Known around the world for its culinary properties and its therapeutic virtues, ginger is a very used spice whose pronounced flavor is ideal for raising its dishes. But beware! Ginger is not without risk. What is the danger of ginger? What are its side effects? We take stock of its consequences, but also on its properties and benefits.
Description, composition, and properties of ginger
properties of gingerGinger consist of two parts: the rhizome (the underground part) and the aerial part including the stem and the leaves. In herbal medicine, the part used is the rhizome. The latter contains oleoresin composed of gingerol and shogaol, both with anti-inflammatory and anti-emetic effects (which limit nausea and vomiting). We also find vitamins, minerals (magnesium, phosphorus, calcium, manganese, iron, sodium) and essential oil.
Ginger can be found in various forms: fresh or ground, powdered or in oil. There is also ginger syrup, marinated ginger or ginger liquor.
Side uses, ginger can be added in dishes to meet them. Tea and infusions can also be prepared with. By consuming, you can enjoy its various benefits.
The health benefits of ginger
Facilitates digestion
Gingerol present in ginger is known for its digestive properties. It stimulates the production of bile and digestive enzymes.
Soothes nausea
Against nausea and vomiting, ginger is very effective! You can use it in cases of motion sickness, nausea due to chemotherapy or morning sickness.
Relieves pain
In athletes, muscle pain can be alleviated with ginger. A study published in the Journal of Pain shows that the intake of 2 grams of ginger for 11 days has reduced the pain of physical activity by 25% (source).
For people with osteoarthritis, the pain can also be reduced. And in case of menstrual pain, ginger can also be used to relieve you.
The danger of ginger: the contraindications, risks and undesirable effects of this plant
After the benefits, place the danger of ginger!
Adverse effects
If ginger can be consumed by everyone and at any time of the day, it is not without risk. In case of non-compliance with its dosages, it may in particular cause side effects. Thus, if the essential oil is used at high doses, allergies and skin irritations may occur.
If ginger is consumed too much, it can cause stomach upset, heartburn, nausea, bloating or diarrhea. If you have one or more of these symptoms, you will need to reduce your dose.
Contraindications
Taking ginger is not recommended if you:
Have problems of coagulation: because of its anticoagulant properties, ginger can amplify your problem and have several consequences: serious hemorrhages, small bleeding …
Should you have surgery: this contraindication is also due to the anticoagulant properties of ginger. So avoid its consumption to avoid excessive bleeding.
Suffer from ulcers because fresh, unmatched ginger can cause bowel obstruction.
Have gallstones: Ginger can accentuate your pain because it causes a greater production of bile.
If you suffer from any of these problems, it is important to consult your doctor before taking any ginger!
The Danger of ginger: drug interactions
If ginger can be used as a natural remedy to relieve certain disorders, its effects may amplify those of your treatment. For people undergoing medical treatment, it is therefore important to seek the advice of your doctor before consuming ginger. In the meantime, here are the drugs that this plant can interact with.
Anticoagulant treatments
Ginger can thin the blood. If taking anticoagulant medications, it is not recommended to use this plant, because it can increase the effects of treatment and cause bleeding and bruising.