Herb & supplement monograph

Ginger Drug Interactions, Uses, Effectiveness, Safety & More

Medically reviewed by ·Updated July 2026
What is this page for?

First and foremost: how Ginger interacts with medications. The heart of this page is the interaction list — every drug Ginger is known to interact with, and how serious each one is.

But these pages have grown well beyond that into a full monograph — what Ginger is, what people use it for and how strong the evidence is, its safety and side effects, and answers to the questions we’re asked most — written and reviewed by the clinical staff at HelloPharmacist. It’s educational information from our licensed clinical databases, not medical advice, and we don’t sell or endorse products. Our editorial policy

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Ginger Drug Interactions: The Bottom Line

From the HelloPharmacist Editorial Team · Updated July 2026

Based on the available evidence, the overall risk of a clinically significant Ginger drug interaction appears low for most people. None of ginger's listed interactions are rated major, and even the moderate ones rest on limited, mixed, or largely theoretical evidence.

Interactions deserving the most attention

The concern with the most real-world support involves blood thinners. Case reports link ginger to a raised INR with warfarin and the related drug phenprocoumon, and a small study found ginger plus nifedipine reduced platelet clumping more than either alone, so extra bleeding risk deserves respect even though trial results conflict. Ginger may also lower blood sugar, which could add to the effect of diabetes medications, and a few case reports describe increased toxicity when ginger was combined with certain cancer drugs the body clears through pathways ginger may block.

What the rest of the list means

Ginger's interaction list is long mainly because lab studies suggest it may affect enzymes and transporters the body uses to process many medications, so whole drug classes get flagged at once. Most of these predicted effects have not been confirmed in people, and several have not produced meaningful changes in human studies.

Check your medications against Ginger

Based on HelloPharmacist’s Ginger interaction data and reviewed under our editorial standards.

Interaction report

Drugs that interact with Ginger

1007 medications have a known interaction with Ginger, graded by severity. Select any drug for the full evidence-based detail.

2,830 drugs
Ado-trastuzumab EmtansineKadcyla
Moderate Cytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates

Ginger might increase or decrease the levels of CYP3A4 substrates.

Read the full Ginger + Ado-trastuzumab Emtansine interaction Ado-trastuzumab Emtansine drug page: uses, dosage & side effects
AbciximabReoPro
Moderate Anticoagulant/antiplatelet Drugs

Ginger may have antiplatelet effects and may increase the risk of bleeding if used with anticoagulant or antiplatelet drugs.

Read the full Ginger + Abciximab interaction
AbemaciclibVerzenio
Moderate Cytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates

Ginger might increase or decrease the levels of CYP3A4 substrates.

Read the full Ginger + Abemaciclib interaction Abemaciclib drug page: uses, dosage & side effects
Abiraterone
Moderate Cytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates

Ginger might increase or decrease the levels of CYP3A4 substrates.

Read the full Ginger + Abiraterone interaction Abiraterone drug page: uses, dosage & side effects
Abiraterone AcetateYonsa, Zytiga
Moderate Cytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates

Ginger might increase or decrease the levels of CYP3A4 substrates.

Read the full Ginger + Abiraterone Acetate interaction Abiraterone Acetate drug page: uses, dosage & side effects
AbrocitinibCibinqo
Moderate Anticoagulant/antiplatelet Drugs

Ginger may have antiplatelet effects and may increase the risk of bleeding if used with anticoagulant or antiplatelet drugs.

Read the full Ginger + Abrocitinib interaction Abrocitinib drug page: uses, dosage & side effects
AcalabrutinibCalquence
Moderate P-glycoprotein Substrates

Ginger might increase the absorption and blood levels of P-glycoprotein (P-gp) substrates.

Read the full Ginger + Acalabrutinib interaction Acalabrutinib drug page: uses, dosage & side effects
AcarboseGlucobay, Prandase, Precose
Moderate Antidiabetes Drugs

Theoretically, taking ginger with antidiabetes drugs might increase the risk of hypoglycemia.

Read the full Ginger + Acarbose interaction Acarbose drug page: uses, dosage & side effects
AcenocoumarolSintrom
Moderate Anticoagulant/antiplatelet Drugs

Ginger may have antiplatelet effects and may increase the risk of bleeding if used with anticoagulant or antiplatelet drugs.

Read the full Ginger + Acenocoumarol interaction
Acetaminophen, AspirinGemnisyn
Moderate Anticoagulant/antiplatelet Drugs

Ginger may have antiplatelet effects and may increase the risk of bleeding if used with anticoagulant or antiplatelet drugs.

Read the full Ginger + Acetaminophen, Aspirin interaction
Acetaminophen, Aspirin, CaffeineExcedrin, Excedrin Extra Strength, Excedrin Migraine
Moderate Anticoagulant/antiplatelet Drugs

Ginger may have antiplatelet effects and may increase the risk of bleeding if used with anticoagulant or antiplatelet drugs.

Read the full Ginger + Acetaminophen, Aspirin, Caffeine interaction
Acetaminophen, Butalbital, CaffeineEsgic, Esgic Plus, Fiogesic, Fioricet, Repan, Tecnal +1 more
Moderate Cytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates

Ginger might increase or decrease the levels of CYP3A4 substrates.

Read the full Ginger + Acetaminophen, Butalbital, Caffeine interaction Acetaminophen, Butalbital, Caffeine drug page: uses, dosage & side effects
Acetaminophen, Butalbital, Caffeine, CodeineEsgic with Codeine, Fioricet w/ Codeine
Moderate Cytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates

Ginger might increase or decrease the levels of CYP3A4 substrates.

Read the full Ginger + Acetaminophen, Butalbital, Caffeine, Codeine interaction
Acetaminophen, Caffeine, Chlorpheniramine, Hydrocodone, PhenylephrineHycomine Compound
Moderate Cytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates

Ginger might increase or decrease the levels of CYP3A4 substrates.

Read the full Ginger + Acetaminophen, Caffeine, Chlorpheniramine, Hydrocodone, Phenylephrine interaction
Acetaminophen, Caffeine, CodeineGesic C15, Gesic C30, Gesic C8, Lenoltec 1, Lenoltec 2, Lenoltec 3 +1 more
Moderate Cytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates

Ginger might increase or decrease the levels of CYP3A4 substrates.

Read the full Ginger + Acetaminophen, Caffeine, Codeine interaction
Acetaminophen, Caffeine, Codeine, SalicylamideCodalan No.1, Codalan No.2, Codalan No.3
Moderate Cytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates

Ginger might increase or decrease the levels of CYP3A4 substrates.

Read the full Ginger + Acetaminophen, Caffeine, Codeine, Salicylamide interaction
Acetaminophen, Caffeine, DihydrocodeineDHC Plus, Panlor DC, Panlor SS
Moderate Cytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates

Ginger might increase or decrease the levels of CYP3A4 substrates.

Read the full Ginger + Acetaminophen, Caffeine, Dihydrocodeine interaction
Acetaminophen, Caffeine, IsomethepteneMigralam
Moderate Cytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates

Ginger might increase or decrease the levels of CYP3A4 substrates.

Read the full Ginger + Acetaminophen, Caffeine, Isometheptene interaction
Acetaminophen, Caffeine, PyrilamineMidol Max Strength Menstrual
Moderate Cytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates

Ginger might increase or decrease the levels of CYP3A4 substrates.

Read the full Ginger + Acetaminophen, Caffeine, Pyrilamine interaction
Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine Maleate, Dextromethorphan HbrVicks Formula 44M Cough, Cold & Flu Relief
Moderate Cytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates

Ginger might increase or decrease the levels of CYP3A4 substrates.

Read the full Ginger + Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine Maleate, Dextromethorphan Hbr interaction
Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Codeine, PhenylephrineColrex
Moderate Cytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates

Ginger might increase or decrease the levels of CYP3A4 substrates.

Read the full Ginger + Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Codeine, Phenylephrine interaction
Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, DextromethorphanCoricidin II Extra Strength Cold and Flu
Moderate Cytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates

Ginger might increase or decrease the levels of CYP3A4 substrates.

Read the full Ginger + Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Dextromethorphan interaction
Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Dextromethorphan HydrobromideCoricidin HBP Maximum Strength Flu
Moderate Cytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates

Ginger might increase or decrease the levels of CYP3A4 substrates.

Read the full Ginger + Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Dextromethorphan Hydrobromide interaction
Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Dextromethorphan, PhenylpropanolamineMulti Symptom Cold Relief
Moderate Cytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates

Ginger might increase or decrease the levels of CYP3A4 substrates.

Read the full Ginger + Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Dextromethorphan, Phenylpropanolamine interaction
Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Dextromethorphan, PseudoephedrineChildren's Tylenol Cold Plus Cough, Tylenol Cold Ex Strength
Moderate Cytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates

Ginger might increase or decrease the levels of CYP3A4 substrates.

Read the full Ginger + Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Dextromethorphan, Pseudoephedrine interaction
Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Guaifenesin, Phenylephrine, SalicylamideRhinogesic GG
Moderate Cytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates

Ginger might increase or decrease the levels of CYP3A4 substrates.

Read the full Ginger + Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Guaifenesin, Phenylephrine, Salicylamide interaction
Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, PhenylephrineAlka-Seltzer PLUS, Histex SR, Protid
Moderate Cytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates

Ginger might increase or decrease the levels of CYP3A4 substrates.

Read the full Ginger + Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Phenylephrine interaction
Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Phenylephrine, SalicylamideRhinogesic, Rhinogesic JR
Moderate Cytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates

Ginger might increase or decrease the levels of CYP3A4 substrates.

Read the full Ginger + Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Phenylephrine, Salicylamide interaction
Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, PhenylpropanolamineAlumadrine, Conex, Sinadrin Max Strength, Sinulin
Moderate Cytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates

Ginger might increase or decrease the levels of CYP3A4 substrates.

Read the full Ginger + Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Phenylpropanolamine interaction
Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Phenylpropanolamine, OpiumHista-Derfule
Moderate Cytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates

Ginger might increase or decrease the levels of CYP3A4 substrates.

Read the full Ginger + Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Phenylpropanolamine, Opium interaction
Read The List Like a Pharmacist

What Severity, Likelihood & Evidence Mean

Severity — How Serious It Can Be

  • Major. Clinically significant; generally best avoided, or used only under direct professional supervision.
  • Moderate. May need monitoring, a dose adjustment, or separating the times you take each one.
  • Minor. Generally not clinically significant, but still worth noting and mentioning to your pharmacist.
  • No known interaction. Checked against our sources with nothing documented — not the same as proven safety.

Likelihood — How Well It’s Documented

  • Likely. Well-controlled human studies have demonstrated the likely existence of this interaction
  • Probable. Interaction has not been documented in well-controlled studies, however, the interaction has been demonstrated in some small human studies or in controlled animal studies in conjunction with multiple case reports.
  • Possible. Interaction has been documented in animal or in lab research, or the interaction has been documented in humans but is limited to case reports or conflicting clinical research exists
  • Unlikely. Interaction has been demonstrated in animal or in lab research but has been shown not to occur in humans.

Where This Data Comes From

  • Interaction records are evidence-graded and sourced from the Natural Medicines database (TRC Healthcare), the same reference used by pharmacists and hospitals.
  • Each drug listed above links to the full report for that exact Ginger combination — clinical detail, likelihood, evidence level, and citations.
  • Content is reviewed by licensed HelloPharmacist pharmacists — see our data sources and editorial standards.
The big picture

The kinds of drugs Ginger affects

Every type of medication (drug category) Ginger is known to interact with. Open any category for the detail — or search your exact drug in the checker above.

All 14 drug categories Ginger interacts with
Anticoagulant/antiplatelet DrugsAntidiabetes DrugsCytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) SubstratesLosartan (cozaar)Nifedipine (procardia)P-glycoprotein SubstratesPhenprocoumon (marcoumar, Others)Warfarin (coumadin)Calcium Channel BlockersCyclosporine (neoral, Sandimmune)Cytochrome P450 1a2 (cyp1a2) SubstratesCytochrome P450 2b6 (cyp2b6) SubstratesCytochrome P450 2c9 (cyp2c9) SubstratesMetronidazole (flagyl)
Anticoagulant/Antiplatelet Drugs

Ginger may have antiplatelet effects and may increase the risk of bleeding if used with anticoagulant or antiplatelet drugs. However, research is conflicting.
Laboratory research suggests that ginger inhibits thromboxane synthetase and decreases platelet aggregation. However, this has not been demonstrated unequivocally in humans, with mixed results from clinical trials. Theoretically, excessive amounts of ginger might increase the risk of bleeding when used with anticoagulant/antiplatelet drugs.

Likelihood Possible Evidence B
Antidiabetes Drugs

Theoretically, taking ginger with antidiabetes drugs might increase the risk of hypoglycemia.
Animal and human research suggests that ginger might increase insulin levels and/or decrease blood glucose levels.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Cytochrome P450 3A4 (Cyp3A4) Substrates

Ginger might increase or decrease the levels of CYP3A4 substrates.
In vitro research and some case reports suggest that ginger inhibits CYP3A4 activity. Three case reports from the World Health Organization (WHO) adverse drug reaction database describe increased toxicity in patients taking ginger and cancer medications that are CYP3A4 substrates (imatinib, dabrafenib, and crizotinib). However, the causality of this interaction is unclear due to the presence of multiple interacting drugs and routes of administration.
Conversely, other in vitro research suggests that ginger induces CYP3A4 activity, leading to reduced levels of CYP3A4 substrates. However, this interaction has not been reported in humans.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Losartan (Cozaar)

Theoretically, ginger might increase levels of losartan and the risk of hypotension.
In animal research, ginger increased the levels and hypotensive effects of a single dose of losartan. It is not clear if ginger alters the concentration or effects of losartan when taken continuously. Additionally, this interaction has not been shown in humans.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Nifedipine (Procardia)

Ginger may have antiplatelet effects and increase the risk of bleeding if used with nifedipine.
Clinical research shows that combined treatment with ginger 1 gram plus nifedipine 10 mg significantly inhibits platelet aggregation when compared to nifedipine or ginger alone.

Likelihood Possible Evidence B
P-Glycoprotein Substrates

Ginger might increase the absorption and blood levels of P-glycoprotein (P-gp) substrates.
In vitro research and case reports suggest that ginger inhibits drug efflux by P-gp, potentially increasing absorption and serum levels of P-gp substrates. Two case reports from the World Health Organization (WHO) adverse drug reaction database describe increased toxicity in patients taking ginger and cancer medications that are P-gp substrates (trametinib, crizotinib). However, the causality of this interaction is unclear due to the presence of multiple interacting drugs and routes of administration.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Phenprocoumon (Marcoumar, Others)

Ginger might increase the risk of bleeding with phenprocoumon.
Phenprocoumon, a warfarin-related anticoagulant, might increase the international normalized ratio (INR) when taken with ginger. There is one case report of a 76-year-old woman with a stable INR on phenprocoumon that increased to greater than 10 when she began consuming dried ginger and ginger tea.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Warfarin (Coumadin)

Ginger might increase the risk of bleeding with warfarin.
Laboratory research suggests that ginger might inhibit thromboxane synthetase and decrease platelet aggregation. In one case report, ginger increased the INR when taken with phenprocoumon, which has similar pharmacological effects as warfarin. In another case report, ginger increased the INR when taken with a combination of warfarin, hydrochlorothiazide, and acetaminophen. A longitudinal analysis suggests that taking ginger increases the risk of bleeding in patients taking warfarin for at least 4 months. However, research in healthy people suggests that ginger has no effect on INR, or the pharmacokinetics or pharmacodynamics of warfarin. Until more is known, monitor INRs closely in patients taking large amounts of ginger.

Likelihood Possible Evidence B
Calcium Channel Blockers

Theoretically, taking ginger with calcium channel blockers might increase the risk of hypotension.
Some animal and in vitro research suggests that ginger has hypotensive and calcium channel-blocking effects. Another animal study shows that concomitant administration of ginger and the calcium channel blocker amlodipine leads to greater reductions in blood pressure when compared with amlodipine alone.

Likelihood Unlikely Evidence D
Cyclosporine (Neoral, Sandimmune)

Theoretically, when taken prior to cyclosporine, ginger might decrease cyclosporine levels.
In an animal model, ginger juice taken 2 hours prior to cyclosporine administration reduced the maximum concentration and area under the curve of cyclosporine by 51% and 40%, respectively. This effect was not observed when ginger juice and cyclosporine were administered at the same time.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Cytochrome P450 1A2 (Cyp1A2) Substrates

Theoretically, ginger might increase the levels of CYP1A2 substrates.
In vitro research shows that ginger inhibits CYP1A2 activity. However, this interaction has not been reported in humans.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Cytochrome P450 2B6 (Cyp2B6) Substrates

Theoretically, ginger might increase the levels of CYP2B6 substrates.
In vitro research shows that ginger inhibits CYP2B6 activity. However, this interaction has not been reported in humans.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Cytochrome P450 2C9 (Cyp2C9) Substrates

Theoretically, ginger might increase the levels of CYP2C9 substrates.
In vitro research shows that ginger inhibits CYP2C9 activity. However, this interaction has not been reported in humans.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Metronidazole (Flagyl)

Theoretically, ginger might increase levels of metronidazole.
In an animal model, ginger increased the absorption and plasma half-life of metronidazole. In addition, the elimination rate and clearance of metronidazole was significantly reduced.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Monograph

Ginger: Uses, Safety & Side Effects

Medically reviewed by · Reviewed July 2026 ·
The bottom line

Ginger is a widely used culinary spice with a long history in traditional medicine, and it has the strongest evidence for helping with nausea and vomiting, including from motion sickness, pregnancy, and chemotherapy. It is generally safe in food and supplement amounts for most people, though it may cause mild stomach upset. Talk with your pharmacist or doctor before using ginger supplements, especially if you are pregnant, have a bleeding disorder, or take other medicines.

Ginger
Scientific name
Zingiber officinale
Family
Zingiberaceae
Part used
Rhizome (root)
Common forms
Fresh or dried root, powder, tea, capsules, tablets, candied ginger, liquid extracts, and essential oil
People commonly use it for
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Motion sickness
  • Morning sickness in pregnancy
  • Digestive upset
  • Menstrual cramps
  • Joint pain and inflammation

Popular and traditional uses — not proof it works. See “Uses & effectiveness” below for the evidence.

Safety at a glance
OverallLikely safe

Ginger is generally well tolerated in typical food and supplement amounts for most healthy adults.

PregnancyLikely Safe

When consumed in the amounts typically found in foods. Ginger is considered a first-line nonpharmacological treatment option for nausea in pregnancy b...

Read the full pregnancy detail
BreastfeedingLikely Safe

When consumed in the amounts typically found in foods. There is insufficient reliable information available about the safety of ginger when used for m...

Read the full breastfeeding detail

Pregnancy & breastfeeding ratings are from Natural Medicines (Therapeutic Research Center). Safety guidance is general; always confirm with your pharmacist or doctor for your situation.

Jump to a section

Overview

Ginger is the underground stem, or rhizome, of the plant Zingiber officinale. It belongs to the same plant family as turmeric and cardamom. Ginger is native to Asia and is now grown in warm regions around the world, including India, China, and parts of Africa and the Caribbean.

People have used ginger for thousands of years as both a spice and a folk remedy. It has a warm, spicy, slightly sweet flavor and is used fresh, dried, powdered, or as an oil in cooking and drinks.

As a supplement, ginger comes in capsules, tablets, teas, candies, and liquid extracts. Some products are standardized to contain a certain amount of ginger's active compounds, often listed as 'ginger root extract.'

How it works

Ginger contains many active compounds. The most studied are gingerols and shogaols, which give ginger its spicy taste and are thought to be responsible for many of its effects.

Researchers believe ginger may ease nausea by acting on the digestive tract and on signals in the gut and brain that trigger vomiting. It may also help food move through the stomach. For pain and swelling, ginger compounds appear to lower the activity of certain inflammatory chemicals in the body.

Many of these mechanisms come from laboratory and animal studies. While they help explain how ginger might work, they do not prove that it will produce the same effects in every person.

Effectiveness

Does Ginger work?

Here’s what the research actually shows for each use — graded by Natural Medicines and reviewed by .

Evidence overview · 52 uses evaluated
3 Possibly effective 3 Leans ineffective 46 Insufficient evidence
How to read these evidence grades

Natural Medicines’ 7-point scale. We show each rating’s label word-for-word.

1EffectiveStrong, consistent evidence it works.
2Likely EffectiveGood evidence, though not yet conclusive.
3Possibly EffectiveSome evidence suggests a benefit.
4Possibly IneffectiveSome evidence it may not help.
5Likely IneffectiveFairly strong evidence it doesn’t help.
6IneffectiveStrong evidence it doesn’t work.
7Insufficient Reliable Evidence to RateToo little research to say either way.
Possibly Effective Dysmenorrhea
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

In people with dysmenorrhea, taking oral ginger seems to reduce pain. Clinical research shows that ginger might be comparable to ibuprofen or mefenamic acid. In addition, taking ginger seems to be beneficial when used as an adjunct to mefenamic acid 250 mg twice daily.

Possibly Effective Osteoarthritis
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

Most clinical research shows that taking ginger extract by mouth improves pain in some patients with osteoarthritis. Topical ginger, on the other hand, has not shown benefit for knee osteoarthritis in low quality research.

Possibly Effective Pregnancy-induced nausea and vomiting
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

Oral ginger seems to reduce the severity of nausea and vomiting in some people during pregnancy. Ginger seems to be more effective than placebo, comparable to vitamin B6 or dimenhydrinate, and less effective than metoclopramide.

Possibly Ineffective Chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting (CINV)
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

Most clinical research shows that oral ginger does not reduce acute or delayed CINV. The effect of ginger might depend on the dose, the other antiemetics used, or the specific chemotherapy regimen.

Possibly Ineffective Exercise-induced muscle soreness
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

Most research shows that oral ginger in single or multiple doses does not prevent or treat exercise-induced muscle soreness.

Possibly Ineffective Motion sickness
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

Most research shows that oral ginger does not prevent or treat motion sickness.

Also studied for 46 conditions — evidence insufficient to rate
Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS)
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

Some small clinical studies show that giving ginger with tube feeds to hospitalized patients might reduce the duration of serious sequelae from ARDS.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Allergic rhinitis (hay fever)
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

It is unclear if oral ginger is beneficial in allergic rhinitis.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Antiretroviral-induced nausea and vomiting
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

Oral ginger seems to improve nausea and vomiting in patients using antiretroviral agents.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Asthma
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

Although there has been interest in using oral ginger for asthma, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of ginger for this condition.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Atopic dermatitis (eczema)
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

Topical ginger has only been evaluated in combination with other ingredients; its effect when used alone is unclear.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Back pain
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

Although there has been interest in using oral ginger for back pain, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of ginger for this condition.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Burns
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

Although there has been interest in using topical ginger for burns, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of ginger for this condition.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Cancer-related anorexia
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

It is unclear if oral ginger improves appetite in people with cancer-related anorexia.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

Oral ginger has only been evaluated in combination with other ingredients; its effect when used alone is unclear.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Colic
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

Although there has been interest in using oral ginger for colic, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of ginger for this condition.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Constipation
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

Although there has been interest in using oral ginger for constipation, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of ginger for this condition.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19)
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

It is unclear whether oral ginger is beneficial for patients with COVID-19.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Diabetes
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

Some preliminary clinical studies suggest that oral ginger might have a small beneficial effect on glycemic control in patients with type 2 diabetes or gestational diabetes.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Diabetic neuropathy
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

Topical ginger has only been evaluated in combination with other ingredients; its effect when used alone is unclear.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Diarrhea
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

Although there has been interest in using oral ginger for various types of diarrhea, including cholera and acute bacterial dysentery, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of ginger for these conditions.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Dry mouth
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

It is unclear if rinsing the mouth with ginger extract is beneficial for dry mouth.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Dyspepsia
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

It is unclear if oral ginger is beneficial for dyspepsia.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Erectile dysfunction (ED)
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

It is unclear if oral ginger is beneficial for erectile dysfunction.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Hangover
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

It is unclear if oral ginger is beneficial for managing symptoms of hangover.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Hyperlipidemia
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

Oral ginger may be modestly beneficial for some patients with hyperlipidemia.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Hypertension
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

It is unclear if oral ginger is beneficial for lowering blood pressure.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Hypothyroidism
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

It is unclear if oral ginger is beneficial in patients with hypothyroidism.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Insect bite
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

It is unclear if topical ginger is beneficial for reducing the size of insect bites.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Intraoperative nausea and vomiting (IONV)
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

It is unclear if oral ginger is beneficial for preventing IONV.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

Oral ginger might reduce symptoms of IBS when used in combination with other ingredients; its effect when used alone is unclear.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Joint pain
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

Oral ginger has only been evaluated in combination with other ingredients; its effect when used alone is unclear.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Menopausal symptoms
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

Although there has been interest in using oral ginger for menopausal symptoms such as insomnia, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of ginger for this purpose.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Menorrhagia
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

It is unclear if oral ginger is beneficial for menorrhagia.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Migraine headache
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

Small clinical studies suggest that oral ginger may modestly reduce migraine pain severity and duration. However, taking ginger doesn't seem to PREVENT migraines.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Multiple sclerosis (MS)
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

It is unclear if oral ginger is beneficial for MS.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD)
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

It is unclear if oral ginger is beneficial for NAFLD.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Obesity
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

Oral ginger has primarily been evaluated in combination with other ingredients; its effect when used alone is unclear.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Parturition
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

It is unclear if bathing in a ginger bath is beneficial for shortening the duration of labor.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

It is unclear if oral ginger is beneficial for females with PCOS.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV)
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

Evidence for the use of oral ginger for preventing PONV is inconclusive and conflicting. Reasons for the conflicting findings may relate to the ginger formulation used and the outcomes measured. It is unclear if ginger aromatherapy is beneficial for PONV.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Postoperative recovery
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

It is unclear if oral ginger is beneficial for postoperative recovery.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Postpartum complications
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

It is unclear if oral ginger is beneficial in patients with postpartum pain.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Radiation-induced nausea and vomiting
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

It is unclear if oral ginger is beneficial in patients with radiation-induced nausea and vomiting.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Rheumatoid arthritis (RA)
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

One small clinical study suggests that oral ginger may improve some symptoms of RA.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Smoking cessation
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

Oral ginger has only been evaluated in combination with other ingredients; its effect when used alone is unclear.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Swallowing dysfunction
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

The effects of oral ginger for treating swallowing dysfunction are inconclusive. Reasons for the conflicting findings may relate to the route of administration or the number of treatments provided.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Toxin-induced liver damage
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

Oral ginger might help to prevent liver damage in patients using antimycobacterial drugs.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Traumatic brain injury (TBI)
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

Oral ginger has only been evaluated in combination with other ingredients; its effect when used alone is unclear.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Ulcerative colitis
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

It is unclear if oral ginger is beneficial for improving symptoms of ulcerative colitis.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Upper respiratory tract infection (URTI)
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

Although there has been interest in using oral ginger for various upper respiratory tract infections, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of ginger for this condition.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Vertigo
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

It is unclear if oral ginger is beneficial for improving symptoms of vertigo.

Source & disclaimer. Effectiveness ratings and evidence summaries are provided by Natural Medicines (Therapeutic Research Center) and shown as licensed. Where Natural Medicines hasn’t rated a use, HelloPharmacist’s pharmacists may add their own reviewed rating and evidence (each such entry is labeled). This is educational information, not medical advice — talk with your pharmacist or doctor before starting, stopping, or changing a supplement.

Safety & precautions

Ginger is widely used as a food and is considered safe for most people in normal food and supplement amounts. Higher doses are more likely to cause mild side effects.

Use extra caution if you have a bleeding disorder or are scheduled for surgery, since ginger may slightly affect blood clotting. People with gallstones should also check with a doctor, because ginger can increase the flow of bile.

For pregnancy, ginger is often used to reduce morning sickness, and moderate amounts are generally considered acceptable. Still, you should talk with your doctor before using ginger supplements while pregnant and avoid very high doses. For breastfeeding, there is not enough reliable information, so it is safest to stick to food amounts and check with your doctor before using supplements.

Side effects

Ginger is usually well tolerated. When side effects happen, they are typically mild and may include heartburn, stomach discomfort, gas, burping, or a burning feeling in the mouth or throat.

Higher doses are more likely to cause digestive upset. Rarely, some people may have an allergic reaction. Stop using ginger and seek medical help if you notice signs such as rash, swelling, or trouble breathing.

Ginger: Reported Adverse Effects

Documented safety reports on Ginger from the evidence-graded Natural Medicines (TRC Healthcare) database, shown word-for-word from the licensed record.

Orally, ginger is generally well tolerated. However, higher doses of 5 grams per day increase the risk of side effects and reduce tolerability. Topically, ginger seems to be well tolerated.

Most Common Adverse Effects:

Orally: Abdominal discomfort, burping, diarrhea, heartburn, and a pepper-like irritant effect in the mouth and throat. However, some of these mild symptoms may be reduced by ingesting encapsulated ginger in place of powdered ginger.

Topically: Dermatitis in sensitive individuals.

Reports by condition
Arrhythmia Cardiovascular

Orally, use of ginger resulted in mild arrhythmia in one patient in a clinical trial.

  1. Chittumma P, Kaewkiattikun K, Wiriyasiriwach B. Comparison of the effectiveness of ginger and vitamin B6 for treatment of nausea and vomiting in early pregnancy: a randomized double-blind controlled trial. J Med Assoc Thai 2007;90:15-20.
Constipation Gastrointestinal

Orally, common side effects of ginger include nausea, belching, dry mouth, dry retching, vomiting, burning sensation, oral numbness, abdominal discomfort, heartburn, diarrhea, constipation, or a transient burning or "chilly hot" sensation of the tongue and throat. Orally, Number Ten, a specific product composed of rhubarb, ginger, astragalus, red sage, and turmeric, can increase the incidence of loose stools.

Four cases of small bowel obstruction due to ginger bolus have been reported following the ingestion of raw ginger without sufficient mastication (chewing). In each case, the bolus was removed by enterotomy. Ginger is composed of cellulose and therefore is resistant to digestion. It can absorb water, which may cause it to swell and become lodged in narrow areas of the digestive tract.

  1. Black CD, Herring MP, Hurley DJ, O'Connor PJ. Ginger (Zingiber officinale) reduces muscle pain caused by eccentric exercise. J Pain 2010;11:894-903.
  2. Cady RK, Goldstein J, Nett R, et al. A double-blind placebo-controlled pilot study of sublingual feverfew and ginger (LipiGesic M) in the treatment of migraine. Headache 2011;51:1078-86.
  3. Paramdeep G. Efficacy and tolerability of ginger (Zingiber officinale) in patients of osteoarthritis of knee. Indian J Physiol Pharmacol 2013;57(2):177-83.
  4. Martins LB, Rodrigues AMDS, Monteze NM, et al. Double-blind placebo-controlled randomized clinical trial of ginger (Zingiber officinale Rosc.) in the prophylactic treatment of migraine. Cephalalgia. 2020;40(1):88-95.
  5. Smith C, Crowther C, Willson K, et al. A randomized controlled trial of ginger to treat nausea and vomiting in pregnancy. Obstet Gynecol 2004;103:639-45.
  6. Yamprasert R, Chanvimalueng W, Mukkasombut N, Itharat A. Ginger extract versus Loratadine in the treatment of allergic rhinitis: a randomized controlled trial. BMC Complement Med Ther. 2020;20(1):116.
  7. Vutyavanich T, Kraisarin T, Ruangsri R. Ginger for nausea and vomiting in pregnancy: randomized, double-masked, placebo-controlled trial. Obstet Gynecol 2001;97:577-82.
  8. Bartels EM, Folmer VN, Bliddal H, et al. Efficacy and safety of ginger in osteoarthritis patients: a meta-analysis of randomized placebo-controlled trials. Osteoarthritis Cartilage. 2015;23(1):13-21.
  9. Stewart JJ, Wood MJ, Wood CD, Mims ME. Effects of ginger on motion sickness susceptibility and gastric function. Pharmacology 1991;42:111-20.
  10. Wigler I, Grotto I, Caspi D, Yaron M. The effects of Zintona EC (a ginger extract) on symptomatic gonarthritis. Osteoarthritis Cartilage 2003;11:783-9.
  11. Chittumma P, Kaewkiattikun K, Wiriyasiriwach B. Comparison of the effectiveness of ginger and vitamin B6 for treatment of nausea and vomiting in early pregnancy: a randomized double-blind controlled trial. J Med Assoc Thai 2007;90:15-20.
  12. Ryan JL, Heckler CE, Roscoe JA, et al. Ginger (Zingiber officinale) reduces acute chemotherapy-induced nausea: a URCC CCOP study of 576 patients. Support Care Cancer. 2012;20:1479-89.
  13. Sripramote, M. and Lekhyananda, N. A randomized comparison of ginger and vitamin B6 in the treatment of nausea and vomiting of pregnancy. J Med Assoc.Thai. 2003;86(9):846-853.
  14. Maghbooli M, Golipour F, Moghimi Esfandabadi A, Yousefi M. Comparison between the efficacy of ginger and sumatriptan in the ablative treatment of the common migraine. Phytother Res 2014;28(3):412-5.
  15. Mahluji S, Attari VE, Mobasseri M, Payahoo L, Ostadrahimi A, Golzari SE. Effects of ginger (Zingiber officinale) on plasma glucose level, HbA1c and insulin sensitivity in type 2 diabetic patients. Int J Food Sci Nutr 2013;64(6):682-6.
  16. Rahnama P, Montazeri A, Huseini HF, Kianbakht S, Naseri M. Effect of Zingiber officinale R. rhizomes (ginger) on pain relief in primary dysmenorrhea: a placebo randomized trial. BMC Complement Altern Med 2012;12:92.
  17. Crichton M, Marshall S, Marx W, McCarthy AL, Isenring E. Efficacy of ginger (Zingiber officinale) in ameliorating chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting and chemotherapy-related outcomes: A systematic review update and meta-analysis. J Acad Nutr Diet. 2
  18. Martins LB, Rodrigues AMDS, Rodrigues DF, Dos Santos LC, Teixeira AL, Ferreira AVM. Double-blind placebo-controlled randomized clinical trial of ginger (Zingiber officinale Rosc.) addition in migraine acute treatment. Cephalalgia. 2019;39(1):68-76.
  19. Rostamkhani H, Veisi P, Niknafs B, Jafarabadi MA, Ghoreishi Z. The effect of zingiber officinale on prooxidant-antioxidant balance and glycemic control in diabetic patients with ESRD undergoing hemodialysis: a double-blind randomized control trial. BMC Co
  20. Lohsiriwat, S., Rukkiat, M., Chaikomin, R., and Leelakusolvong, S. Effect of ginger on lower esophageal sphincter pressure. J.Med.Assoc.Thai. 2010;93(3):366-372.
  21. Greenway FL, Liu Z, Martin CK, et al. Safety and efficacy of NT, an herbal supplement, in treating human obesity. Int J Obes (Lond). 2006;30:1737-41.
  22. Liu, P. H. and Ho, H. L. Ginger and drug bezoar induced small bowel obstruction. J R.Coll.Surg.Edinb. 1983;28(6):397-398.
Dermatitis Dermatologic

Orally, ginger can cause hives, as well as bruising and flushing or rash.

Topically, ginger can cause dermatitis in sensitive individuals.

  1. Black CD, Herring MP, Hurley DJ, O'Connor PJ. Ginger (Zingiber officinale) reduces muscle pain caused by eccentric exercise. J Pain 2010;11:894-903.
  2. Ryan JL, Heckler CE, Roscoe JA, et al. Ginger (Zingiber officinale) reduces acute chemotherapy-induced nausea: a URCC CCOP study of 576 patients. Support Care Cancer. 2012;20:1479-89.
  3. Kanerva L, Estlander T, Jolanki R. Occupational allergic contact dermatitis from spices. Contact Dermatitis 1996;35:157-62.
  4. Futrell, J. M. and Rietschel, R. L. Spice allergy evaluated by results of patch tests. Cutis 1993;52(5):288-290.
Motion sickness Immunologic

In one case report, a 59-year-old Japanese female with multiple allergic sensitivities developed pruritus and then anaphylactic shock after taking an oral ginger-containing herbal supplement for motion sickness (Keimei Gashinsan, Keimeido). The patient had used this supplement previously for over 20 years with no allergic reaction. The authors theorized the development of a cross-reactivity to ginger after the use of an oral supplement containing zedoary and turmeric, which are also in the Zingiberaceae family.

  1. Okuhira H, Nakatani Y, Furukawa F, Kanazawa N. Anaphylaxis to ginger induced by herbal medicine. Allergol Int. 2020;69(1):159-160.
Myasthenia gravis Genitourinary

In one clinical trial, some patients reported increased menstrual bleeding while taking a specific ginger extract (Zintoma, Goldaru) 250 mg four times daily orally for 3 days. An "intense" urge to urinate after 30 minutes was reported in two of eight patients given 0.5-1 gram of ginger. However, this effect has not been corroborated elsewhere. Dysuria, flank pain, perineal pain, and urinary stream interruption have been reported in a 43-year-old male who drank ginger tea, containing 2-3 teaspoons of dry ginger, daily over 15 years. The adverse effects persisted for 4 years and were not associated with increases in urinary frequency or urgency. Upon discontinuing ginger, the patient's symptoms began to improve within one week and completely resolved after eight weeks, with no relapses six months later.

  1. Ozgoli G, Goli M, Moattar F. Comparison of effects of ginger, mefenamic acid, and ibuprofen on pain in women with primary dysmenorrhea. J Altern Complement Med 2009;15:129-32.
  2. Stewart JJ, Wood MJ, Wood CD, Mims ME. Effects of ginger on motion sickness susceptibility and gastric function. Pharmacology 1991;42:111-20.
  3. Akbarzadeh E, Heydari M, Atarzadeh F, Jaladat AM. Chronic dysuria following ginger (Zingiber officinale) use: a case report. Galen Med J 2018;7:e1086.
Vertigo Neurologic/CNS

Orally, ginger may cause sedation, drowsiness, or dizziness.

  1. Chittumma P, Kaewkiattikun K, Wiriyasiriwach B. Comparison of the effectiveness of ginger and vitamin B6 for treatment of nausea and vomiting in early pregnancy: a randomized double-blind controlled trial. J Med Assoc Thai 2007;90:15-20.
  2. Black CD, Herring MP, Hurley DJ, O'Connor PJ. Ginger (Zingiber officinale) reduces muscle pain caused by eccentric exercise. J Pain 2010;11:894-903.
  3. Sripramote, M. and Lekhyananda, N. A randomized comparison of ginger and vitamin B6 in the treatment of nausea and vomiting of pregnancy. J Med Assoc.Thai. 2003;86(9):846-853.
DISCLAIMER: This tool is intended for informational purposes only, and should not be interpreted as specific medical advice. Patients should consult with a qualified healthcare provider before making decisions about therapies and/or health conditions.

Adverse-effects data: Natural Medicines, Therapeutic Research Center

Dosing

There is no single official dose of ginger that works for every person or every condition. The right amount can depend on the form you use and the reason you are taking it.

Because supplement strengths vary, the best approach is to follow the directions on the product label and not exceed the recommended amount. If you are using ginger for a specific health problem, such as nausea during pregnancy or chemotherapy, ask your pharmacist or doctor what amount and form is right for you.

Standardized 'ginger root extract' products may list a specific amount per dose, but more is not always better. Start low, watch how you feel, and check with a healthcare professional if you are unsure.

Pregnancy & Breastfeeding

Ginger & Pregnancy

Likely Safe

When consumed in the amounts typically found in foods. Ginger is considered a first-line nonpharmacological treatment option for nausea in pregnancy by the American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology (ACOG). However, it should not be used long-term or without medical supervision and close monitoring.

  1. Committee on Practice Bulletins-Obstetrics. ACOG Practice Bulletin No. 189: Nausea And Vomiting Of Pregnancy. Obstet Gynecol. 2018;131(1):e15-e30.
Possibly Safe

When used for medicinal purposes. Despite some early reports of adverse effects and one observational study suggesting that taking dried ginger and other herbal supplements during the first 20 weeks of pregnancy marginally increased the chance of stillbirth, most research shows that ginger is unlikely to cause harm to the baby. The risk for major malformations in infants of parents who took ginger when pregnant does not appear to be higher than the baseline rate of 1% to 3%. Also, other research suggests that ginger intake during various trimesters does not significantly affect the risk of spontaneous abortion, congenital malformations, stillbirth, perinatal death, preterm birth, low birth weight, or low Apgar scores. Ginger use has been associated with an increase in non-severe vaginal bleeding, including spotting, after week 17 of pregnancy.

  1. Fischer-Rasmussen W, Kjaer SK, Dahl C, Asping U. Ginger treatment of hyperemesis gravidarum. Eur J Obstet Gynecol Reprod Biol 1991;38:19-24.
  2. Backon J. Ginger in preventing nausea and vomiting of pregnancy; a caveat due to its thromboxane synthetase activity and effect on testosterone binding. Eur J Obstet Gynecol Reprod Biol 1991;42:163-4.
  3. Choi JS, Han JY, Ahn HK, et al. Assessment of fetal and neonatal outcomes in the offspring of women who had been treated with dried ginger (Zingiberis rhizoma siccus) for a variety of illnesses during pregnancy. J Obstet Gynaecol. 2015;35(2):125-30.
  4. Jewell D, Young G. Interventions for nausea and vomiting in early pregnancy. Cochrane Database Syst Rev 2000;(2):CD000145.
  5. Vutyavanich T, Kraisarin T, Ruangsri R. Ginger for nausea and vomiting in pregnancy: randomized, double-masked, placebo-controlled trial. Obstet Gynecol 2001;97:577-82.
  6. Portnoi G, Chng LA, Karimi-Tabesh L, et al. Prospective comparative study of the safety and effectiveness of ginger for the treatment of nausea and vomiting in pregnancy. Am J Obstet Gynecol 2003;189:1374-7..
  7. Borrelli F, Capasso R, Aviello G, et al. Effectiveness and safety of ginger in the treatment of pregnancy-induced nausea and vomiting. Obstet Gynecol 2005;105:849-56.
  8. Smith C, Crowther C, Wilson K et al. A randomized controlled trial of ginger to treat nausea and vomiting in pregnancy. Obstet Gynecol 2004;103:639-45.
  9. Heitmann K, Nordeng H, Holst L. Safety of ginger use in pregnancy: results from a large population-based cohort study. Eur J Clin Pharmacol 2012 Jun 17.
  10. Viljoen E, Visser J, Koen N, Musekiwa A. A systematic review and meta-analysis of the effect and safety of ginger in the treatment of pregnancy-associated nausea and vomiting. Nutr J 2014;13:20.

Ginger & Breastfeeding

Likely Safe

When consumed in the amounts typically found in foods. There is insufficient reliable information available about the safety of ginger when used for medicinal purposes; avoid amounts greater than those found in foods.

DISCLAIMER: This tool is intended for informational purposes only, and should not be interpreted as specific medical advice. Patients should consult with a qualified healthcare provider before making decisions about therapies and/or health conditions.

© 2026 Therapeutic Research Center

Pregnancy & lactation ratings: Natural Medicines, Therapeutic Research Center

References & further reading

The 64 references that drive our Ginger monograph and interaction data, from the evidence-graded Natural Medicines (TRC Healthcare) database. Citations with a link open the study on PubMed or the publisher’s site.

  1. Fischer-Rasmussen W, Kjaer SK, Dahl C, Asping U. Ginger treatment of hyperemesis gravidarum. Eur J Obstet Gynecol Reprod Biol 1991;38:19-24. PubMed
  2. Jewell D, Young G. Interventions for nausea and vomiting in early pregnancy. Cochrane Database Syst Rev 2000;(2):CD000145. PubMed
  3. Vutyavanich T, Kraisarin T, Ruangsri R. Ginger for nausea and vomiting in pregnancy: randomized, double-masked, placebo-controlled trial. Obstet Gynecol 2001;97:577-82. DOI
  4. Backon J. Ginger in preventing nausea and vomiting of pregnancy; a caveat due to its thromboxane synthetase activity and effect on testosterone binding. Eur J Obstet Gynecol Reprod Biol 1991;42:163-4. PubMed
  5. Srivastava KC. Effect of onion and ginger consumption on platelet thromboxane production in humans. Prostaglandins Leukot Essent Fatty Acids 1989;35:183-5. PubMed
  6. Stewart JJ, Wood MJ, Wood CD, Mims ME. Effects of ginger on motion sickness susceptibility and gastric function. Pharmacology 1991;42:111-20. PubMed
  7. Smith C, Crowther C, Willson K, et al. A randomized controlled trial of ginger to treat nausea and vomiting in pregnancy. Obstet Gynecol 2004;103:639-45. PubMed
  8. Portnoi G, Chng LA, Karimi-Tabesh L, et al. Prospective comparative study of the safety and effectiveness of ginger for the treatment of nausea and vomiting in pregnancy. Am J Obstet Gynecol 2003;189:1374-7.. PubMed
  9. Wigler I, Grotto I, Caspi D, Yaron M. The effects of Zintona EC (a ginger extract) on symptomatic gonarthritis. Osteoarthritis Cartilage 2003;11:783-9. PubMed
  10. Ghayur MN, Gilani AH. Ginger lowers blood pressure through blockade of voltage-dependent calcium channels. J Cardiovasc Pharmacol 2005;45:74-80. PubMed
  11. Thomson M, Al-Qattan KK, Al-Sawan SM, et al. The use of ginger (Zingiber officinale Rosc.) as a potential anti-inflammatory and antithrombotic agent. Prostaglandins Leukot Essent Fatty Acids 2002;67:475-8. PubMed
  12. Kanerva L, Estlander T, Jolanki R. Occupational allergic contact dermatitis from spices. Contact Dermatitis 1996;35:157-62. PubMed
  13. Akhani SP, Vishwakarma SL, Goyal RK. Anti-diabetic activity of Zingiber officinale in streptozotocin-induced type I diabetic rats. J Pharm Pharmacol 2004;56:101-5.
  14. Kruth P, Brosi E, Fux R, et al. Ginger-associated overanticoagulation by phenprocoumon. Ann Pharmacother 2004;38:257-60. PubMed
  15. Jiang X, Williams KM, Liauw WS, et al. Effect of ginkgo and ginger on the pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of warfarin in healthy subjects. Br J Clin Pharmacol 2005;59:425-32. PubMed
Keep reading

This information is for education only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always check with your pharmacist or doctor before starting, stopping, or combining supplements and medications.

Parts of this content are provided by the Therapeutic Research Center, LLC.

DISCLAIMER: Currently this does not check for drug-drug interactions. This is not an all-inclusive comprehensive list of potential interactions and is for informational purposes only. Not all interactions are known or well-reported in the scientific literature, and new interactions are continually being reported. Input is needed from a qualified healthcare provider including a pharmacist before starting any therapy. Application of clinical judgment is necessary.

© 2021 Therapeutic Research Center, LLC

Brand directory

Brands that make products with Ginger

1,269 brands in our database make a supplement containing Ginger.

Product directory

Supplement products with Ginger

9,842 products in our database contain Ginger. Open any to see its full ingredient list and every drug interaction we check.

#12 UR-Kid by Nutri-West Herbals Tablet Or Pill 100 Tablet(s) View ingredients & interactions #3 - GB-LIV by Nutri-West Herbals Tablet Or Pill 100 Tablet(s) View ingredients & interactions #4 - B -P by Nutri-West Herbals Tablet Or Pill 100 Tablet(s) View ingredients & interactions +Digestive Stomach Soothing Complex by Shaklee Tablet Or Pill 90 Tablet(s) View ingredients & interactions 1.M.R Blue Raspberry by BPI Powder 4.9 oz. · 140 Gram(s) View ingredients & interactions 1.M.R Fruit Punch by BPI Powder 4.9 oz. · 140 g View ingredients & interactions 1.M.R Pink Lemonade by BPI Powder 4.9 oz. · 140 g View ingredients & interactions 1.M.R Watermelon by BPI Powder 6 oz. · 170 g View ingredients & interactions 1.M.R Watermelon by BPI Powder 6 oz. · 170 Gram(s) View ingredients & interactions 10 Billion Probiotic with Prebiotic Fiber Blend by Safrel Capsule 60 Capsule(s) View ingredients & interactions 10-Day Acai Berry Easy-Cleanse by Applied Nutrition Tablet Or Pill 40 Tablet(s) View ingredients & interactions 10-Day Acai Berry Super-Cleanse by Irwin Naturals Softgel Capsule 60 Liquid Soft-Gel(s) View ingredients & interactions 100% Organic Elderberry Immune Tea by Earth Mama Organics Other (e.g. Tea Bag) 16 Tea Bag(s) · 0.98 Ounce(s) · 28 Gram(s) View ingredients & interactions 100% Organic Periodic Tea Revitalizing Herb & Cinnamon by Earth Mama Organics Other (e.g. Tea Bag) 16 Tea Bag(s) · 1.23 Ounce(s) · 35 Gram(s) View ingredients & interactions 14 Day Teatox by Teatox Life Other (e.g. Tea Bag) 2.45 Ounce(s) · 70 Gram(s) View ingredients & interactions 14-Day Acai Berry Cleanse by Applied Nutrition Tablet Or Pill 56 Tablet(s) View ingredients & interactions 14-Day Acai Berry Cleanse by Applied Nutrition Tablet Or Pill 56 Tablet(s) View ingredients & interactions 15 Day Colon Detox & Ginger by dr.bo Capsule 30 Capsule(s) View ingredients & interactions 15-Day Weight Loss Support Cleanse & Flush by Nature's Secret Tablet Or Pill 60 Tablet(s) View ingredients & interactions 2-in-1 Cleanse & Flush by Irwin Naturals Softgel Capsule 60 Liquid Softgel(s) View ingredients & interactions 2-in-1 Kidney & Liver Super Cleanse by Irwin Naturals Softgel Capsule 60 Liquid Soft-Gel(s) View ingredients & interactions 3 Day Cleanse & Detox by Vitinity Tablet Or Pill 9 Tablet(s) View ingredients & interactions 3 Echinacea by Woodstock Vitamins Liquid 1 Fluid Ounce(s) · 30 Milliliter(s) View ingredients & interactions 3 Echinacea by L.A. Naturals Liquid 1 fl. Oz. · 30 mL View ingredients & interactions
Pharmacist Counseling Corner

Ginger: Common Questions

What is Ginger used for, and does it work?
People use Ginger for many reasons, but the evidence varies by use. According to the Natural Medicines database, there is at least some clinical evidence supporting Ginger for Dysmenorrhea, Osteoarthritis and Pregnancy-induced nausea and vomiting. For most other uses it has been studied for, the evidence is currently insufficient to rate. See the graded list on this page, and always confirm with your pharmacist or doctor.
Does Ginger interact with prescription medications?
Yes. We list 1007 medications with a known interaction with Ginger. Use the checker above to see how Ginger interacts with a specific drug.
How are Ginger interactions rated?
Each interaction is graded major, moderate, or minor based on how clinically significant it is and the strength of the evidence behind it. Major interactions are the most serious and are best avoided, or used only under close professional supervision.
Is it safe to take Ginger with my medications?
It depends on the specific medication. Some combinations are fine, while others call for monitoring, timing changes, or should be avoided. Check your exact drug above and confirm with your pharmacist or doctor before starting, stopping, or changing anything.
Where does this Ginger interaction information come from?
Our interaction data is built on the Natural Medicines database — an evidence-graded reference for vitamins, herbs, and supplements — and is reviewed by licensed HelloPharmacist pharmacists, who may add clinical context.
What is Ginger most commonly used for?
Ginger is most often used to ease nausea and vomiting, including from motion sickness, pregnancy, surgery, and chemotherapy. People also use it for general digestive upset, menstrual cramps, and joint pain, though the evidence for these is weaker.
Is Ginger safe to take during pregnancy?
Ginger is commonly used in moderate amounts to help with morning sickness, and it is generally considered acceptable. Still, you should talk with your doctor before using Ginger supplements during pregnancy and avoid very high doses.
Can Ginger cause side effects?
Yes, but they are usually mild. The most common are heartburn, gas, stomach upset, or a burning feeling in the mouth. These are more likely at higher doses.
Is fresh Ginger better than supplements?
Both can be useful. Fresh Ginger, teas, and supplements all contain the same active compounds, but supplement strength varies, so follow the label and ask your pharmacist if you are unsure which form to use.

Written and reviewed by the HelloPharmacist editorial staff. Our editorial policy

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