Ginger

herb Verified

Specifically for Tendonitis

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Why it works for Tendonitis:

Anti-inflammatory and analgesic mechanisms. Gingerols and shogaols (ginger’s main actives) can inhibit enzymes in the prostaglandin/leukotriene pathways (e.g., COX-2 and 5-LOX) and modulate NF-κB/MAPK signaling—mechanisms relevant to pain and inflammation. Evidence comes from in-vitro and animal work and reviews identifying COX-2–active compounds such as 10-gingerol and 10-shogaol. Europe PMC
Systemic anti-inflammatory signal in humans. A meta-analysis of randomized trials found that oral ginger lowered inflammatory markers like CRP/hs-CRP and TNF-α. ScienceDirect
Important context for tendonitis. Most chronic tendinopathies (e.g., Achilles) are now considered degenerative (failed healing) rather than primarily inflammatory—so while ginger may help pain for some, it does not address the main driver of chronic tendon problems (load management and tendon remodeling do). SpringerLink

Ginger has biologically plausible anti-inflammatory/analgesic effects and human data for pain in other conditions, but tendonitis itself isn’t strongly inflammatory. Think of ginger—if you choose to use it—as an adjunct to cornerstone care (graded loading/rehab), not a stand-alone fix. SpringerLink

How to use for Tendonitis:

1) Oral ginger (capsules/powder)

Typical trial-level intakes for musculoskeletal pain (esp. knee OA) are ~0.5–2 g/day of standardized extract or dried powder, divided with meals. Do not exceed 4 g/day total from all sources. Start low (e.g., 250–500 mg with food, 2–3×/day) and assess tolerance. Arthritis Foundation
If you prefer food-based: 1–2 g/day grated fresh ginger in cooking or tea is a reasonable, conservative intake (still count toward the 4 g/day cap). Arthritis Foundation

2) Ginger tea (gentle option)

Simmer 1–2 g freshly sliced root in hot water 5–10 minutes; sip up to 2–3 cups/day within the 4 g/day total cap. (Use this primarily for comfort; clinical evidence is limited.) Arthritis Foundation

3) Topical ginger (compress/patch)

Evidence for topical ginger is weak and mixed. Some small studies/pilots in osteoarthritis report symptom relief from ginger compresses/patches, but NIH’s NCCIH notes topical ginger has not been shown helpful for knee OA in better-quality research. If you try it, treat as experimental. AnthroMed
If attempting a compress: soak a cloth in warm ginger infusion (fresh slices simmered), wring lightly, apply 10–20 min over the muscle belly near the tendon (not directly over irritated insertion if it aggravates symptoms), stop if skin irritation occurs. (Protocol adapted from OA studies—again, evidence is limited.) AnthroMed

Scientific Evidence for Tendonitis:

For tendonitis specifically: There are no randomized clinical trials showing ginger improves outcomes in Achilles/patellar or other tendinopathies. Current high-quality care centers on exercise-based loading, sometimes with adjuncts like shockwave or injections depending on the case. SpringerLink

For pain in related conditions:

Knee osteoarthritis: Multiple RCTs and meta-analyses suggest oral ginger offers modest pain relief vs placebo; effects are small and study quality varies. ScienceDirect
Systemic inflammation: RCT meta-analysis shows reduced CRP/TNF-α with ginger versus control. ScienceDirect
Topical in OA: Small, short-term trials/series report benefit, but overall evidence is low quality and NIH rates topical ginger for knee OA as not helpful. AnthroMed

Evidence supports ginger for some pain states (OA, menstrual pain, DOMS), but not for tendonitis. Use only as an adjunct if you personally find it helps symptoms, while prioritizing a progressive loading program. SpringerLink

Specific Warnings for Tendonitis:

Common side effects: Heartburn, GI upset/diarrhea, mouth/throat irritation—more likely at higher doses. Take with food and split doses. NCCIH

Anticoagulants/bleeding risk: Ginger may potentiate bleeding (case reports and interaction listings). Discuss with your clinician if you take warfarin/DOACs, aspirin, clopidogrel, or have a bleeding disorder. Stop before procedures if your surgeon advises. Drugs.com

Gallstones/biliary disease: Supplements may increase bile flow—avoid unless cleared by your clinician. Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center

Pregnancy/lactation: Oral ginger can be used for nausea in pregnancy in some studies, but supplement use should be discussed with your clinician; safety in breastfeeding is unclear. NCCIH

Allergies/skin irritation: Topical products can irritate; discontinue if redness/burning develops. (General safety note.) NCCIH

Quality matters: Choose third-party–tested supplements; regulations for dietary supplements are less strict than for drugs. NCCIH

Back to Tendonitis

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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