Adithya Padinharayil
BAMS (Bachelor of Ayurvedic Medicine and Surgery), MD Ayurveda
Ginger is a popular plant that has been used for centuries. Dry and fresh roots appeared in many forms of food such as food flavouring agents, herbal tea, biscuits, candy and juice.
Ginger is derived from the ancient Sanskrit word Sringavera, which means “shaped like horn”. In Ayurveda, it is used in various conditions ranging from gastrointestinal upsets to cancer.
Modern medicine and studies have concluded that ginger can assist with:
- Liver and respiratory health
- Diabetes and obesity
- Reducing inflammation and pain
and several other areas and conditions that are described in detail in the article.
Introduction
Ginger, known as Shunti (derived from word “Shuth,” meaning to purify) in Ayurveda, is highly praised for its healing properties and is also known by numerous synonyms such as Mahaaushada (a very effective medication) and Vishwa Bheshaja (a universal remedy).
Rhizome of the plant can be utilised in both its fresh (Ardraka) and dried (Shunti) forms to address a range of health problems.
Other names
Botanical Name: Zingiber officinale Roscoe.
Family: Scitaminae.
Other names: Zenzero (Italian), Jinjaa (Japanese), Chinese (Jiang), Gember (Dutch), Gingembre (French), Tinitia (Maori).
Characteristics
Ginger originated in South Asia and is now widely distributed across many countries including Australia, Fiji, Hawaii, Jamaica, Mexico, Nigeria, Brazil, New Zealand, Thailand and others.
Zingiber officinale is an upright perennial herb with a pungent, aromatic rhizome. The stems are erect and leafy, reaching a height of 60 to 90cm.
Leaves are 10 to 30cm long, sessile, linear-lanceolate and glabrous, while the flowers are greenish with a small dark purple lip, measuring 4 to 7cm in length. The rhizome is 5 to 15cm long, laterally compressed, buff-colored, and exhibits lateral striations.[1]
Chemical composition
The phenolic compounds are gingerols, shogaols, paradols, quercetin, zingerone, gingerenone-A, and 6-dehydrogingerdione.
Terpene components are β-bisabolene, α-curcumene, zingiberene, α-farnesene, and β-sesquiphellandrene.
Polysaccharides, lipids, organic acids, and raw fibers are also present in ginger.[2]
Use
Traditional use
In traditional Ayurvedic medicine, ginger can be used for different health issues and concerns. Dried and fresh forms have many similar properties and differences.
Difference between fresh and dry ginger
| Properties | Fresh ginger | Dry ginger |
| Rasa (Taste) | Katu (Pungent) | Katu (Pungent) |
| Guna (Qualities) | Guru (Heavy), Ruksha (Dry) | Laghu (Light), Snigdha (Unctuous) |
| Virya (Potency) | Usna (Hot) | Usna (Hot) |
| Vipaka (Taste conversion after digestion) | Madhura (Sweet) | Madhura (Sweet) |
| Pharmacological action | Rochana Deepana Jihwa Kanda Vishodhana | Vrushya (aphrodisiac) Deepana |
| Therapeutic indication | Edema, asthma, chronic respiratory issues, constipation, cough, heart disease, kidney disease | Edema, asthma, chronic respiratory issues, cough, anemia, constipation, rheumatoid arthritis, abdominal pain and bloating |
Dry ginger has properties like unctuous and hot potency, making it suitable for long-term use and effective at a deeper tissue level.
In contrast, fresh ginger, while also hot but dry in nature, has a stronger effect, which limits its use over extended periods.
Dry ginger is absorbent i.e., it absorbs water content in the bowel. On the other hand, fresh ginger can cause diarrhoea.
Fresh ginger is limited to use in summer and autumn season due to its qualities and it may disturb the balance of body dosha.[3]
Medicinal use
Studies and research have shown that ginger is:
- Anti-inflammatory
- Hypolipidemic
- Anti-atherosclerotic
- Hypoglycaemic
- Hepatoprotective
- Antiemetic
- Antioxidant
- Antimicrobial
- Antibacterial
- Antifungal
- Antiviral
- Analgesic
Nutritional facts
Ginger is rich in protein, fat, and carbohydrates. It contains minerals like iron, calcium, magnesium, potassium, and sodium, as well as vitamins such as vitamin C and vitamin B6.[4]
Ginger nutritional value per 100g | |
Protein | 1.82g |
Fat | 0.75g |
Carbohydrates | 17.8g |
0.6mg | |
16mg | |
43mg | |
Phosphorus | 34mg |
415mg | |
Sodium (for nerve health, and fluid and minerals equilibrium) | 13mg |
5mg | |
Vitamin B6 | 0.16mg |
Ginger is a good source of vitamins and minerals, and it’s advised to be added to a healthy diet.
Health benefits
Antioxidant activity
Antioxidants are compounds that help protect cells and tissues from oxidative damage.
A study on the antioxidant activity of ginger and its different forms showed that fresh and dried ginger extracts have higher activity.
Comparatively, it was reported that the antioxidant activity of fresh ginger root ranged from 97.47 ± 0.93% to 99.06 ± 1.00%.[5]
Fresh and dried ginger extracts have higher potency
In animal models, ginger has demonstrated antioxidant activity by reducing lipid peroxidation, which leads to formation of harmful compounds that can damage cells and contribute to various diseases.[6]
Anti-inflammatory activity in the liver
Ginger is a well known source of natural anti-inflammatory compounds.
A preclinical study using animal models evaluated the effect of ginger extract on NF-κB and TNF-α expression in liver cancer-induced rats.
NF-κB and TNF-α are crucial in the inflammatory pathway, and their activation contributes to the development of various autoimmune, inflammatory, and malignant disorders.
Male rats were grouped based on diet:
- control
- olive oil
- ginger extract
- choline-deficient diet 0.1% ethionine in drinking water
- choline-deficient diet 0.1% ethionine in drinking water + ginger extract
After eight weeks, CDE diet + ginger extract significantly reduced TNF-α and NF-κB levels and activation.
The study indicates that ginger extract has a potential therapeutic effect in reducing inflammation and tumor progression in liver cancer-induced rats.[7]
Anti-inflammatory action on joints and connective tissue
Ginger is commonly used to manage inflammatory conditions related to joints, such as rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis.
Clinical studies on the efficacy of ginger extract for knee joint pain in patients with osteoarthritis have demonstrated a significantly greater reduction in pain in the group treated with ginger extract compared to the control group.[8]
Ginger can assist with osteoarthritis and reduce pain
Ginger has the ability to inhibit inflammatory enzymes like COX -1 and decreases levels of inflammatory markers like TNF-α, IL-1β and also provides pain relief from osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.[9]
We can observe the study results in the image below.
The arrows preface the number of clinical trials conducted on RA (n = 2) and OA patients (n = 11) and the number of preclinical studies conducted in vitro (n = 10) and in vivo (n = 8).
CRP—c-reactive protein; OA—osteoarthritis; RA—rheumatoid arthritis; and ROS—reactive oxygen species.
Analgesic activity
A study compared the analgesic effect of ginger powder to ibuprofen in post surgical pain models, and concluded that ginger had similar efficiency in pain reduction.[10]
The analgesic effect of ginger is due to gingerol, a compound in ginger, is responsible for its potent analgesic effect due to its vanillyl moiety.
In addition, ginger modulates pain by inhibiting the production of prostaglandins. As a result, ginger is used for various conditions like muscle pain, dysmenorrhea, arthritis and joint pain.[11]
Antiemetic activity
Studies have investigated the antiemetic effect of ginger, which showed a similar effect compared to other medication groups such as vitamin B6 (pyridoxine), antihistamines, or metoclopramide.[12]
RELATED — Vitamin B6 (Pyridoxine)
The exact mechanism of ginger’s effect on nausea and vomiting is unclear. It might be due to the activation of vagal afferent neurons by serotonin (5-HT) is crucial for triggering vomiting.
Ginger also enhances gastrointestinal function by increasing gastric tone and motility. It has been reported to increase gastric emptying help to reduce nausea and vomiting.
Ginger is used in conditions like morning sickness in pregnancy, motion sickness, postoperative nausea and vomiting, chemotherapy induced nausea and vomiting.[13]
Ginger might assist with morning sickness in pregnancy
Respiratory health
Ginger and its bioactive constituents including 6-gingerol, 8-gingerol, 6-shogaol have shown to have protective effects against respiratory disorders.
These effects are achieved through the:
- relaxation of airway smooth muscle
- attenuation of airway resistance
- reduction of inflammation
Specifically, 6-gingerol, 8-gingerol, and 6-shogaol found to induce rapid relaxation in precontracted airway smooth muscle.[14]
The purified active components of crude ginger, [6]-gingerol, [8]-gingerol, and [6]-shogaol, produced relaxation of 60–90% .
Diabetes
Numerous in vivo, in vitro, and human trials have been conducted to evaluate the antidiabetic potential of ginger.
A study conducted on the effects of ginger consumption on glycemic status in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) found that ginger:
- significantly lowered fasting blood sugar
- lowered glycosylated haemoglobin (HbA1c)
improved insulin sensitivity and resistance[15]
Ginger’s antidiabetic effects are attributed to its restorative effects on pancreatic β-cells, increasing insulin sensitivity and enhancing peripheral glucose utilisation.
It also increases liver glycogen storage and reduces liver glucose production.[16]
RELATED — Diabetes untreated (Part 1): Microvascular diseases and health risks
Antimicrobial activity
Ginger exhibits antimicrobial activities due to its active components including gingerol, paradol, shogaols, and zingerone.
A comparative study on the antimicrobial activity of ginger extract against foodborne pathogenic bacteria demonstrated that ginger extract in soybean oil exhibited significantly higher activity, compared to soybean oil alone.[17]
Ginger inhibits biofilm formation, a key factor in infections and antimicrobial resistance.
Its essential oils are effective against Fusarium verticillioides and Aspergillus flavus, possibly by reducing ergosterol biosynthesis and affecting membrane integrity.
Additionally, fresh ginger inhibits plaque formation induced by the human respiratory syncytial virus (HRSV) by blocking viral attachment and internalisation in respiratory tract cell lines.[18]
Obesity
A preclinical study investigated the effect of ginger water (a white-colored liquid obtained from freeze-drying fresh ginger rhizome) on body weight and energy expenditure.
The group that received ginger water showed a:
- significant decrease in average body weight gain
- serum cholesterol
- serum triglyceride [19]
Ginger and its bioactive constituents, including gingerenone A, 6-shogaol, and 6-gingerol, have shown antiobesity activity, with the mechanisms mainly related to the inhibition of adipogenesis and the enhancement of fatty acid catabolism.
Therapeutic dosage
Adult dosage of ginger powder is 750mg-1.5g of ginger powder Fresh juice can be taken at 3-10ml per day.[20]
Safety concerns
There have been no reported adverse reactions to ginger exposure when taken at recommended doses of 4 grams.
Higher doses may cause gastrointestinal discomfort such as:
- reflux
- heartburn
- diarrhoea
- allergic responses
- prolonged pre-existing bleeding
- central nervous system depression
- arrhythmia
Ginger might also exacerbate gallstone formation.[21]
Ginger is generally safe during the early stages of pregnancy, but it’s important to consult an expert for personalised advice.[21]
Possible interaction with medications
Ginger can interact with anti-inflammatory drugs
Seek your doctor’s advice if you are taking ginger along with pharmaceutical medication.
Possible interaction with herbs and supplements
Ginger is generally considered safe to consume with other herbs and dietary supplements.
Summary
Note — feel free to share or download this illustration.
Related Questions
1. What is the healthiest way to consume ginger?
Ginger can be consumed cooked or raw, in the form of fresh juice or dried powder, in recommended doses and durations.
In most cases, it is best to consume ginger when raw and fresh.
2. Can ginger assist with fat loss?
Yes, ginger has the ability to reduce body fat, but it’s important to follow recommended methods of consumption.
3. Can ginger improve digestion?
Yes, it is a digestive stimulant, promoting the secretion of various digestive enzymes and stimulating bile production in the liver.
Adithya is an emerging Ayurvedic pediatrician, who recently embarked on her professional journey after completing her Bachelor’s degree in Ayurvedic Medicine and Surgery (BAMS) in 2018. Building on this foundation, Dr. Adithya earned a Master’s degree in Ayurvedic Pediatrics…
If you would like to learn more about Adithya, see Expert: Adithya Padinharayil.
References
(1) Shastry, J. L. N. (Reprint eds). (2016). Dravyaguna Vijnana. Varanasi: Chaukamba Orientalia.
(2) Mao, Q. Q., Xu, X. Y., Cao, S. Y., Gan, R. Y., Corke, H., Beta, T., Li, H. B. (2019). Bioactive Compounds and Bioactivities of Ginger (Zingiber officinale Roscoe). Foods. 8(6):185. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6616534/
(3) Mishra, B.(2002). Bhavaprakasha Nighantu. Vidyodhini hindi commentary. Varanasi: Chaukhamba orientalia.
(4) United States Department of Agriculture (2018). FoodDataCentral.USDA Agricultural Research. Service.https://fdc.nal.usda.gov/food-details/169231/attributes
(5) Ozola, B. Augšpole, I. Duma, M. Kreicbergs, V. (2019). Bioactive compounds in fresh and dried ginger root (Zingiber Officinale). https://www.researchgate.net/publication/333858308_Bioactive_compounds_in_fresh_and_dried_ginger_root_Zingiber_Officinale
(6) Mashhadi, N. S., Ghiasvand, R., Askari, G., Hariri, M., Darvishi, L., & Mofid, M. R. (2013). Anti-oxidative and anti-inflammatory effects of ginger in health and physical activity: review of current evidence. International journal of preventive medicine. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3665023/
(7) Habib, S. H., Makpol, S., Hamid, N. A., Das, S., Ngah, W. Z., Yusof, Y.A. (2008) . Ginger extract (Zingiber officinale) has anti-cancer and anti-inflammatory effects on ethionine-induced hepatoma rats. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1807593222027272?via%3Dihub
(8) Altman, R. D., Marcussen, K. C. (2001). Effects of a ginger extract on knee pain in patients with osteoarthritis. Arthritis Rheum.
(9) Szymczak, J., Górniak, G. B., Piontek. J. (2024). Zingiber Officinale Roscoe: The Antiarthritic Potential of a Popular Spice-Preclinical and Clinical Evidence.
(10) Rayati, F., Hajmanouchehri, F., Najafi, E. (2017). Comparison of anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects of Ginger powder and Ibuprofen in postsurgical pain model: A randomised, double-blind, case–control clinical trial. https://www.researchgate.net/publication/314120097_Comparison_of_anti-inflammatory_and_analgesic_effects_of_Ginger_powder_and_Ibuprofen_in_postsurgical_pain_model_A_randomized_double-blind_case-control_clinical_trial.
(11) Rondanelli, M., Fossari, F., Vecchio, V., Gasparri, C., Peroni, G., Spadaccini, D., Riva, A., Petrangolini, G., Iannello. G., Nichetti, M., Infantino. V., Perna, S. (2020). Clinical trials on pain lowering effect of ginger: A narrative review.
(12) Anh, N. H., Kim, S. J., Long, N. P., Min, J. E., Yoon, Y. C., Lee, E. G., Kim, M., Kim, T. J., Yang, Y. Y., Son, E. Y., Yoon, S. J., Diem, N. C., Kim, H. M., Kwon, S. W. (2020) Ginger on Human Health: A Comprehensive Systematic Review of 109 Randomised Controlled Trials. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7019938/
(13) Lete, I., Allué, J. (2016) The Effectiveness of Ginger in the Prevention of Nausea and Vomiting during Pregnancy and Chemotherapy. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4818021/
(14) Townsend, E. A., Siviski, M. E., Zhang, Y., Xu, C., Hoonjan, B., Emala, C. W. (2013). Effects of ginger and its constituents on airway smooth muscle relaxation and calcium regulation.
(15) Huang, F. Y., Deng, T., Meng, L. X., Ma, X. L. (2019) Dietary ginger as a traditional therapy for blood sugar control in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus: A systematic review and meta-analysis. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6455977/
(16) Otunola, G., Afolayan, A. (2020). A Review of the Antidiabetic Activities of Ginger. https://www.researchgate.net/publication/339393813_A_Review_of_the_Antidiabetic_Activities_of_Ginger.
(17) Islam, Kamrul & Rowsni, Asma & Khan, Md & Kabir, Md. (2014). Antimicrobial activity of ginger (Zingiber officinale) extracts against food-borne pathogenic bacteria. International Journal of Science, Environment and Technology.
(18) Mao, Q. Q., Xu, X. Y., Cao, S. Y., Gan, R. Y., Corke, H., Beta, T., & Li, H. B. (2019). Bioactive Compounds and Bioactivities of Ginger (Zingiber officinale Roscoe). https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6616534/
(19) (Sayed S, Ahmed M, El-Shehawi A, Alkafafy M, Al-Otaibi S, El-Sawy H, Farouk S, El-Shazly S. Ginger Water Reduces Body Weight Gain and Improves Energy Expenditure in Rats. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7023345/
(20) Kanashetti, D., Maurya, B. (2021). Shunthi (Zingiber officinale Rosc.). A Miraculous Medicinal Plant. Published_by_Advanced_Research_Publications https://www.researchgate.net/publication/362279396
21) Modi M, Modi K. (2024). Ginger Root. In: StatPearls [Internet]. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK565886/
22) Bhakat, A. Saha, S (2017). Review On The Traditional And Contemporary Uses Of Sunthi (Zingiber Officinale Rosc.)And It’s Medicinal Importance In Ayurveda. International Ayurvedic Medical Journal.
https://www.iamj.in/posts/2017/images/upload/3075_3081_1.pdf
