Zingiber officinale · Rhizome (root)
Ginger
Studied in peopleA warming rhizome carried along ancient spice routes from South Asia, ginger has seasoned food and comforted stomachs for thousands of years. It is one of the best-studied kitchen herbs in the world.
Traditionally used for
- Traditionally used in Ayurvedic and Chinese practice as a warming digestive herb
- Long used by sailors and travelers for motion-related queasiness
- Folk use as a hot tea during cold weather
What research says
NCCIH summarizes human studies suggesting ginger may help relieve nausea and vomiting associated with pregnancy; findings for other kinds of nausea are mixed.
How people use it
- Fresh slices simmered 10 minutes for tea
- Grated into stir-fries, soups and marinades
- Dried powder in baking and spice blends
- Candied or crystallized pieces
Safety and interactions
- Generally considered safe in food amounts
- Can cause heartburn, gas or stomach upset at higher amounts
- Talk with your doctor before using supplements if you take blood thinners or are pregnant
Always talk with your doctor or pharmacist before using ginger as a supplement, especially with prescription medicine, in pregnancy or before surgery.
Sources
Reviewed October 25, 2026. Evidence tier: Studied in people: Human studies summarized by NIH NCCIH suggest a possible benefit for a specific use. How we rank evidence.