Herbs

Ginger

Also called: ginger root, zingiber

The root used in cooking, taken as capsules or tea.

Why people take it
Nausea, motion sickness, period pain.
What the evidence says
Good evidence for nausea in pregnancy and some evidence for period pain.
How it is usually taken
Usually 1 to 2 g a day of powder or extract; tea and cooking amounts are fine.
Be careful
Heartburn and stomach upset. May add to blood thinners.
Medicines it can interact with
High doses may add to bleeding risk with blood thinners and lower sugar with diabetes medicines.

Other herbs

Common questions

What is Ginger?

The root used in cooking, taken as capsules or tea.

Why do people take Ginger?

Nausea, motion sickness, period pain.

Does Ginger work?

Good evidence for nausea in pregnancy and some evidence for period pain.

How much Ginger do people take?

Usually 1 to 2 g a day of powder or extract; tea and cooking amounts are fine.

Is Ginger safe?

Heartburn and stomach upset. May add to blood thinners.

Does Ginger interact with medicines?

High doses may add to bleeding risk with blood thinners and lower sugar with diabetes medicines.

Sources and further reading

Last reviewed 31 October 2026. Written by Satya Babu.

🔎 Search all supplements

For information only, not medical advice. Supplements are not medicines: they are not tested and approved like drugs before they are sold, and they can interact with medicines. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist before you start one, especially if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, take regular medicines, or have kidney, liver or heart disease.