Ginger

herb Verified

Specifically for Flu

0% effective

0 votes
0 up • 0 down

Why it works for Flu:

Antiviral Properties: Ginger contains compounds like [6]-gingerol and gingerenone A that have demonstrated direct antiviral activity against influenza viruses, with studies showing ginger can inhibit viral neuraminidase activity and reduce virus load in infected mice PubMed Central ScienceDirect.

Anti-inflammatory Effects: Ginger's anti-inflammatory properties are associated with decreased IκBα degradation and impaired nuclear factor κB (NF-κB) nuclear translocation, helping to reduce inflammation associated with flu symptoms NCBI NCBI.

Immune System Support: Fresh ginger can stimulate mucosal cells to secrete IFN-β (interferon-beta), which contributes to counteracting viral infection Fresh ginger (Zingiber officinale) has anti-viral activity against human respiratory syncytial virus in human respiratory tract cell lines - PubMed.

Antioxidant Activity: Ginger provides antioxidant properties that help eliminate free radicals and support recovery from illnesses like flu Ginger Root - StatPearls - NCBI Bookshelf.

How to use for Flu:

Dosage Recommendations: The recommended daily intake of ginger varies, but 1-2 grams of fresh ginger per day is generally considered safe, with some sources suggesting 1-2 grams during illness Number Analytics Number Analytics.

Preparation Methods:

Ginger Tea: Slice or grate fresh ginger, boil water and add the ginger, let it steep for 5-10 minutes, strain and drink. You can add honey or lemon to taste Ginger's Healing Power: Cold & Flu Treatment.
Ginger Honey: Take a teaspoon of ginger honey each day during cold and flu season and increase it to 2-3 teaspoons each day at the onset of a cold. Mix a teaspoon into hot water to make a soothing tea How to Make Ginger Honey to Fight Colds and Flu - Mary's Nest.
Other Forms: Raw ginger (chewing small pieces), ginger capsules or supplements, adding ginger to soups and stews, or ginger-infused water Ginger's Healing Power: Cold & Flu Treatment.

Timing: Fresh ginger is more effective when given before viral exposure, particularly for respiratory symptoms Fresh ginger (Zingiber officinale) has anti-viral activity against human respiratory syncytial virus in human respiratory tract cell lines - PubMed.

Scientific Evidence for Flu:

Influenza Studies: [6]-Gingerol significantly reduced in vitro infection by H1N1 influenza virus, with an IC50 value of 2.25±0.18 μM, and inhibited over 75% of viral neuraminidase activity at 2 μM concentration Effect of [6]-gingerol on viral neuraminidase and hemagglutinin-specific T cell immunity in severe influenza - ScienceDirect.

Respiratory Virus Research: Fresh ginger dose-dependently inhibited HRSV-induced plaque formation in respiratory tract cell lines, reducing plaque counts to 19.7% (A549) and 27.0% (HEp-2) compared to control groups Fresh ginger (Zingiber officinale) has anti-viral activity against human respiratory syncytial virus in human respiratory tract cell lines - PubMed.

Gingerenone A Studies: Gingerenone A treatment suppressed influenza A virus replication in the lungs of infected mice, alleviated body weight loss, and prolonged survival by inhibiting JAK2 activity In Vitro and In Vivo Antiviral Activity of Gingerenone A on Influenza A Virus Is Mediated by Targeting Janus Kinase 2 - PMC.

Important Note: Many people use ginger to help recover from a cold or the flu. However, the evidence supporting this use is mostly anecdotal, and more research is needed to fully understand ginger's effectiveness Ginger: Benefits, nutrition, and uses.

Specific Warnings for Flu:

Drug Interactions: 83 medications are known to interact with ginger, including major interactions with blood thinners like warfarin, aspirin, and anticoagulants, which can increase bleeding risk Drugs.com Drugs.com.

Specific Contraindications:

Bleeding disorders: Ginger might increase bleeding risk Ginger: Health Benefits, Side Effects, Uses, Dose & Precautions
Diabetes: Ginger might increase insulin levels and/or lower blood sugar, requiring medication adjustments Ginger: Health Benefits, Side Effects, Uses, Dose & Precautions
Heart conditions: High doses of ginger might worsen some heart conditions Ginger: Health Benefits, Side Effects, Uses, Dose & Precautions
Gallstones: Ginger can increase bile production, which might be harmful for people with gallbladder issues Who should avoid ginger? Interactions with medications

Side Effects: Ginger can cause mild side effects including heartburn, diarrhea, burping, and general stomach discomfort. Taking higher doses of 5 grams daily increases the risk for side effects WebMD NCBI.

Special Populations:

Pregnancy: This product should be used only when clearly needed during pregnancy Ginger Root Oral: Uses, Side Effects, Interactions, Pictures, Warnings & Dosing - WebMD
Honey should never be given to infants under the age of one How to Make Ginger Honey to Fight Colds and Flu - Mary's Nest
Surgery: It's usually advised to avoid ginger at least two weeks before any scheduled surgery to prevent excessive bleeding Who should avoid ginger? Interactions with medications

Back to Flu

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

Conditions

Total Votes

181

Studies

100%

Avg. Effectiveness

Detailed Information by Condition

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

Browse by Category

Navigation

Account

Listening...