Ginger Root Can Serve as a Digestive Aid and May Also Reduce Nausea and Other Discomfort

Ginger root, also known as Zingiber officinale, is most commonly known in American culture as a spice for flavoring foods. We find it in pumpkin pie and other sweets and it also shows up on sushi plates and in other dishes from eastern cultures. But what many don't know is that a lot of those cultures have also used ginger root for centuries to aid digestion and ease stomach troubles.

Some researchers are now finding that there is scientific proof that the knobby root truly does help the digestive tract and reduces stomach discomfort. Some researchers believe ginger root increases muscle contractions in the stomach, moving food more quickly into the lower intestine. Others also believe it increases the production of certain digestive fluids, which also promotes quicker digestion. The root is also believed by some to be a good remedy for decreasing the feelings of nausea associated with motion sickness, morning sickness, chemotherapy, and post surgery discomfort. Researchers say ginger root, which contains a strong antioxidant, helps to lessen the oxidative materials in the digestive tract known to cause nausea. It also blocks receptors in the stomach from receiving serotonin, thereby reducing feelings of nausea.

There are several ways to consume ginger root in order to reduce nausea or improve digestion:

While taking ginger root in small doses for short periods of time is believed to be safe, you should always consult your doctor before making long-term or permanent dietary or supplement changes.