Potion or Poison? Ginger

Abstract

SUMMARY MESSAGE: Evidence to date supports effectiveness of ginger to prevent and reduce postoperative nausea and vomiting, and in some women with morning sickness. Despite anti-inflammatory activities in vitro, clinical evidence of efficacy in inflammatory joint conditions is lacking. Animal and in vitro studies suggest possible protective effects against obesity, diabetes, atherosclerosis and cancer. Safety and any predisposition to drug interactions are dose-related. Ginger appears safe when taken at doses of up to 4 or 6 g daily. Above this dosage adverse interactions may occur with antithrombotic drugs, metronidazole and possibly cyclosporine, although human studies are lacking. Different ginger products vary considerably in their pharmaceutical quality, and the implications of this for dosage, efficacy and safety should be considered.