Ginger

What is it?

The ginger plant is often used as flavoring and also spices. It is also been used as an herbal traditional remedy. Ginger comes in slices used in cooking, tea form and sometimes tablet form.

Benefits

There has been evidence that ginger helps in relief pain for osteoarthritis, headache, dysmenorrhea ( painful menses) and muscle joint pain. It might also help with nausea associated with vertigo, motion sickness and chemotherapy drugs. Certain laboratory non-human trial studies suggest ginger may help stomach upset, lower cholesterol, sugar, Alzheimer disease and reduce swelling.

Possible side effects

Ginger is generally safe for most people but there are some possible side effects include heartburn, bloatedness, stomach upset and mouth irritation.

It is not recommended for lactating/pregnant women as very high doses may increase risk of miscarriages.

If you have bleeding disorders, avoid ginger as it increases bleeding tendencies.

Diabetic patients should monitor their sugar level as ginger will reduce blood sugar levels.

Drug-drug interactions

1.         Diabetic and hypertension medications: Ginger will lower sugar levels and reduce blood pressure hence it should be taken with caution for patients with diabetes and hypertension.

2.         Anti-coagulants & anti-platelets: Ginger will increase tendency to bleed when used with anti-coagulants and anti-platelet medications.

Dosage

There is currently no scientific guidelines on the dosage. Please follow the instructions on product label and if in doubt consult your doctor first.

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