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Health
Ginger has long been used as a popular natural treatment for a number of ailments.
Many benefits of ginger are already known, such as anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. Its gingerol content also has antiemetic, analgesic, sedative, antibacterial and other physiological effects, such as anti-diarrheal, which is what we'll look at in this article.
Research into ginger and diarrhea
Ginger has been used for thousands of years to treat numerous ailments, such as colds, nausea, arthritis, migraines and hypertension. The medicinal, chemical and pharmacological properties of ginger have been extensively reviewed. (2)
Several studies have found that ginger can help treat diarrhea.
Sudden and severe diarrhea can be due to bacteria called Escherichia coli (E. coli). Other infections, such as listeriosis, can also cause diarrhea.
A study in 2015 evaluated the ability of ginger and garlic to fight listeria and E. coli in a Petri dish. Both spices slowed down the growth of these bacterial infections.
The study of 2007 in mice found that ginger reduced the severity of diarrhea caused by E. coli.
A study by 2011 with guinea pigs suggests that ginger can alter the behavior of neurotransmitters and other chemicals linked to gastrointestinal discomfort, including nausea and vomiting.
Research published in 2012 found that ginger can prevent or reduce diarrhea in pigs.
Other gastrointestinal benefits of ginger
Ginger can do more than just relieve diarrhea. Studies (1) have found that ginger can treat gastrointestinal problems, including
morning sickness
motion sickness and sea sickness
nausea and vomiting due to chemotherapy
nausea after surgery
food poisoning
Safety
Ginger is safe and well tolerated, which means that there are few risks associated with its use for stomach pain or diarrhea. Even studies that do not support the use of ginger to treat stomach pain find few or no adverse effects.
When not to use ginger for diarrhea
Severe diarrhea can cause dehydration. Severe diarrhea can indicate an untreated illness and can be fatal in children.
People suffering from severe diarrhea that lasts more than a few days should seek medical attention.
Ginger dosage
A study of 2017 tried to assess, at what dosage, ginger becomes toxic to rabbits and rats. The highest dose the animals received was 5,000 milligrams per kilogram (mg/kg) of body weight, but none of the animals died or suffered serious side effects.
Although animal research is not always applicable to humans, this study offers preliminary evidence that ginger may be safe.
How to consume ginger
The best way to consume ginger is in its natural form. Taking processed ginger supplements can be dangerous, as some supplements may be contaminated, inconsistent or of poor quality.
Most sources recommend that people consume no more than 4 grams (g) of ginger per day.
Pregnant or breastfeeding women should consult a doctor before taking ginger supplements.
Try starting with 1 g or less a day and then gradually increasing the dose. Monitor symptoms carefully and check for side effects. As with any supplement, the safest option is to use the lowest effective dose.
So if the diarrhea goes away with 0.5 g of ginger, there's no need to increase the dose.
Pure ginger or ginger preparations?
Ginger can be prepared in various ways, including powder or juice. It is possible that the results of some of the studies differ because the researchers used different preparations of ginger.
For example, one research group used ginger mixed with other substances, such as honey.
The studies carried out used different ginger preparations, and there is no evidence to support one type of ginger over another.
Anyone considering ginger as a treatment for diarrhea should experiment with different preparations to find one that works.
A popular and healthy way to consume ginger is by drinking ginger tea. Ginger tea can be easily prepared at home by steeping 1 or 2 tablespoons of grated, chopped or powdered ginger in boiling water.
Leave to stand for several minutes or more and strain if necessary. You can add lemon or honey to taste.
Ginger can also be ground, used sparingly as a spice or even eaten on its own.
It has a strong flavor, which some people may find too strong, so it can be tastier when mixed with something else.
Side effects
Some people report a burning sensation in the mouth or nose. Ginger can irritate mucous membranes, so wash your hands after preparing ginger and before touching your face.
Caution for those with a history of food allergies, pregnant or breastfeeding women and people with compromised immune systems should consult a doctor before trying ginger or ginger supplements.
Conclusion
The use of "natural" or alternative medicines has increased sharply in recent years, the natural option is always preferable, but always be careful, there can be a significant problem with interactions between herbs and medicines.
If ginger aggravates symptoms or if diarrhea lasts more than a few days, seek medical attention.
Disclaimer: This content, including advice, provides generic information only. Do not replace a medical opinion in any way.