Taxonomic Class

Zingiberaceae

Common Trade Names

Multi-ingredient preparations: Cayenne Ginger, Gingerall, Ginger Ease, Ginger Peppermint Combo, Ginger Power, Ginger Root Alcohol Free, Ginger Trips, Low Alcohol Misty Ginger Blend

Common Forms

Capsules, liquid, powder: 100 mg, 465 mg

Extract: 250 mg

Root: 530 mg

Tablets (chewable): 67.5 mg Also available as teas.

Source

Ginger (Zingiber officinale) is a perennial that grows in India, Jamaica, and China. The plant produces green-purple flowers that resemble orchids. The rhizome (root) is found underground and usually the most valued part of the plant.

Chemical Components

The root contains both volatile and nonvolatile compounds. The nonvolatile constituents, which include the gingerols and gingerol-like compounds, are thought to be responsible for ginger’s flavor, aromatic properties, and any pharmacologic activity. The volatile oil contains zingiberol, zingeberene, curcumene, farnesene, bis-abolene, sesquiphellandrene, and several monoterpenes (linalool, borneol, neral, geraniol, and others). Other compounds present are zingibain (a proteolytic enzyme), oleoresins, fats, waxes, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals.

Actions

Human studies have shown that ginger inhibits platelet aggregation induced by adenosine diphosphate and epinephrine . Other studies have demonstrated a lack of effects on platelet aggregation . Ginger extracts have documented anti-inflammatory effects in rodent models . Specific components of ginger produce varying CV effects. Methanolic extracts of ginger have shown positive inotropic effects in a guinea pig model.

Other studies in animals have suggested that components in ginger may be gastroprotective against various chemical insults and stressors. The GI protective action is postulated to be promoted by increased mucosal resistance and potentiation of the defensive mechanism against chemicals or alterations in prostaglandins, providing more protective effects. A study of acetone extracts in mice found them to have similar stimulatory effects on GI motility as those seen with metoclopramide and domperidone .

Reported Uses

Claims for ginger include its use as an antiemetic, an anti-inflammatory useful for arthritis treatment, an antioxidant, an antitumorigenic drug, a CV stimulant, and a GI protectant and as a therapy for microbial and parasitic infestations.

The antiemetic effects of ginger have been extensively studied in humans for morning, motion, and sea sickness and for postoperative nausea and vomiting; most findings provided support for this action. Doses and duration of therapy varied considerably with each study. The antiemetic properties of ginger probably result from local effects on the GI tract rather than the CNS. Increased gastric peristalsis has been shown in animals, but any mechanism in humans is considered speculative.

Ginger has provided relief from pain and swelling in patients with muscle discomfort, osteoarthritis, or rheumatoid arthritis . A proposed mechanism is that it inhibits prostaglandin, thromboxane, and leukotriene biosynthesis.

Dosage

Dosage forms and strength vary with each disease state. As an antiemetic, studies used 500 to 1,000 mg of powdered ginger P.O., or 1,000 mg of fresh ginger root P.O.

Adverse Reactions

CNS: CNS depression (with overdose).

CV: arrhythmias (with overdose).

GI: heartburn.

Interactions

Anticoagulants: Increased risk of bleeding. Avoid administration with ginger.

Contraindications And Precautions

Ginger is contraindicated in pregnant patients; effects are unknown. Some components of ginger have been determined to be mutagenic, whereas others appear to exert an antimutagenic effect. The net effect of these components is unknown . Use only under medical supervision in patients receiving anticoagulants because it may affect bleeding time by inhibiting platelet function.

Special Considerations

Advise women to avoid excessive use of ginger during pregnancy.

Instruct the patient to watch for signs of bleeding when taking ginger.

No consensus exists with respect to dosing and monitoring.

Commentary

Although some data support the use of ginger as an antiemetic in humans, results from several trials have conflicted. Recommendation of ginger for use as an antiemetic, an anti-inflammatory, or a gastroprotective agent, before long-term, controlled, pharmacologic studies of its constituents have been conducted, is premature. Pregnant women should probably avoid excessive consumption of ginger until the effects of all its constituents are understood.

By: Robert Baird

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Before the advent of modern medicine as we know it many cultures developed natural medicines called herbs. These cures usually came from plants and other natural substances which today can often be found in the kitchen.

Ayurvedic Medicine is a tradition of treating people holistically that has a history of treating disease and preventing illness through herbs and even some of your every day spices found in the kitchen.

A number of Indian plants or herbs and spices have found their way into the United States. Ginger, Gotu Kola, Gymnema, Cinnamon, Boswellia or Frankincense and East Indian Globe Thistle are just a few of the Indian herbs that can be found in your local herbalist store or even at the grocery store.

Ginger

used as a digestive aid this spice has been recommended to cure gas, colic and even decrease heart burn. It is also known as a tonic to increase vigor and as an anti-depressant. In India this herb is also known as Sunthi or Adrak

Gotu Kola

Listed as a common herb in India this herb should not be confused with Kola Nut which is a different plant. In Ayurvedic herbalism this plant has many uses including wound healing, skin disorders, sedative effects and even seems promising as a blood pressure lowering herb.

Gymnema

Gymnema Sylvestre or Gurmar has received a lot of press because it appears to block sugars. The first noticeable effect when a small amount is placed on the tongue is that the person stops being able to taste sweets. The theory is that it has a similar blocking effect internally. The actual effect may be that because you don’t “taste” the sugar it doesn’t trigger that “sweet tooth effect”. When used with diabetics a decrease in blood sugar and insulin levels was noted with this Indian herb.

Cinnamon

In addition to being a key ingredient in mom’s cinnamon rolls this spice has been used as a stimulant for hundreds of years by the Ayurvedic Herbalist. It is used commonly to alleviate tooth ache, rheumatism and as an astringent. The essential oil seems to have marked anti-bacterial and anti-fungal properties also.

Boswellia

Also known as Frankincense this gummy residue is used externally for its anti-inflammatory properties and as an expectorant and immune system booster when taken internally. This tree is native to India and the Middle East.

East India Globe Thistle

considered a tonic or energizer this herb also seems to have anti-diabetic qualities and may be found in compounds that promote anti-oxidant effects or that reduce blood sugar.

The list of Ayurvedic herbs is much longer than just these few. It is noteworthy that many of these herbs are also spices or foods such as apricot or licorice. The Ayurvedic tradition promotes the belief that food plays an important role in curing disease and promoting wellness. The precept that “we are what we eat” is not a new one it seems.

Taking herbs in place of medications is not without some risk. Many herbs contain potent substances which can create side effects as well as interactions with medications.

A common example is ginseng. Ginseng interacts with coumadin (a common blood thinner) and causes your blood to become even thinner.

Anytime you are considering taking an herb or supplement you should research the effects and side effects and as always if you are taking medications you should consult with your doctor before starting any herb or supplement.



By: Ben Tiew

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The Ayurvedic Oil Massage is carried out with warm oil and is a great way of recharging and rejuvenating the mind and body.

The “Abhyanga” (Ayurvedic Oil Massage) is an integral part of any daily routine recommended by the Ayurveda Healing System to bring a person overall health and well-being.

A full body oil massage, when carried out on a daily basis, will nourish and pacify the Vata and Kapha as well as relieving fatigue, providing us with stamina, pleasure and perfect sleep it also enhances an persons complexion and the luster of their skin, will promote longevity in a person and nourishes all parts of a persons body.

Below are provided some of the benefits that a person can expect from having an Ayurvedic Massage daily.

1. There is increased circulation around the body especially to the body’s nerve endings.

2. Increased toning of the body’s muscles and the whole physiology.

3. Nerves become calmed.

4. Joints become lubricated.

5. A person’s mental alertness is increased.

6. There is an improvement where elimination of impurities from the body is concerned.

7. A person finds that their skin becomes smoother and softer.

8. People who have Ayurvedic Massage on a daily basis will find that their levels of stamina are increased throughout the day.

9. Many people find that they sleep better and deeper at night.

Normally an Ayurvedic Massage is performed in the morning before you have a bath or shower. Either cured sesame oil, herbalized massage oil or aroma massage oil can be used to carry out an Ayurvedic Massage.

An Ayurvedic Massage is done using comfortably warm massage oil and then the finger tips are dipped into the warm oil before it is applied lightly to the entire body. You will then need to wait for 4-5 minutes which allows some of the oil to be absorbed by the skin. You then begin to massage the entire body remembering to apply even pressure with the whole hand (palm and fingers). You should however apply lighter pressure on sensitive areas such as around the abdomen and heart. Also when working on the nerve ending you should use more oil and spend more time massaging them. These areas where you should concentrate more with regard to nerve endings are the soles of the feet, palms of the hands along the based of each fingernail. Whilst you should use circular motions around the rounded areas of the body such as your head or joints, whilst straight strokes should be used on the straight areas of the body such as the arms and legs. Once you have completed the massage relax for 10-15 minutes allowing the oil and massage to work its magic on you then follow it with a relaxing warm bath or shower.

However if your lifestyle does not allow for a daily massage then try to arrange to have one at least 3 to 4 times a week instead. You will soon find just how wonderful an Ayurvedic Massage is for you.



By: Lee Dobbins

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The wisdom of Ayurveda goes well beyond disease prevention. Ayurveda beauty relies on freeing the body from toxins, restoring cellular balance, facilitating complete elimination and re-establishing the balance of the doshas (or mind/body types).

Ayurvedic beauty includes two things – diet and lifestyle. These two things help you achieve the way you look and feel.

Ayurveda considers beauty as an intimate part of the human personality.

But before you can apply ayurvedic principles to make you look good day after day and year after year you first need to figure out which of the following three categories your skin falls into:

- If your skin is dry, thin and sensitive, susceptible to dullness and wrinkles, you have Vata type skin.

- If your skin is more reddish, warm, and extremely sensitive, prone to breakouts and easily affected by the foods you eat, heat and sun you have Pitta skin.

- Kapha skin tends to be lustrous, oily and thick in texture. It’s prone to clogged pores, breakouts and toxic buildup.

Once you have determined which skin type your skin falls into, you can try some of the following suggestions for making your skin look and feel young.

Caring for Vata (dry) skin type

Vata skin types should avoid any products that are too drying (alcohol-based cleansers). Perform Ayurvedic Oil Massage to your whole body in the morning before you shower.

Use gentle, all-natural moisturizer to keep skin hydrated. Provide added deep lipid support.

Use gentle, moisture-balancing cleanser and splash your face with water several times when you cleanse.

Caring for Pitta (sensitive) skin type

Pitta skin type needs both cooling and nurturing. Use skin care products that enhance resistance to the sun.

Pitta skin types should avoid products that are too abrasive or heating.

Try ayurvedic herb Flame of Forest. It can help protect Pitta skin from photo-sensitivity. But unlike other ayurvedic herbs, it needs to be used in combination with other herbs for a balanced effect on the skin.

Use cooling oil for the daily massage to stimulate circulation and create a glow.

Use gently, natural skin care products for cleansing and moisturizing.

Caring for Kapha (oily) skin type

Kapha skin type needs cleansing the most. That’s because Kapha skin has excessive oil on the surface.

Try not to counteract oiliness with products that are too drying instead, try cleansing the pores from the inside. by eating less heavy, sweet, and oily foods.

Don’t clog the pores by using greasy creams.

Take warm baths, cleanse with a gentle herbal cleanser, and exfoliate with an herbal clay twice a week to gently cleanse the pores, remove impurities, and open the channels.



By: Janet Emerson

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