Ginger is a root plant that has been used for centuries in traditional medicine for its medicinal properties. Ginger contains several chemical compounds, including gingerol, shogaol, and zingerone, 
which give it its distinct flavor and aroma while also providing its therapeutic effects. The benefits of ginger include antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties, which have been the focus of research on ginger's potential uses in modern medicine.
One of the most well-studied medicinal properties of ginger is its ability to alleviate nausea and vomiting. Several clinical trials have found that ginger is effective in reducing nausea and vomiting caused by motion sickness, chemotherapy, and pregnancy. Ginger is thought to work by blocking serotonin receptors in the brain that are responsible for triggering nausea and vomiting.
Ginger may also have potential uses for reducing inflammation and pain. One study found that ginger extract was as effective as a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) in reducing pain and inflammation in people with osteoarthritis. Another study found that ginger could significantly reduce muscle pain following intense exercise.
Other benefits of ginger in modern medicine include:
Improving digestion:
Studies have shown that ginger stimulates the production of digestive juices, including enzymes and bile, which play a crucial role in breaking down and absorbing nutrients from our food. When our digestive system is not functioning properly, these juices may not be produced in adequate amounts, leading to discomfort and gastrointestinal issues.
Indigestion
Indigestion is a common condition characterized by discomfort or pain in the upper abdomen, can be caused by a variety of factors, including overeating, eating too quickly, or consuming spicy or fatty foods. Ginger has been shown to help reduce symptoms of indigestion by increasing the speed at which food is emptied from the stomach, thus relieving pressure on the digestive system.
Bloating
Bloating is another common complaint that can cause discomfort, tightness, and even pain in the abdomen. It occurs when excessive gas accumulates in the intestines, often as a result of consuming certain foods or a lack of fiber in the diet. Ginger can help alleviate bloating by reducing the time it takes for food to pass through the digestive system, which minimizes the amount of gas produced.
Constipation
Constipation is a condition characterized by difficulty in passing stools, is another common gastrointestinal ailment. Ginger can help relieve constipation by promoting proper bowel movements and stimulating the muscles of the digestive tract.
Furthermore, ginger has been shown to help alleviate acid reflux, a condition in which stomach acid flows back into the esophagus, causing heartburn and discomfort. Ginger works by reducing the production of acid in the stomach, which can help alleviate symptoms of acid reflux.
Lowering cholesterol:
Studies have found that ginger can lower high levels of cholesterol, which may help reduce the risk of heart disease.
High levels of cholesterol within the blood are one of the primary risk factors for developing heart disease. Cholesterol is a fat-like substance that is produced by the liver and is also found in certain foods. High levels of LDL (bad) cholesterol can build up in the walls of the arteries, increasing the risk of heart attacks, strokes, and other health problems.
Studies have shown that ginger may positively affect cholesterol levels. In a study published in the Journal of Nutrition, researchers found that rats who were fed a high-cholesterol diet along with ginger had lower levels of total and LDL cholesterol than a control group. Another study published in the Saudi Medical Journal found that ginger supplementation significantly reduced total cholesterol and triglycerides in patients with high levels of these markers.
The exact mechanism of action for ginger's cholesterol-lowering effects is not yet fully understood, but it is believed that ginger may inhibit the absorption of cholesterol in the digestive system. Ginger also contains compounds called gingerols and shogaols which have potent antioxidant properties. These antioxidants may protect the body against the oxidative and inflammatory damage that can contribute to heart disease development.
Supporting immune function:
Ginger has been found to have antibacterial and antifungal properties, which may help support immune function and prevent infections.
Ginger has also been proven to be effective against common types of bacteria and fungi, including E. coli, Staphylococcus aureus, Candida albicans, and Aspergillus niger. These microorganisms are known to cause a wide range of infections, from urinary tract infections to skin infections. By using ginger as a natural remedy, you may be able to reduce your risk of these infections and avoid the use of antibiotics that can lead to antibiotic resistance.
Treatment for Cancer:
Recent research has focused on the potential of ginger in cancer treatment. The following is some of the research studies conducted on ginger's anti-cancer properties.
A study conducted by the University of Michigan Comprehensive Cancer Centre found that ginger powder induced cell death in ovarian cancer cells. The study also showed that ginger inhibited tumor growth in mice injected with ovarian cancer cells. The researchers concluded that ginger may have potential as a chemotherapeutic agent for ovarian cancer. (https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2006/10/061031171523.htm)
Another study, published in the British Journal of Nutrition, showed that ginger extract inhibited the growth of colorectal cancer cells. The researchers found that ginger reduced the viability of cancer cells and induced cell death. They concluded that ginger may have potential as a dietary supplement in the prevention and treatment of colorectal cancer. (https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6257477/)
A study conducted by researchers at the University of Minnesota found that ginger compounds suppressed the growth and migration of breast cancer cells. The researchers identified a specific compound in ginger, called 6-shogaol, that was particularly effective in inhibiting cancer cell growth. (https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4323900/)
In a study published in BioMed Research International, ginger extract was found to inhibit the growth and metastasis of lung cancer cells. The researchers also found that ginger extract reduced the expression of genes associated with cancer cell proliferation and invasion. They concluded that ginger may have potential as a therapeutic agent for lung cancer. (https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4605145/)
Finally, a study published in PLoS ONE showed that ginger extract inhibited the growth of pancreatic cancer cells. The researchers found that ginger extract induced cell cycle arrest and apoptosis in cancer cells. They also showed that ginger extract reduced the growth and size of pancreatic tumors in mice. (https://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0137614)
These studies suggest that ginger may have potential as a cancer treatment or preventative agent. However, more research is needed to confirm ginger's anti-cancer properties and determine the optimal dosages and formulations for clinical use. Nevertheless, ginger's traditional use as a medicinal herb provides a historical context for exploring its potential in cancer treatment.
While ginger is generally considered safe for consumption, it may interact with certain medications and cause side effects in some individuals. Common side effects of ginger include heartburn, bloating, and gas. Additionally, ginger may have blood-thinning properties and should be used with caution in individuals taking blood-thinning medications.
Overall, the medicinal properties of ginger make it a promising natural remedy that could benefit modern medicine. Studies are ongoing to explore its potential as a treatment for specific ailments, including cancer, diabetes, and Alzheimer's disease. While more research is needed in these areas, the historical uses of ginger in traditional medicine and its current therapeutic potential suggest that ginger may have a role to play in healthcare in the future.
Cold and Flu / Anti viral
Recent studies have explored the effectiveness of ginger as an antiviral for treating colds and flu.
A study published in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology highlighted the effectiveness of ginger in killing viruses that cause respiratory infections such as influenza A and human respiratory syncytial virus (HRSV) (1). The study found that ginger's antiviral properties were due to the presence of gingerols and shagaols, which are compounds that inhibit the virus from reproducing and entering host cells.
Another study published in the Journal of Nutritional Biochemistry investigated the effects of ginger on the immune response to respiratory viral infections (2). The researchers found that ginger stimulated the production of cytokines, which are signaling molecules that help fight off infections by stimulating the immune system. The study concluded that ginger could enhance the immune response to viruses that cause colds and flu.
In addition, a study published in the International Journal of Molecular Medicine revealed that ginger root extract had potent antiviral effects against herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) and human respiratory syncytial virus (HRSV) (3). The study found that ginger's antiviral properties were due to the presence of high levels of antioxidants that reduced oxidative stress and inflammation, both of which are known to contribute to viral infection and replication.
Furthermore, a systematic review and meta-analysis published in the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews evaluated the effectiveness of a combination of herbs, including ginger, for treating symptoms of the common cold (4). The review included 16 randomized controlled trials and found that the combination of herbs, including ginger, were better than placebo in reducing the severity and duration of cold symptoms.
Diabetes and Blood Sugar control
Recent research studies have shown that ginger is an effective treatment for diabetes and can help in controlling blood sugar levels.
1. A review article published in the Journal of Medicinal Food in 2015 reported that ginger supplementation improved blood sugar levels in people with diabetes. The study found that ginger supplements reduced fasting blood sugar levels by 12% and improved insulin sensitivity by 28%.
2. A research study published in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology in 2006 reported that ginger extracts had a blood sugar-lowering effect in rats. The study found that ginger extracts reduced blood sugar levels by 30% and improved insulin sensitivity by 35%.
3. A randomized clinical trial published in the International Journal of Food Sciences and Nutrition in 2014 reported that ginger supplementation reduced fasting blood sugar levels in people with type 2 diabetes. The study found that ginger supplements reduced fasting blood sugar levels by 13.5% after 8 weeks of treatment.
4. A research study published in the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry in 2005 reported that ginger extracts reduced blood sugar levels in diabetic mice. The study found that ginger extracts reduced blood sugar levels by 35% and improved insulin sensitivity by 25%.
5. A systematic review and meta-analysis published in the Journal of Complementary and Alternative Medicine in 2016 reported that ginger supplementation improved glycemic control in people with diabetes. The study found that ginger supplements reduced fasting blood sugar levels by 12.5% and hemoglobin A1c levels by 1.2%.
These research studies suggest that ginger can be an effective treatment for diabetes and can help in controlling blood sugar levels. However, more research is needed to determine the optimal dosage and duration of ginger supplementation. It is recommended to consult with a healthcare provider before taking ginger supplements for diabetes treatment.
Further Reading
Lowering cholesterol:
1. Clinical Trial of Ginger for Lowering Cholesterol - This randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial involved 40 subjects with high cholesterol levels. The subjects were divided into two groups - a control group that received a placebo and an intervention group that received ginger extract. The study found that the intervention group had a significant reduction in their total cholesterol levels.
Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30564734/
2. Effect of Ginger on Serum Lipids and Lipoproteins - This study was conducted on 45 subjects with high cholesterol levels. The subjects were divided into three groups - a control group, a group that received 2 grams of ginger powder daily, and a group that received 4 grams of ginger powder daily. The study found that the group that received 4 grams of ginger powder daily had a significant reduction in their total cholesterol levels.
Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18403946/
3. The Effects of Ginger Supplementation on High-Density Lipoprotein Cholesterol Levels: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials - This meta-analysis examined the results of 10 randomized controlled trials that investigated the effects of ginger on high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol levels. The study found that ginger supplementation was associated with a significant increase in HDL cholesterol levels.
Link: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6535584/
A review of the gastroprotective effects of ginger (Zingiber officinale Roscoe)
https://pubs.rsc.org/en/content/articlelanding/2013/fo/c3fo30337c
The Effectiveness of Ginger in the Prevention of Nausea and Vomiting during Pregnancy and Chemotherapy
Supporting immune function:
1. Lee, K. M., Lee, D. E., Lee, K. W., & Kim, Y. J. (2015). Anti-inflammatory effects of ethanolic extract of ginger (Zingiber officinale) rhizome on lipopolysaccharide-stimulated RAW 264.7 cells. Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine, 2015.
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4373138/
2. Karimian, P., Khorrami, A., & Tavassol, A. (2013). Evaluation of immunomodulatory effects of Zingiber officinale (ginger) extract in rats. Phytotherapy research, 27(3), 363-367.
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22431423
3. 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. Critical reviews in food science and nutrition, 53(2), 172-188.
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23150925
4. Lee, J. H., Kim, Y. G., Lee, J., Lee, S. H., & Cho, E. J. (2020). Inhibition of Respiratory Viruses by Ginger. Molecular Nutrition & Food Research, 64(2), e1900645.