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Using Ginger to Treat Arthritis

Ginger root has been used as an herbal treatment for thousands of years. It may provide relief for a variety of conditions, such as nausea, colic, and even arthritis, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center (UMMC).

Most of the scientific studies of ginger’s health benefits have been small. However, there is some evidence that ginger may help patients manage their arthritis symptoms. Ginger may be especially helpful in reducing inflammation and pain, and promoting relaxation. As with any at-home treatment, be sure to consult your doctor before using ginger to treat your health condition.

  1. Anti-inflammatory Effects

    • Ginger may offer anti-inflammatory benefits, as some research has shown. For example, a small peer-reviewed study tested the effects of ginger compared to the anti-inflammatory drug diclofenac in patients with osteoarthritis. Researchers found that ginger worked as effectively as the drug in decreasing pain. Ginger was also less likely to upset patients’ stomachs.

      Another study published in the journal Medical Hypotheses found that three-quarters of arthritis patients who took ginger noticed relief in pain and swelling. These findings offer hope to people suffering from arthritis, but more research is needed to confirm the results.

    Pain Relief

    • Ginger is sometimes used for pain relief from arthritis, according to the National Institutes of Health (NIH). A study published in Arthritis & Rheumatism considered 261 patients with osteoarthritis in the knee. The patients were divided into two groups. One group received ginger extract twice a day. The other group received a placebo. The researchers found ginger reduced the patients’ symptoms, but the effect was moderate.

      Other studies have had mixed results. For example, a small study published in Osteoarthritis and Cartilage examined the benefits of ginger over the course of three treatment periods. Researchers found that patients only experienced pain relief in the first treatment period. This might mean that the pain relief benefits of ginger fade over time.

    Relaxation

    • Researchers have also studied ginger’s ability to promote relaxation. A Japanese study noted that ginger suppressed blood levels of specific hormones linked to stress. In another small study published in the Journal of Advanced Nursing, researchers suggested that nurses consider using ginger compresses as part of a holistic treatment plan for patients with osteoarthritis. The study noted that some patients who applied ginger to their skin through a compress reported feeling deeply relaxed.

    Dosage

    • Do you think ginger might help you with your arthritis symptoms? There are many ways to consume ginger. You can even enjoy the plant in food and drinks. However, be careful not to take too much. UMMC recommends that adults limit their ginger intake to less than 4 grams per day. Pregnant women should stay under 1 gram per day. For arthritis sufferers, UMMC suggests taking a 250 mg ginger supplement four times daily.

      Remember, it’s important to discuss any new supplements with your doctor. According to UMMC, ginger may interact with other medications. Interactions are especially common with blood-thinning drugs, as well as drugs used to treat diabetes and high-blood pressure. Protect your health by speaking to your healthcare provider if you would like to add ginger to your treatment plan.

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