Historically, it has been used to reduce menstrual cramps, treat seasickness and food poisoning, and eliminate body odor. It is now one of the most popular herbal remedies for nausea, morning sickness and digestive problems. The extract can help the digestive process by breaking down proteins, and it alleviates nausea and morning sickness by relaxing stomach muscles, and pregnant women can use it safely.

In addition to its popularity as a stomach aid, the extract has also been shown to improve circulation by relaxing muscles around blood vessels. It can also reduce high levels of LDL cholesterol by helping to remove it from the blood, as well as by preventing the body from absorbing it.

It may help lower blood pressure as well. It is known to contain vasodilators, ACE inhibitors and diuretics, all of which are useful agents in reducing blood pressure and keeping the circulatory system healthy. Blood clots may also be prevented with supplements, which contain substances that stop the aggregation of blood platelets that form clots.

Ginger root extract has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties as well. As an antioxidant, it may help boost immunity and relieve the symptoms of colds and flu. Its anti-inflammatory properties make it useful in treating pain and inflammation caused by arthritis, and it is effective in treating muscle pain as well.

Supplements are available in powders, capsules, tablets and liquids. Also, the whole root can be used medicinally, and it can be made into a tea. For maximum effectiveness, it is best to use supplements that contain standardized extracts of the root. The product should be standardized for substances known as gingerols, the active ingredient. Herbalists and nutritionists usually recommend products that contain 5% gingerols.

To treat digestive problems and inflammation, take 100-200 mg capsules or tablets. If a fresh powdered is used, 1-2 g is a good daily dose. 

Ginger teas and ale are used to help treat stomach upset and nausea. Some health food manufacturers produce a natural ale, which contains about 1 gram of ginger per serving and may be the best choice for people who want their intake to come from liquids.

Very few side effects have been reported. In rare cases, very high doses may cause stomach irritation. To minimize this effect, it can be taken with food. Because it is a  blood thinner, people who are taking anticoagulant medications should not use it without consulting a doctor.

In 2009, it was reported that Ginger also seemed to help stop nausea from chemotherapy treatment - one of the most common side effects of the cancer treatment. This study was the first large scale research done on the plant. People who started taking Ginger capsules several days before a chemo treatment had fewer, and less severe side effects from nausea.

GINGER ROOT - IN STOCK

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