Ginger

In addition to its long history of use as a spice, references to ginger as a medicinal agent can be found in ancient Chinese, Indian, Arabic, and Greco-Roman texts. Ginger has been used for a variety of conditions, but it is chiefly known as an antinausea, anti-inflammatory, digestive aid, diaphoretic (induces perspiration), and warming agent. Numerous studies have shown it is an effective at reducing nausea and vomiting with pregnancy. A smaller number of studies have looked at its possible role in alleviating chemotherapy-induced nausea. Ginger may also improve appetite in people with loss of appetite and cancer cachexia, a wasting syndrome associated with significant loss of muscle and weight.

Ginger may also contribute to a reduced risk of cancer because it has anti-inflammatory and direct anti-cancer actions in a variety of cancer types.

It is important to note that in the marketplace, many ginger products contain concentrated ginger extracts, which can worsen nausea and vomiting. Dried ginger root/rhizome at doses of 1000 mg per day are most likely to offer benefit. Ginger tea may also be used as tolerated.