Using Ginger as a Treatment for Nausea
One of the most popular properties of ginger is that it relieves nausea and vomiting related to several conditions. Here are some circumstances where ginger may help.
Morning Sickness
Morning sickness is common in the first trimester of pregnancy, causing nausea and vomiting. Symptoms usually stop between 12 and 14 weeks. In a systematic review of studies, women given ginger caplets had a decrease in both nausea and vomiting compared to the placebo groups.
Another study compared ginger to anti-nausea medication and found it to be just as effective as medication without the side-effects. Ginger is generally safe to take during pregnancy, however, it is always best to consult with your doctor before taking any supplement.
B6 is a commonly prescribed remedy for nausea and vomiting during pregnancy. Research has shown that ginger is just as effective as B6 for relieving nausea.
Chemotherapy and Post-Surgery
Chemotherapy causes nausea in approximately 75% of patients. In a study that took 576 cancer patients who were going through cycles of chemotherapy, those who took ginger three days before as well as after chemo had a reduction in nausea after the treatment.
In another study done with bone cancer patients, those who took ginger had a reduction in episodes of delayed (after 24 hours) nausea and vomiting.
A study published by the National Institute of Health (NIH) found that ginger was effective in preventing postoperative nausea and vomiting.
Other Benefits
Ginger may also help lower blood sugar. In a test with 41 participants who had type 2 diabetes, those who took 2 grams of ginger per day lowered their fasting blood sugar by about 12 %!
Participants who took ginger supplements lowered their Hb A1c by 10% over twelve weeks.