Does ginger help with inflammation and nausea?

Ginger contains active compounds such as 6-gingerol and 6-shogaol. In cell and animal studies, these compounds inhibit well-known pro-inflammatory signalling molecules. That is a biologically plausible mechanism, but what works in the lab does not necessarily mean anything for humans.

In humans there are some early positive signals. Small studies and review studies in people with arthritis and psoriasis show encouraging indications. However, large, well-designed clinical studies are largely lacking. It is therefore too early to say that ginger demonstrably works as an anti-inflammatory treatment.

Research is also being conducted into small particles derived from edible ginger, known as ginger-derived nanoparticles. In mouse studies of intestinal inflammation, these particles reduced inflammatory substances and helped restore the intestinal wall. This has so far only been demonstrated in animals. Whether this also works in humans is unknown.

For gout and lupus there are likewise early indications, but the data come from first-phase research without large clinical trials. The evidence is too weak to act on.

Regarding nausea during chemotherapy or after a caesarean section, the available studies mention ginger only in passing as a possible non-pharmacological option. No concrete effect or comparison with a placebo is reported. On the basis of these sources, it cannot be firmly stated that ginger helps with nausea. Caution is advised when using ginger as a supplement at higher doses or in combination with blood-thinning medications. If in doubt, consult a doctor or pharmacist.