Ginger Root Side Effects

Ginger, otherwise known as ginger root, is native to some parts of Asia, like, China and India. The term 'ginger' is used to denote the edible rhizome of the plant Zingiber officinale, which belongs to the family Zingiberaceae, along with turmeric, cardamom, etc. Ginger is very popular across the globe, as a herb, spice and delicacy. It is believed that ginger has been used in ancient Chinese and Indian medicine, for treating various medical conditions, like, cold, cough, diarrhea, indigestion, rheumatism, etc. It is evident from the writings of Confucius and the ancient Ayurvedic texts of India. Indians too used this herb to treat cold, cough, headache, nausea, colic, palpitations, swelling, dyspepsia, and rheumatism. From Asia, this herb found its way to Rome and other European countries.

Medicinal Value of Ginger

Traditional medicinal uses of ginger root included its use in treating cold, cough, digestive disorders, menstrual cramps, etc. This herb is believed to have aphrodisiac powers, and is mentioned in 'Kama Sutra'. Ginger is used to relieve motion sickness and morning sickness. It has anti-inflammatory properties and is used to relieve pain and reduce inflammation associated with arthritis, rheumatism and muscle cramps. Ginger is also used to expel the phlegm accumulated in the lungs and so, is found to be effective in treating respiratory diseases, like, asthma and bronchitis. It can stimulate blood circulation and is also useful in removing toxins from the body. This herb has blood thinning and cholesterol lowering properties, which are beneficial for lowering the risk of heart disease. Ginger root health benefits is believed to be due to its active components, like, gingerols, zingibain, bisabolenel, oleoresins, starch, mucilage and essential oil (zingiberene, zingiberole, camphene, cineol, borneol).

Ginger Root Side Effects

Most of us are familiar with the health benefits of ginger root and its culinary uses. However, like any other herb, high doses or overuse of ginger may result in some side effects. The following are some of the ginger root side effects.

• The most common side effects of ginger root includes, heartburn, diarrhea and irritation of the mouth.
• In some people, prolonged use of ginger root may lead to dry and scaly rashes, which develop on the face and may move downward with time.
• Another ginger root side effect, associated with its long term use is visual sensitivity to bright light.
• Ginger root consumption is not recommended for people with gallstones, as this herb increases bile production. The same applies to those, who are taking blood thinning medications or is preparing for surgery.
• Ginger should be avoided by people with bleeding disorders, ulcers and inflammatory bowel diseases.
• It has also been noticed that some people with allergies, develop ginger root side effects, like rashes. In some rare cases, eye irritation and pink eye has also been associated with consumption of ginger.
• There are also reports that suggest that ginger may also affect the blood pressure and heart rhythms.

There are very few reports of ginger root side effects in people, who take low doses of this herb. Most of the reported cases are either associated with intake of ginger powder as compared to fresh form, prolonged use of ginger root or its overuse. It may also interact with other drugs, herbs or supplements and create complications. Hence, it is very important to seek the opinion of your doctor before using this herb for medicinal purposes. It is also advisable to undergo a herbal treatment under the supervision of a qualified herbal practitioner.