Ginger’s health benefits and medication risks

[WORLD] Ginger is a multifunctional ingredient that serves as a food, spice, flavor enhancer, and medicinal remedy. Known for its pungent kick and fragrant aroma, this rhizome enhances both savory and sweet dishes.

Recent research has also highlighted ginger’s potential role in promoting gut health. Studies suggest that ginger may support digestion by accelerating gastric emptying, which could benefit individuals with slow digestion or irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Additionally, its anti-inflammatory properties may help soothe irritation in the gut lining, although more clinical trials are needed to confirm these effects.

Used for over 3,000 years in traditional medicine across various cultures, ginger has been employed to treat conditions like headaches, nausea, vomiting, menstrual cramps, diarrhea, and colds. Along with its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory benefits, emerging research indicates it may help lower cholesterol, blood pressure, and regulate blood sugar, offering protection for heart health.

Given ginger’s broad potential, it’s crucial to recognize that although it's a natural remedy, it can interact with certain medications. Knowing what to look for can help protect your health. We consulted experts—including a pharmacist and two registered dietitians—to provide insights and recommendations. Here's what you need to know.

In addition to its interactions with medications, ginger’s bioactive compounds, such as gingerols and shogaols, have been studied for their potential anticancer properties. Laboratory studies suggest these compounds may inhibit the growth of specific cancer cells, though human trials are still in their early stages. While these findings are promising, experts caution against relying solely on ginger as a cancer treatment and stress the importance of evidence-based therapies.

Medications That May Interact with Ginger

While ginger offers potential health benefits, individuals taking the following medications should consult their healthcare provider before increasing their ginger intake or using supplements.

1. Blood Thinners

The antioxidant compounds in ginger—gingerols, shogaol, zingiberene, and bisabolene—give it its characteristic spice, but they may also possess blood-thinning properties. These compounds can interfere with thromboxane, a substance produced by platelets that helps form blood clots during bleeding. "Ginger may disrupt this clotting process, increasing the risk of bleeding," explains Havy Ngo-Hamilton, Pharm.D., RPh, a clinical pharmacist at the University of Minnesota Medical Center.

The blood-thinning effects of ginger have been compared to those of garlic and turmeric, two other natural substances with anticoagulant properties. While these ingredients are praised for cardiovascular benefits, combining them with prescription blood thinners can heighten the risk of excessive bleeding. Patients on medications like warfarin (Coumadin), aspirin, clopidogrel (Plavix), or rivaroxaban (Xarelto) should closely monitor their intake of these substances and consult their healthcare provider for guidance.

2. Diabetes Medications

Ginger has been shown to reduce fasting blood sugar levels, improve insulin sensitivity, and enhance A1C levels in people with type 2 diabetes. While this is promising, combining ginger with blood-sugar-lowering medications like metformin or insulin may lead to an excessive drop in blood sugar. Compounds in ginger may interfere with enzymes that break down carbohydrates, potentially intensifying the effects of diabetes medication and increasing the risk of hypoglycemia (low blood sugar).

3. Antiarrhythmic Medications

If you have an arrhythmia or irregular heartbeat, ginger may interact with antiarrhythmic medications like amiodarone (Pacerone, Cordarone). Ginger's compounds may block calcium from entering heart cells, which could lower blood pressure and interfere with the heart's ability to contract properly.

4. Blood Pressure Medications

Ginger can enhance the effects of blood pressure medications by interfering with angiotensin, a hormone that regulates blood pressure and fluid balance in the body. Over time, this may relax blood vessels and lower blood pressure. For individuals managing hypertension, ginger’s vasodilatory effects could complement their treatment, but sudden drops in blood pressure can cause dizziness or fainting—especially in older adults. Those on antihypertensive medications should monitor their blood pressure and report any unusual symptoms to their healthcare provider.

Effects of Ginger on Medication Absorption

In addition to interacting with specific medications, ginger may also amplify the effects of certain drugs. If you experience side effects like sweating, shaking, nervousness, anxiety, or dizziness when consuming ginger with medication, seek medical attention immediately.

How Much Ginger Is Safe per Day?

For most people, consuming small amounts of ginger as part of meals is considered safe and unlikely to cause significant drug interactions. Michele Routhenstein, M.S., RD, CDCES, a preventive cardiology dietitian, suggests that up to 4 grams of fresh ginger per day is generally safe—roughly equivalent to two teaspoons of powdered ginger or four teaspoons of grated raw ginger. However, consuming large amounts of ginger may irritate the gastrointestinal system, leading to nausea, cramps, bloating, diarrhea, heartburn, or throat irritation, warns Ngo-Hamilton.

To avoid gastrointestinal discomfort, it’s best to enjoy ginger in moderation, such as adding it to sushi, poke bowls, or using powdered ginger in recipes. Megan Huff, RDN, a clinical dietitian, recommends speaking with a registered dietitian about safe ways to incorporate ginger into your meals. If you're considering ginger supplements or taking medications, consult your doctor to determine the appropriate dosage for your individual needs.

Who Should Avoid Ginger Supplements?

Certain individuals should avoid ginger supplements, including those with:

Ginger allergies or sensitivities: If you're allergic to ginger or have a sensitive stomach or digestive issues, steer clear of ginger supplements.

Bleeding disorders: Due to its blood-thinning effects, ginger may not be suitable for those with bleeding disorders or those taking blood-thinning medications.

Upcoming surgery: Because ginger can interact with anesthesia and medications used during surgery, it’s generally advised to stop taking ginger supplements two to three weeks before a scheduled procedure.

Children: Ginger supplements aren’t recommended for children unless specifically prescribed by a doctor, due to limited research on their safety and efficacy in young people.

In many cultures, ginger has long been celebrated as both a culinary and medicinal ingredient. While cooking with ginger is generally safe, it’s important to recognize its potential interactions with medications such as blood thinners, and medications for blood sugar and blood pressure. Before incorporating ginger supplements into your routine, consult your doctor about potential interactions with your medications to minimize the risk of side effects. Additionally, a registered dietitian can help you determine a safe amount of ginger to include in your meals.