Ginger is one of those kitchen staples that does way more than add flavor to your stir-fry. It's been used for thousands of years in Traditional Chinese Medicine and Ayurveda—and modern research continues to back up what herbalists have always known: ginger is a powerhouse for digestion, hormones, and inflammation.
As a naturopathic doctor, I recommend ginger often in my practice. It's gentle, accessible, inexpensive and incredibly effective for a range of concerns, from nausea and period pain to sluggish digestion and inflammation.
Here are five of my favorite ways to use ginger, backed by both tradition and science.
1. Nausea Relief (Including Morning Sickness)
Ginger is probably best known for its ability to calm nausea—and it really works. Whether you're dealing with motion sickness, post-surgical nausea, or pregnancy-related morning sickness, ginger has been shown to reduce symptoms effectively. The best part? It's safe, gentle, and doesn't come with the side effects of many anti-nausea medications.
2. Heavy or Painful Periods
If you experience heavy menstrual bleeding or intense cramping, ginger might become your new best friend. Studies have shown that ginger can reduce menstrual blood loss and help manage period pain—sometimes as effectively as over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen.
Ginger works by reducing inflammation and inhibiting prostaglandins, the compounds responsible for triggering uterine contractions and pain. It also supports healthy blood flow, which can help regulate cycles over time.
3. Improved Gastric Emptying and Digestion
Feeling bloated, heavy, or uncomfortably full after meals? Ginger helps stimulate gastric emptying, which is the process of moving food from your stomach into your small intestine. When digestion is sluggish, food sits in the stomach longer, leading to bloating, nausea, and discomfort.
Ginger also stimulates digestive enzymes and bile production, which support the breakdown of fats and proteins. This makes it especially helpful if you experience that "food sitting like a brick" feeling after eating.
4. Inflammation and Joint Pain
Ginger contains powerful anti-inflammatory compounds called gingerols, which have been shown to reduce inflammation and pain, particularly in conditions like osteoarthritis and general joint stiffness. Ginger's anti-inflammatory effects also extend to the gut, making it useful for conditions like IBS, inflammatory bowel disease, or general digestive inflammation.
5. Immune Support During Cold Season
Ginger has natural antimicrobial and immune-supportive properties, making it a go-to during cold and flu season. It helps thin mucus, ease congestion, and support the body's natural defenses. Combined with garlic and onion, ginger becomes a powerful tool in your winter wellness toolkit.
The warming nature of ginger also promotes circulation, which can help the body fight off infections more effectively.
Final Thoughts
Ginger is one of those simple, accessible remedies that can make a real difference in how you feel, whether you're navigating pregnancy nausea, painful periods, sluggish digestion, or seasonal colds. It's gentle, effective, and backed by both traditional wisdom and modern research.
If you're dealing with hormone imbalances, digestive concerns, or chronic inflammation, ginger might be one piece of a larger puzzle. Through my Hormone Cornerstone Method, I help patients identify the root causes of their symptoms and create personalized plans that support long-term health.
Need support with nausea, period pain, or digestive health? Book a discovery call or schedule your first appointment to explore how naturopathic medicine can help.
Disclaimer: Any information is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be used in place of professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of a qualified health care practitioner with any questions or health concerns you may have and before starting any new treatments (including supplements).
