TREATMENT DATABASE

Ginger (Zingiber officinale) was used by the ancient Greeks as a digestive aid. It is still used as an antidote for motion sickness, nausea, and numerous digestive disturbances. It soothes smooth muscles, making it useful for alleviating menstrual cramps, as well. Ginger can be taken in capsule form or boiled to make tea. Ginger root is available from grocery or health food stores. Ginger powder, however, as found in the spice section of a grocery store, should not be used as a medication because it is usually irradiated. Excessive amounts may cause mild headache. 

USES IN ME/CFS: Dr. Teitelbaum recommends ginger for relief of muscle and joint pain, nausea, migraines, motion sickness, and for raising blood pressure (for those with hypotension). The most common use among patients is for nausea, a symptom which can be utterly debilitating if unchecked. 

Ginger is a food, so it can be taken on an as-needed basis. It can be purchased as a whole root, grated and added to food, or boiled to make a tea. 

Treatment rating for Ginger