Ginger

herb Verified

Specifically for Breast Cancer

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Why it works for Breast Cancer:

CINV relief (adjunct to antiemetics): Several randomized trials and evidence summaries suggest ginger can modestly reduce acute nausea when added to standard antiemetics around chemo days, though results are mixed across studies and benefit is not guaranteed. Authoritative summaries from NCCIH and MSKCC both characterize the evidence as inconclusive/mixed rather than definitive. academy.miloa.eu

Proposed mechanisms: Ginger’s main compounds (gingerols, shogaols) may influence gastrointestinal motility and central pathways (e.g., serotonergic) involved in nausea, which is consistent with trial benefits on nausea rather than disease control. MSKCC summarizes antiemetic activity; NCCIH notes uncertainty for chemo-related nausea. Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center

Not a cancer treatment: Laboratory studies show anti-proliferative/anti-invasive effects of ginger constituents in breast-cancer cell lines, but no human trials show tumor shrinkage or improved survival from ginger. Treat these lab findings as hypothesis-generating only. Europe PMC

How to use for Breast Cancer:

Capsules around chemo days (most studied):

A large multicenter RCT (n=744; ~70% breast-cancer patients) had participants take 0.5–1.0 g/day of ginger powder in capsules, divided into 3 × 250 mg capsules twice daily (total 6 capsules/day) for 6 days starting 3 days before chemotherapy; this reduced acute nausea versus placebo. academy.miloa.eu

General dosing range seen across trials/reviews: Many RCTs and systematic reviews evaluate ~0.5–1.5 g/day of standardized ginger preparations for several days around chemo; results vary, and some high-quality syntheses conclude effects are uncertain. MDPI

Practical tips & links

If you and your oncology team choose to try ginger:
Use a standardized capsule product so the dose is consistent (dietary and tea forms are often too variable for trial-like dosing). See MSKCC’s page on ginger for patient-friendly guidance and cautions. Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center
Start 3 days before chemo and continue through 2–3 days after, matching the RCT schedule above; aim for ~0.5–1.0 g/day unless your clinician suggests otherwise. academy.miloa.eu

Always clear it with your oncology team first—especially if you have surgery scheduled, a bleeding risk, gallstones, or take interacting medicines (see warnings below). Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center

Scientific Evidence for Breast Cancer:

Randomized controlled trials (CINV adjunct):

Ryan et al., 2012 (Supportive Care in Cancer): Multicenter, double-blind RCT (n=744) found 0.5–1.0 g/day ginger reduced acute chemo-day nausea versus placebo (all patients also received standard 5-HT3 antiemetics). Details include the 6-day regimen starting 3 days pre-chemo. academy.miloa.eu
Other RCTs/meta-analyses: Mixed results overall; some show benefit, others don’t. A 2022 Nutrients systematic review concluded effects on CINV could not be confirmed and called for larger, high-quality RCTs. The Oncology Nursing Society (ONS) 2025 evidence table summarizes trial quality and the mixed findings. MDPI+1

Authoritative summaries (what major bodies say):

NCCIH (updated Feb 2025): For chemo-related nausea, benefit is uncertain; emphasizes safety and interaction considerations. NCCIH
MSKCC About Herbs—Ginger: Notes possible prevention of CINV in some studies, mixed evidence overall, and key contraindications/interactions (bleeding risk, perioperative avoidance, etc.). Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center

Preclinical (not disease-control evidence in humans):

6-shogaol and related compounds show anti-invasive/anti-proliferative effects in breast-cancer cell lines (e.g., MDA-MB-231, MCF-7); these are lab studies only. Europe PMC

Specific Warnings for Breast Cancer:

Do not use ginger as a treatment for breast cancer. It has no proven tumor-control benefit in humans. Use only as a possible add-on for nausea with your care team’s approval. (NCCIH, MSKCC.) NCCIH

Bleeding risk / surgery: Ginger supplements can have antiplatelet effects. Avoid if you have a bleeding disorder, and stop 2 weeks before surgery; do not use immediately after surgery for nausea without medical guidance. Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center

Drug interactions: Caution with anticoagulants/antiplatelets (e.g., warfarin, aspirin, clopidogrel) and NSAIDs due to additive bleeding risk. MSKCC also flags possible effects with tacrolimus and glucose-lowering drugs (clinically uncertain but caution advised). Always discuss with your oncology/pharmacy team. Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center

Gallstones: May increase bile flow—avoid if you have gallstones unless your clinician approves. Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center

Pregnancy/lactation: Use only under clinician guidance; MSKCC advises avoiding supplements during pregnancy/lactation; NCCIH notes pregnancy use may be safe but you should consult your provider. Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center

Common side effects (usually mild): Heartburn, abdominal discomfort, diarrhea; rare case reports of bleeding when combined with blood thinners. Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center

Quality matters: Supplements aren’t pre-approved like medicines; potency and purity vary. Use reputable brands and coordinate with your oncology team. (NCCIH explains supplement regulation.) NCCIH

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General Information (All Ailments)

Note: You are viewing ailment-specific information above. This section shows the general remedy information for all conditions.

What It Is

Ginger is a flowering plant whose rhizome (underground stem), commonly called the ginger root, is widely used as both a spice and a medicinal ingredient. Native to Southeast Asia, it has been used in Ayurvedic, Chinese, and Middle Eastern traditional medicine for thousands of years. The bioactive compounds in ginger—especially gingerols, shogaols, and zingerone—are responsible for its distinctive aroma, pungent flavor, and therapeutic effects. It can be consumed fresh, dried, powdered, as an oil, or as a juice or extract.

How It Works

Ginger exerts its health effects through several biochemical and physiological mechanisms:

Anti-Inflammatory and Antioxidant Actions: Gingerols and shogaols inhibit pro-inflammatory molecules such as prostaglandins and cytokines, reducing oxidative stress and inflammation throughout the body.
Digestive Support: Ginger enhances gastric motility and stimulates digestive enzymes, helping relieve indigestion, nausea, and bloating. It’s especially well known for easing morning sickness, motion sickness, and nausea after surgery or chemotherapy.
Pain Relief and Circulation: Its anti-inflammatory properties may alleviate muscle soreness, joint pain (including from osteoarthritis), and menstrual cramps by reducing prostaglandin production.
Metabolic and Cardiovascular Support: Some studies suggest ginger may lower blood sugar, reduce cholesterol, and improve lipid metabolism, thereby supporting heart health. It can also enhance blood flow and exhibit mild anticoagulant effects.
Immune and Antimicrobial Activity: Ginger contains compounds with mild antibacterial, antiviral, and immune-modulating properties, which may help the body fight off infections and maintain immune balance.

Why It’s Important

Ginger is valued as a natural, accessible, and versatile remedy with a broad range of health benefits. It offers:

Natural symptom relief without synthetic additives, appealing to those seeking holistic or preventive care.
Support for digestive and metabolic health, which are key to overall well-being.
Potential long-term benefits for chronic inflammation, which underlies many diseases such as arthritis, diabetes, and cardiovascular disorders.
Cultural and traditional significance, with millennia of use across multiple healing systems confirming its safety and efficacy in moderation.

Considerations

While ginger is generally safe, there are important factors to keep in mind:

Dosage and Form: Typical safe amounts are up to 4 grams per day of fresh or dried ginger. Excessive intake can lead to heartburn, stomach irritation, or diarrhea.
Pregnancy: Small amounts can relieve morning sickness, but high doses should be avoided during late pregnancy due to potential uterine-stimulating effects.
Medication Interactions: Ginger can interact with anticoagulants (like warfarin), antiplatelet drugs, and antidiabetic medications, potentially enhancing their effects and increasing bleeding or hypoglycemia risk.
Individual Sensitivity: People with gallstones, bleeding disorders, or acid reflux should consult a healthcare professional before regular use.
Supplement Quality: As with many herbal supplements, product purity and potency vary; it’s best to choose standardized, reputable brands.

Helps with these conditions

Ginger is most effective for conditions with strong anti-inflammatory components . The effectiveness varies by condition based on clinical evidence and user experiences.

Acid Reflux (GERD) 100% effective

Stomach Ulcers 0% effective

Flu 0% effective

COVID-19 0% effective

Arthritis 0% effective

Back Pain 0% effective

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Acid Reflux (GERD)

100% effective

Ginger is often considered helpful for managing acid reflux (GERD) because of its natural digestive and anti-inflammatory properties. Here’s why it ca...

1 vote Updated 4 weeks ago 14 studies cited

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