Ginger can prevent stomach upset (nausea) from many sources

Ginger is the common name for a plant that was originally cultivated in China, and then spread to India and other tropical areas.  The term is also used to describe the edible part of the plant which is commonly used as a spice in cooking throughout the world. Often referred to as ginger “root”, the edible section is actually a rhizome.

Ginger is an Indian remedy that can work for you.  It can prevent stomach upset from motion sickness, morning sickness during pregnancy, and chemotherapy.

It is a powerful antioxidant that works by blocking the effects of serotonin, a chemical produced by both the brain and stomach when you’re nauseated.  It can also stop the production of free radicals, another possible cause of an upset stomach.

How does ginger compare to Dramamine?

In a study of cruise ship passengers traveling on rough seas, 500 mg of ginger every 4 hours was as effective as Dramamine, the commonly used OTC motion-sickness medication.  In another study, where subjects took 940 mg, it was more effective than the drug.

It might also decrease blood pressure, arthritis pain, and cancer risk
Ginger helps regulate blood flow which may lower blood pressure, and its anti-inflammatory properties might help ease arthritis.  Ginger extract had a significant effect on reducing pain in 124 patients with osteoarthritis of the knee in a study at the Miami Veterans Hospital.

Here’s a big surprise.  At the U of MI Comprehensive Cancer Center, tests done in the lab showed that ginger may have significant therapeutic benefit for ovarian cancer patients.

Maximize the benefits
You can buy fresh ginger root in a grocery store.  If you do so grate fresh ginger into soups and stews.  Preserve remainder by storing in dry sherry in the refrigerator.

If you buy dried ginger in capsule form, for nausea ginger is best taken before symptoms start.  A recommended level is 500 to 1,000 mg of dried ginger every 4 hours, up to a maximum of 4 grams daily.

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