Originally from Southeast Asia, ginger is much more than a simple spice: it has been recognized for millennia for its medicinal properties. Pillar of traditional Chinese medicine, it is known to appease belly ailments, promote digestion and alleviate nausea. Recent scientific studies now confirm these ancestral benefits.
Effective root against vomiting and nausea
“Many studies, including several metanalysis, confirm the positive effects of ginger on the risk of nausea and vomiting, especially in post-operative” also ensures for True Medical Dr. Laure Martinat, anesthesiologist and specialist in phytotherapy and micronutrition.
In 2018, for example, an Australian study showed that the two main compounds of ginger – gingerol and shogaol – relieve nausea by preventing activation of the center of vomiting in the brain.
Another work, published in Frontiers in Pharmacology In 2024, observed that 500 to 1,500 mg of ginger per day significantly reduced nausea in pregnant women, even if the effect on vomiting remained limited.
A “multicible” action against vomiting
For Dr. Martinat, the virtues of ginger are explained by its unique mode of action.
“”Ginger root has real anti-nausea properties, whether vomiting related to transport evil or other situations. These effects are based on two main molecules: gingerol and shogaol “.
According to her, these two compounds explain the properties of ginger. The vomiting mechanism implies the stimulation of different receptors, such as NK1 and 5-HP3. However, conventional drugs target only one receiver at the same time. Ginger has a so -called multicible action, which allows it to act more broadly and to prevent nausea more effectively.
Benefits on digestive comfort also.
Ginger also has benefits on intestinal comfort: its plug accelerates gastric emptying, thus facilitating digestion. But in what form to consume it, to enjoy its benefits?
“”To benefit from these effects, the most interesting form remains ginger powder, especially in the form of capsules containing dry extract. Infusions or herbal teas are much less effective, because gingerol and shogaol are not soluble in water “ underlines Dr. Martinat.
She advises to take 1 to 2 g of ginger powder in a single plug, up to twice a day. “”In case of transportation, it is ideally necessary to take a dose before the trip “ she adds.
Is ginger advised in children?
In children, there is no particular contraindication, provided you adapt the form and the dose. “”The only obstacle remains the galenic: many children have trouble swallowing the capsules, and the spicy taste of pure ginger can put them off. “
Dr. Martinat also advises essential ginger oil in inhalation, studied as part of chemotherapy. “”Breathing this oil several times a day can help prevent nausea and vomiting, in addition to the oral route “ she says.
Finally, be aware that ginger is a real superfood. On the digestive level, its benefits go far beyond the nausea.
“”Ginger is also an anti-inflammatory food. It improves stomach aches, facilitates digestion and transit by promoting the emptying of the stomach “.
But it all depends of course on the origin of stomach aches. “”This remains a complement: taken alone, it will not be enough to treat bloating, for example, but it can soothe certain pain, in particular rules of rules “.
Finally, to enjoy its antioxidant virtues, “Regular consumption of fresh ginger is recommended because the fresh shape better keeps its active molecules. Ginger is a real health food, to consume like other beneficial spices – coriander, turmeric, thyme or rosemary – due to its effects on microbiota and anti -inflammatory and antioxidant properties “ concludes our expert.