Critically acclaimed for its pungently refreshing flavor, the ginger root (Zingiber officinale) is also deemed a medicinal trove. The organic spice is traced back to ancient lore. From America’s colonists to the Chinese herbalists, ginger root has been used in a wide range of cultures to quell an upset stomach.

As a family member of the botanicals: marjoram and turmeric, the ginger plant is a native of southeastern Asia. Today, the perfumed rhizome (underground stem) is not only used for medicinal purposes but culinary delights, as well. Nonetheless, many nationalities continue the custom of using ginger root to prevent nausea and stomach discomfort.

There is overwhelming research that validates the anti-inflammatory compounds of ginger root. For starters, ginger is powerful as a digestive aid due impart to its active ingredients. The properties for reducing inflammation are gingerols and shogaols. Simultaneously, the two substances aid in the neutralization of stomach acids. They improve the secretion of digestive juices and tone the digestive tract’s muscles.

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Aside from remedying digestive inflammation, ginger serves the following other health benefits:

Manages chronic pain
Alleviates nausea
Defends motion sickness
Dispels dizziness
Quells allergy, cold and respiratory symptoms

Indirectly, ginger root aids in the relief of chronic pain. Since it has the power to reduce inflammation, it has the capability of reducing the body's natural level of pain causing elements (prostaglandins). To reduce the symptoms of the allergies, common cold, as well as other respiratory conditions, ginger root acts as a natural decongestant or antihistamine.

Clinical trials tested ginger root on postoperative gynecological or exploratory (laparoscopic) patients. Nausea and vomiting were less prevalent in the postoperative patients who were administered ginger than a placebo. The confirmation of how ginger root reduces motion sickness was proved in a study of Danish naval cadets. Fewer events of seasickness symptoms (dizziness, motion sickness, and nausea) were reported with ginger powder than the naval cadets given a placebo.