Ginger for Nausea: What the Evidence Says
Research suggests ginger may help with nausea and vomiting in pregnancy, but most studies of ginger for motion sickness have not found a benefit, and results for chemotherapy or post-surgery nausea are uncertain. Ginger is generally safe as food, but supplements can cause stomach side effects and may interact with medicines.
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Key takeaways
- Ginger may help nausea and vomiting in pregnancy (US National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health).
- Most studies don't show ginger helps motion sickness.
- Evidence for chemotherapy or post-surgery nausea is uncertain; don't use it instead of prescribed treatment.
- Supplements can cause heartburn, stomach discomfort or diarrhoea, and herbs can interact with medicines.
On this page
Where the idea comes from
Ginger root has been used in traditional medicine for centuries for indigestion, colds and stomach upsets. Today it's widely promoted for nausea and vomiting, joint pain and period cramps. But how much is backed by evidence?
What the evidence shows
Summary based on the US National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH):
| Use | What research shows |
|---|---|
| Nausea and vomiting in pregnancy | May help |
| Motion sickness | Most studies haven't shown a benefit |
| Nausea from chemotherapy | Uncertain whether it adds to standard treatment |
| Nausea after surgery | Uncertain |
| Period cramps | Supplements might reduce severity |
| Knee osteoarthritis | Supplements might help, but much of the research is poor quality. Ginger applied to the skin hasn't been shown to help |
Many studies have been small or low quality, and most tested supplements, not ginger in food or drinks.
Side effects
As a food, ginger is very commonly eaten. As a supplement, it can cause:
- abdominal discomfort
- heartburn
- diarrhoea
- mouth and throat irritation
Interactions and safety
- Medicines: some herbs interact harmfully with medicines. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist before taking ginger supplements if you take any regular medicine.
- Pregnancy: ginger supplements may be safe, but check with your midwife or doctor first.
- Breastfeeding: little is known about safety.
- Quality: in many countries, herbal supplements aren't tested and approved like medicines before they're sold, so strength and purity can vary.
When nausea needs a doctor
Ginger isn't a substitute for medical care. Get help if you can't keep fluids down, have signs of dehydration (very dark urine, dizziness), vomit blood, have severe abdominal pain, or have pregnancy sickness that stops you eating or drinking. Severe pregnancy sickness (hyperemesis gravidarum) needs medical treatment.
Common questions
Is ginger safe in pregnancy?
NCCIH says ginger supplements during pregnancy may be safe, but advises talking to your health care provider first, as with all herbal supplements. Little is known about safety while breastfeeding.
Does ginger tea count?
Most studies tested ginger dietary supplements rather than foods or teas, so we know less about how much benefit ginger tea, biscuits or sweets provide.
Sources
- Ginger: Usefulness and Safety (opens in a new tab) — National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH), NIH
