?

Ginger has been known for centuries for its medicinal properties and is often used as a natural remedy for nausea and stomach complaints. But does it really work?

How does ginger help against nausea?

Ginger derives its medicinal properties from Gingerol, the most important bioactive substance in fresh ginger, and shogaols, connections responsible for the spicy taste of the root. Research suggests that ginger stimulates digestion and speeds up gastric emptying, which can help reduce nausea. In addition, ginger has anti -inflammatory properties and supports the release of blood pressure -regulating hormones. These combined effects can calm the body and thus contribute to relieving nausea.

Ginger against nausea during pregnancy

About 80% of women experience nausea and vomiting during the first trimester of pregnancy. Most research into ginger against pregnancy sickness therefore focuses on this period. Studies show that ginger is more effective than a placebo when reducing morning sickness.

For example, a study of 67 pregnant women around the 13th week showed that a daily dose of 1,000 mg of bruted ginger and vomiting decreased considerably in comparison with a placebo.

In general, up to 1 gram of ginger per day is considered safe for the treatment of pregnancy sickness. This corresponds to 1 teaspoon (5 grams) fresh grated ginger, 1/2 teaspoon (2 ml) liquid extract, 4 cups (950 ml) ginger tea, 2 teaspoons (10 ml) ginger syrup or two pieces of candied ginger of 2.5 cm.

An overview of 12 studies with a total of 1,278 pregnant women concluded that an intake of less than 1,500 mg ginger per day does not give an increased risk of heartburn, miscarriages or sleepiness. Higher doses, however, seem to be less effective and can cause more side effects.

Nevertheless, it is not recommended to use ginger supplements just before delivery, because this can increase the risk of bleeding. For the same reason, ginger is not suitable for pregnant women with a history of miscarriages or blood clotting disorders.

Ginger against travel sickness

Travel sickness arises when actual or observed movement, such as during a boat or car ride, causes nausea. Interesting is that the word “nausea” comes from the Greek word naus, which means “ship”.

Ginger can help in some people to reduce travel sickness. Scientists suspect that this is because ginger supports digestion and keeps blood pressure stable, which prevents nausea.

Also read: What about travel sickness or motion sickness?

Ginger against nausea by chemo and operations

About 75% of people who undergo chemotherapy have to deal with serious nausea as a side effect.

A study of 576 cancer patients showed that taking 0.5 to 1 grams of liquid ginger extract twice a day – with starting three days before chemotherapy – the nausea was considerably reduced compared to a placebo.

In addition, ginger can help with nausea after surgery. A study with 150 women showed that 500 mg ginger, taken one hour for a gallbladder surgery, reduced the postoperative nausea compared to a placebo

Ginger against digestive complaints

Research shows that a daily dose of 1,500 mg ginger, spread over several intakes, can relieve nausea in stomach and intestinal complaints.

Ginger can speed up gastric emptying, reduce intestinal cramps, prevent bloating and reducing pressure in the digestive tract – factors that can help reduce nausea.

Also read: Gastroparesis: Symptoms and treatment of delayed gastric emptying

How do you use ginger against nausea?

You can use ginger in different ways to relieve nausea:

• Tea: up to 4 cups (950 ml) ginger tea per day can help. Let fresh ginger pulled in hot water and drink slowly so as not to worsen nausea.
• Supplements: Choose capsules with 100% ginger and without unnecessary additives.
• Canded ginger: Some pregnant women experience lighting with this variant, but be careful with the added sugars.
• Essential oil: Inhalation of ginger oil can reduce postoperative nausea, as research suggests

The American FDA regards up to 4 grams of ginger per day as safe, but most studies use lower doses.

The optimum dose for nausea varies, but is usually between 200 and 2,000 mg per day. Consult with a doctor to determine the best dose for you.

Does ginger have side effects?

Many studies confirm that ginger is generally safe for various disorders. Yet some people can experience side effects, such as heartburn, a bloated feeling, diarrhea or stomach complaints. These effects can vary depending on the person, the dosage and the frequency of use.

In addition, a high dose of ginger can stimulate bile production, making it less suitable for people with gallbladder disorders. Caution is also required for the use of blood thinners, because ginger may have an interaction with these medicines, although scientific evidence is mixed about this.

Do you want to use ginger for medicinal purposes, such as nausea? Then first consult with your doctor to be sure of a safe application.

Also read: Save ginger, how do you do that?

Sources:
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
https://www.nccih.nih.gov
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov