Ginger
(Zingiber officinale)       

    General Description:  Perennial herb with rhizomes underground, with grass like stems that grow 24 feet.  Mostly grown in Jamaica.

      Part Used:  Root or rhizome

     Uses: 

               prevention of nausea and vomiting in pregnancy, cancer and
                    prior to  surgery. (studies are conflicting)   

                improve appetite   

                anti-inflammatory for arthritis

                antioxidant 

                headaches

                menstrual cramps

                dysmenorrhea

                colds & flu

 Action:  Increases GI motility but does not increase gastric emptying.   Antiemetic activity, antithrombotic properties, antispasmodic effects, diaphoretic and choagogue properties.  

Dosage:  German Commisson E recommends 2-4 g daily

               Tincture -  1-5-3.0 ml 

Precautions/Adverse Effects:  No reports of toxicity, however there is a risk of bleeding or heartburn if large doses are taken.

Contraindications: There have been conflicting studies in regards to pregnant women using ginger for morning sickness.  The German Commission E is taking a conservative approach by advising that pregnant women are to avoid its use.  Ginger in food, however is not considered risky during pregnancy.  

 Nursing Considerations: 

          Do not give to patients with history of gallstones. 

          Watch for bleeding due to antiplatelet properties. 

          Possible interactions with Coumadin, ASA, NSAIDs.

          Can cause CNS depression and cardiac arrhythmias if used in
             large  quantities. 

          Avoid during chemotherapy or surgery when bleeding is a concern. 

          Ginger is less effective when given to a patient 
             who is already nauseated.  

(References)