Ginger
Zingiber officinale
Key Facts
Overview
Ginger is grown for its rhizome, an underground stem used as a spice. Studies of health effects usually test supplements rather than food. [1] [2]
Traditional Uses
Ginger has a long history of use for digestive discomfort. Historical use alone does not establish effectiveness. [1]
Preparation Matters
The evidence summarized here concerns ginger preparations, usually supplements. It does not establish equivalent effects from cooking with ginger or from isolated compounds. [1]
What the Evidence Says
Ginger may help pregnancy-related nausea and vomiting. Most motion-sickness studies have not found benefit. Its usefulness alongside chemotherapy or after surgery remains uncertain. Research on knee osteoarthritis is often low quality. [1]
Safety & Side Effects
Oral ginger can cause stomach discomfort, heartburn, diarrhea, and mouth or throat irritation. Discuss supplement use with a clinician if you take medicines or are pregnant; safety during breastfeeding is not well established. [1]
When to See a Doctor
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:
- Severe allergic reactions (difficulty breathing, swelling of face or throat, severe rash)
- Chest pain or irregular heartbeat
- Severe digestive issues (persistent vomiting, bloody stools)
- Severe headache or dizziness
- Any symptoms that worsen or do not improve
Always consult a healthcare professional before using herbal supplements if you:
- Are pregnant, nursing, or planning to become pregnant
- Are taking prescription medications
- Have a chronic health condition
- Are scheduled for surgery
- Are giving herbs to children
Growing Notes
Grow in organically rich soil with partial shade. Containers can be brought indoors before temperatures fall below 50°F (10°C). Cold, wet conditions can cause rhizome rot. [2]
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Ginger used for?
Ginger may help pregnancy-related nausea and vomiting. Most motion-sickness studies have not found benefit. Its usefulness alongside chemotherapy or after surgery remains uncertain. Research on knee osteoarthritis is often low quality. [1]
Is Ginger safe?
Oral ginger can cause stomach discomfort, heartburn, diarrhea, and mouth or throat irritation. Discuss supplement use with a clinician if you take medicines or are pregnant; safety during breastfeeding is not well established. [1]
Why does preparation matter for Ginger?
The evidence summarized here concerns ginger preparations, usually supplements. It does not establish equivalent effects from cooking with ginger or from isolated compounds. [1]
What is the scientific name of Ginger?
The scientific name of Ginger is Zingiber officinale. [2]
What are the traditional uses of Ginger?
Ginger has a long history of use for digestive discomfort. Historical use alone does not establish effectiveness. [1]
When should I see a doctor when using Ginger?
Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using Ginger or any herbal supplement, especially if you are pregnant, nursing, taking prescription medications, have a chronic health condition, or are scheduled for surgery. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience severe allergic reactions, chest pain, irregular heartbeat, severe digestive issues, or any symptoms that worsen or do not improve. This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice.
Sources and Further Reading
Numbered links identify sources for each section. This is a focused educational summary, not a systematic review or an endorsement by the source organizations.
- Ginger: Usefulness and Safety — NIH — National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health. Accessed 2026-10-26.
- Zingiber officinale — Extension Gardener Plant Toolbox — NC State Extension. Accessed 2026-10-26.