Ginger (Nagara (Vishvabheshajam))
Medically Reviewed by Ayuveda Clinical Team (Lead Medical Reviewer: Dr. Nitin Mohite, BAMS, MBA • Medical Logic Developer, UK • Clinical Profile • LinkedIn).
About
Ginger is a common spice and herb known for its pungent flavor and medicinal properties. It is used in various cuisines and traditional medicine systems for its health benefits.
Botanical name: Zingiber officinale. Also known as: Ginger, Adrak, Shunthi, Shrngavera, Ardraka, Mahoushadhi.
Properties
Anti-inflammatory, Antioxidant, Analgesic, Antimicrobial, Insulin Sensitizer
Dosage
1-3 grams of fresh ginger or 250-500mg of dried ginger powder daily
Classical attributes
- Rasa: Katu (Pungent)
- Virya: ["Ushna (Heating)"]
- Vipaka: ["Madhura (Sweet)"]
Benefits
- Deepana (Appetizer)
- Pachana (Digestive)
- Shulahara (Pain reliever)
- Rochana (Improves taste)
- Kaphavatahara (Reduces Kapha and Vata)
Traditional uses
- Agni Mandya (Low digestive fire)
- Aruchi (Anorexia)
- Shula (Pain)
- Kasa (Cough)
- Shwasa (Asthma)
- Pratishyaya (Common cold)
Dosha effects
- vata: balancing
- kapha: balancing
- pitta: balancing
Contraindications
- Bleeding disorders
- Gallstones
- Pregnancy (high doses)
- Before surgery
Side effects
- Heartburn
- Upset stomach
- Mouth irritation
Interactions
- Blood thinners
- Diabetes medications
- High blood pressure medications
Active compounds
- Gingerols
- Shogaols
- Zingerone
Clinical evidence
Meta-analyses of up to 15 RCTs and databases tracking 20+ RCTs show ginger to be effective for nausea and vomiting, menstrual cramps, and potentially beneficial for osteoarthritis and blood sugar control. Clinical evidence suggests anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties may help with pain relief and immune support.
Ayurvedic karmas
- Deepana (Appetizer)
- Pachana (Digestive)
- Shulahara (Pain reliever)
- Rochana (Improves taste)
- Kaphavatahara (Reduces Kapha and Vata)
Classical clinical indications
- Agni Mandya (Low digestive fire)
- Aruchi (Anorexia)
- Shula (Pain)
- Kasa (Cough)
- Shwasa (Asthma)
- Pratishyaya (Common cold)
Frequently asked questions
What is Ginger?
Ginger is a common spice and herb known for its pungent flavor and medicinal properties. It is used in various cuisines and traditional medicine systems for its health benefits.
What are the benefits of Ginger?
Deepana (Appetizer). Pachana (Digestive). Shulahara (Pain reliever)
How is Ginger used in Ayurveda?
Agni Mandya (Low digestive fire)
Classical & Scientific References
- Classical monographs on Ginger in Bhavaprakasha Nighantu and Dravyaguna Vijnana.
- Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia of India (API), Ministry of AYUSH, Government of India.
- Charaka Samhita (Sutra Sthana Ch. 4 — Dravyadi Sangrahaniya) & Sushruta Samhita.
Published by herbs.directory