Ginger
Ginger: what NIH says about nausea in pregnancy, motion sickness, menstrual cramps and osteoarthritis, plus side effects and safety in pregnancy.
Content last updated . This page has not been medically reviewed.
Safety first. Supplements can cause side effects and interact with medicines. Read mushroom safety and interactions before you use any mushroom product.
Overview
Ginger is native to warm parts of Asia and is now grown in South America, Africa and the Middle East. Its rhizome (underground stem) is used in food and for health purposes. It has been used in folk medicine since ancient times for asthma, flu, indigestion and stomach discomfort, and is promoted today for nausea and vomiting, osteoarthritis, menstrual cramps and other conditions. [1]Names and parts
Zingiber officinale. [1][2] The rhizome is used. Most of the studies NIH describes tested dietary supplements, not foods, so a ginger meal or tea is not the same as the products studied. [1]What the research shows (NIH summary)
NIH notes that there have been many studies, some not of high quality. [1]| Use | What NIH says | Strength of evidence |
|---|---|---|
| Nausea and vomiting of pregnancy | Research shows ginger may be helpful. [1] | Some research |
| Motion sickness | Most studies have not shown it to be helpful. [1] | Mostly negative |
| Chemotherapy-related, or after-surgery, nausea | Uncertain whether it is a helpful addition to standard treatments. [1] | Uncertain |
| Menstrual cramps | Research suggests supplements might reduce severity. [1] | Limited |
| Knee osteoarthritis | Supplements might help symptoms, but much research is of poor quality. Topical ginger has not been shown to help. [1] | Limited, mixed quality |
Safety
- Ginger has been used safely in many studies as an oral supplement. Side effects can include abdominal discomfort, heartburn, diarrhea and mouth and throat irritation. [1]
- Ginger supplements during pregnancy may be safe; consult your provider. Little is known about breastfeeding. [1]
- NIH advises talking with your provider about medicines. It does not list specific interactions on this page.
Frequently asked questions
Does ginger help nausea?
For nausea and vomiting of pregnancy, NIH says research shows it may help. For motion sickness, most studies have not. [1]
Is ginger safe in pregnancy?
Supplements may be safe, but consult your health care provider. [1]
References
- National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NIH). Ginger: Usefulness and Safety. Page last updated February 2025.
- GBIF Secretariat. GBIF Backbone Taxonomy. Names checked 2026-10-22 through the GBIF species match service.
Education, not medical advice. This page is for general information. It does not diagnose or treat any condition and is not a substitute for care from a qualified health professional. Natural does not automatically mean safe. Ask a clinician or pharmacist before changing your care, especially if you take medication, are pregnant or breastfeeding, or have a health condition.