Respiratory: Cold symptoms; sinusitis, allergy, may help shortness of breath secondary to  infection, and asthma (may slightly increase quality of life but not lung function in asthma)

Cardiovascular: Hypertension; possibly preventive in cardiovascular disease

Gastrointestinal: Especially known for stomach ailments: anti-nausea, diarrhea, vomiting (German Commission E); alcohol-related hepatic diseases, heartburn, indigestion, stomach ache, bacterial diarrhea, IBS, protection against ulcers, supports the digestive process, nausea and/or stomach discomfort secondary to other conditions (chemotherapy, postsurgery, motion sickness, coming off SSRIs and others)

Genitourinary: Decreases menstrual cramps, inflamed testicles

Musculoskeletal: Inflammation, swelling, pain, rheumatoid and osteoarthritis, gout, laxative, low back pain

Neurologic: Migraines; improves cognitive function in middle-aged women; improves condition in stroke and brain damage, helps prevent Alzheimer's, vertigo, and motion sickness, possibly improved memory

Skin: Athlete's foot, jock itch, baldness

Glucose: May help control glucose

Cholesterol: Reportedly decreases LDL and increases HDL

Infectious Disease: Malaria, cholera

Cancer: Possibly anticancer

Other: May prevent blood clotting, dizziness, and possibly weight loss, a diuretic

                                                      *   *   *

SIDE EFFECTS: Rash (topical application), increased bruising and/or bleeding (including menses), oral irritation, abdominal discomfort, gas, bloating, heartburn, diarrhea, cardiac arrhythmia (overdose), increased bleeding, central nervous system depression (overdose), anaphylaxis

CAUTION/CONTRAINDICATIONS: Diabetic medications, sugar-lowering herbs and supplements, blood thinners, clotting disorders, high blood pressure, heart conditions. May interact with other medications including some chemotherapy medications: It can affect their metabolism (See CYP3A4)

FORMS: Fresh ginger, oils, capsules, extract, gummies, tincture, lozenges, root, gels and ointments, tea, powder, tablets

Recommended Brands

• CVS Health® Ginger Root 550 mg (available at CVS)

• Mountain Rose Herbs Ginger Root 484 mg ginger root powder (large capsule)

• Puritan's Pride® Ginger Relief® Ginger Root 550 mg ginger root powder (in capsule) — available at CVS, Walmart, and Target

• Spring Valley™ Ginger Root 550 mg powder (Walmart product)

• Frontier® Co‑op Ginger (spice) 1000 mg ginger root powder 

• Great Value® Organic Ground Ginger 1000 mg spice powder (Walmart product)

• The Spice Hunter® Organic Ginger 1000 mg spice powder 

Note: I partner only with reputable, high‑quality affiliate herbal and supplement brands to bring you products that meet standards for safety, effectiveness, and transparency. I do the research so you can shop with confidence. While you can buy these directly from companies, I use Amazon as an affiliate. When you click on the Fullscripts, Life Extension or Nature Made links to make a purchase, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you — a simple way to support this free website and its mission. Many products also offer helpful reviews, discounts, and expedited delivery.

Dosage

As directed on the product label.

Some clinical and consumer sources describe a wide range of herbal amounts, and many are not supported by strong evidence. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions.

Traditional herbal practices describe the use of ginger in capsule, powder, tea, or food‑based forms. Modern commercial products vary widely in strength and formulation, so traditional amounts may not apply to current products. Many people use ginger for digestive comfort, nausea, inflammation support, or general wellness, but evidence varies and product strengths differ significantly.

Some consumer health sites, including RxList, describe various regimens used in research studies for conditions such as dysmenorrhea, osteoarthritis, and others. These reflect study protocols rather than standardized clinical recommendations.

For detailed drug dosing and interaction information, refer to herbal dosing on the Epocrates website.

Traditional Use (General Information Only)

Ginger has been used traditionally for digestive comfort, nausea, circulation support, seasonal wellness, and general vitality. Traditional practices describe a variety of forms, including teas, powders, capsules, and culinary use. These uses are based on historical and consumer experience rather than strong clinical evidence.

These reflect traditional and consumer uses, not evidence‑based medical treatments. Product formulations vary, so it is important to follow the manufacturer’s directions.

*Disclaimer: The material above is for informational purposes only. This information is not intended to diagnose, treat or cure a condition. The uses listed above are tentative; some have or are undergoing research trials, but many are not FDA-approved. It is essential that you investigate these supplements further before deciding to use them. Check interactions and contraindications on sites like Drugs.com or WebMD. Do not attempt to treat a serious condition like liver, kidney problems, high blood pressure, heart, cancer, diabetes, or thyroid issues without discussing it with a healthcare provider first. If you are pregnant, do not use supplements without discussing it with your healthcare provider.