Article

Ginger: An Overview of Health Benefits

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Abstract

Ginger (Zingiber officinale Roscoe) is a member of the Zingiberaceae family of plants. It has been a part of healing strategies in Asia, India, Europe, and the Middle East for centuries for treatment of such disorders as arthritis, stomach upset, asthma, diabetes, and menstrual irregularities, to name a few. There is scientific support that ginger may alleviate the symptoms of nausea and vomiting following pregnancy, surgery, cancer therapy, or motion sickness and suggestive evidence that ginger reduces inflammation and pain. Cell culture studies show that ginger has antioxidant properties. However, it is not known whether ginger antioxidant constituents are bioavailable in humans once ingested and whether they can affect markers of oxidative stress in human in vivo. There are preliminary data that ginger has antimicrobial potential, although there is little evidence supporting ginger's practical usefulness in combating infections in humans. Based on evidence primarily from animal and in vitro studies, ginger may have beneficial effects toward cardiovascular disease through its multiple actions counteracting inflammation, hyperlipidemia, platelet aggregation, and hypertension. Overall, based on the current body of scientific literature, more information is needed from clinical studies to confirm these promising multiple health benefits of ginger in human subjects and the doses that are most efficacious

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... Zencefilin yapısında bulunan diğer bileşenleri ise oleoresinler, yağlar, mumlar, karbonhidratlar, vitaminler ve minerallerdir. Zencefil rizomları ayrıca zingibain adı verilen güçlü bir proteolitik enzim içerir [14][15][16]. ...
... Aynı zamanda tiamin, riboflavin, niasin ve vitamin C gibi vitaminleri de içerir. Zencefil rizomunun kimyasal bileşenleri, zencefilin ekim alanına ve ürünün taze, kurutulmuş veya işlenmiş olup olmadığına bağlı olarak önemli ölçüde değişiklik gösterebilir [15][16][17]. Taze zencefil diğer zencefil türleri ile kıyaslandığında, baharat aromasını tam olarak verebilen çeşididir. Düşük lif içeriğine sahip fakat keskin aroma, yağ ve protein bakımından zengin olması nedeniyle taze rizomlar; yeşil zencefil elde etmek amacıyla tercih edilir. ...
... Bunun dışında, hamilelik sırasında zencefil kullanımının, bilimsel veya tıbbi bir kontrendikasyonu bildirilmemiştir [12,30,32]. Zencefilin 4 gün ile 3 hafta arasında değişen dönemlerde kullanılmasının, tedavide olumlu etki gösterdiği ve yan etkisinin görülmediği bildirilmiştir [16]. Yapılan randomize kontrollü çalışmalardan Vutyavanich ve arkadaşlarının yaptığı çift-kör plasebo kontrollü bir çalışmada, hamileliğin <17. ...
... Ginger (Zingiber officinale Roscoe) is a monocotyledonous in the family Zingiberaceae and well-known herbaceous perennial plant. Ginger rhizome has been used as a pungency and piquant flavoring and fragrance agent in foods tracked back to early eleventh and twelfth centuries, and in traditional oriental medicine (Ayurvedic, Chinese, and Unani systems of medicine) for more than 3000 years Singletary, 2010;Tramontin et al., 2020) The bark is crushed to extract and intake the resin. The pericarp (shell) is boiled in water and consumed as herbal infusion (snake poison effects) ...
... Ulcers, tonsillitis, hemorrhages, vaginal antiseptic, malaria, anemia, cancer, and diarrhea Direct application of the resin Source: Adapted from Centro Nacional de Salud Intercultural (2017), Huaman (2015), Instituto de Investigación de la Amazonía Peruana (n.d.), Nacarato et al. (2000), Rengifo and Mejía (2000), Brauer Museum of Art (n.d.), Nacarato et al. (2000) and Osores (2018) 15 Ginger: An Introduced Foreign Species and Its Recognition as a Traditional… antibacterial, antifungal, antiemetic, hepatoprotective, immune-modulatory, nephroprotective, neuroprotective, gastroprotective, reproductive system protective, antiinflammatory effects, among others (Anh et al., 2020;Flores et al., 2007;Kiyama, 2020;Li et al., 2019;Singletary, 2010;Srinivasan, 2017;Tramontin et al., 2020;Zhang et al., 2021). Indeed, research on ginger is rising with time globally, which indicates the increase of scientific interest in this therapy . ...
... For Awajun people, amenorrhea (absence of menstrual period in a woman of reproductive age) can take place without affecting the fertility of the woman if Bukuchap ajeg 17 is delivered as enema; however, traditional knowledge holders suggest not combining with other drugs due to generating "strong" effects (Centro Nacional de Salud Intercultural, 2017). This statement may be aligned with scientific data, which have reported potential adverse events in herb-drug interactions (including ginger as an herb) under specific conditions (e.g., during pregnancy, pediatric population, or patients with prescribed medication such as the blood-thinning agent warfarin) (Kiyama, 2020;Singletary, 2010). ...
Chapter
A study was conducted in August 2011 in the Lower Shire Valley districts of Chikwawa (Ntombosola village, TA Chapananga) and Nsanje (Mlolo village, TA Mlolo, and Nyachikadza village, TA Nyachikadza) to document and scientifically validate the most commonly used naturally occurring traditional early warning signals for floods and drought, which are the major hazards threatening the resilience of social and ecological systems in the area. The data collection approach included desk study (literature search), a field survey using standard participatory approaches (Focus Group Discussions and Key Informant Interviews) through which data and information on meteorological, hydrological, socio-economic and ecological data for the study areas was collected and analysed thematically. The study identified and analysed 22 traditional early warning signals for rainfall, floods and drought as observed and reported by communities in the study areas out of which, eight are directly associated with droughts while three are associated with floods. The remaining 11 neither predict drought nor floods but act as early warning signals for seasonal changes and weather. Two flood-related traditional early warning signals (EWS), namely, higher distribution of hippos and snails in human environment, exhibit some consistency with scientific knowledge, but the third, mushroom abundance, is off target. However, all drought-related traditional EWS have limited consistency with scientific knowledge (SK), which means that they do not meet the minimum criteria to act as early warning signals of drought or floods. In addition, all seasonal/weather-related signals also have limited consistency with SK. In particular, eclipse of the moon is totally inconsistent with SK as an EWS. These inconsistencies are a manifestation of the existing gap between scientific knowledge and indigenous knowledge on the early warning signals of drought and floods in the area. The predictions by the traditional EWS for drought and floods have not always resulted in the specific episode as predicted rendering them unreliable. Reliance on scarce wildlife such as pangolins, foxes, hippos and pythons raises further concerns that communities may not easily access these indicators when needed. Since this knowledge has been passed on orally from one generation to the next, there is high possibility of distortion over time, as is often the case with oral history. Climate change and climate variability have exacerbated the inconsistencies. These results provide the framework on which disaster risk reduction interventions may be developed particularly as regards behavioural change communication around community-based early warning disaster risk reduction. Using this information, the Government of Malawi and stakeholders may identify the key messages and strategies for addressing the knowledge gaps. It is recommended that detailed studies be conducted to ascertain change in abundance of snails and the behaviour of hippos in relation to floods in the Lower Shire. Since most of the traditional EWS have limited consistency with SK, we recommend that the information should be enhanced with SK, refined and repackaged for use by relevant communities. For example, farmers would be informed that drought conditions favour locust outbreaks, while elegant grasshoppers boom with water-stress conditions within the rainy season. This would prepare the farmers for looming locust disasters to take precautionary risk reduction measures.
... Ginger (Zingiber officinale Roscoe) is a monocotyledonous in the family Zingiberaceae and well-known herbaceous perennial plant. Ginger rhizome has been used as a pungency and piquant flavoring and fragrance agent in foods tracked back to early eleventh and twelfth centuries, and in traditional oriental medicine (Ayurvedic, Chinese, and Unani systems of medicine) for more than 3000 years Singletary, 2010;Tramontin et al., 2020) The bark is crushed to extract and intake the resin. The pericarp (shell) is boiled in water and consumed as herbal infusion (snake poison effects) ...
... Ulcers, tonsillitis, hemorrhages, vaginal antiseptic, malaria, anemia, cancer, and diarrhea Direct application of the resin Source: Adapted from Centro Nacional de Salud Intercultural (2017), Huaman (2015), Instituto de Investigación de la Amazonía Peruana (n.d.), Nacarato et al. (2000), Rengifo and Mejía (2000), Brauer Museum of Art (n.d.), Nacarato et al. (2000) and Osores (2018) 15 Ginger: An Introduced Foreign Species and Its Recognition as a Traditional… antibacterial, antifungal, antiemetic, hepatoprotective, immune-modulatory, nephroprotective, neuroprotective, gastroprotective, reproductive system protective, antiinflammatory effects, among others (Anh et al., 2020;Flores et al., 2007;Kiyama, 2020;Li et al., 2019;Singletary, 2010;Srinivasan, 2017;Tramontin et al., 2020;Zhang et al., 2021). Indeed, research on ginger is rising with time globally, which indicates the increase of scientific interest in this therapy . ...
... For Awajun people, amenorrhea (absence of menstrual period in a woman of reproductive age) can take place without affecting the fertility of the woman if Bukuchap ajeg 17 is delivered as enema; however, traditional knowledge holders suggest not combining with other drugs due to generating "strong" effects (Centro Nacional de Salud Intercultural, 2017). This statement may be aligned with scientific data, which have reported potential adverse events in herb-drug interactions (including ginger as an herb) under specific conditions (e.g., during pregnancy, pediatric population, or patients with prescribed medication such as the blood-thinning agent warfarin) (Kiyama, 2020;Singletary, 2010). ...
Chapter
While development professionals, academics and policy makers use modern science to understand and explain changes in nature and make predictions for future weather, some isolated communities in remote rural areas rely on Traditional Ecological Knowledge obtained by observing environment around them to help make decisions to cope with weather shocks. This paper looks at the Faidherbia albida tree and describes its roles and benefits associated with the livelihoods of Malawian local farmers, through the farmer’s voice. The paper unpacks both Scientific Ecological Knowledge and Traditional Ecological Knowledge about this tree. Using literature review, field observations and ten in-depth interviews conducted in two villages of Salima District, Malawi, where the tree is abundant in farms, we collated both Scientific and Traditional Ecological Knowledge about Faidherbia albida (or ‘Msangu’ in the local language Chichewa). The tree has various purposes, as a nitrogen fixer, fodder for animals, firewood and wood for carving dugout canoes. The tree’s pods are fed to pregnant goats as this is believed to prevent miscarriages in animals. The directions in which the tree’s leaves fall are interpreted as rainfall prediction indicators by community members. Using a decolonial approach and merging Traditional Ecological Knowledge with Scientific Ecological Knowledge, F. albida is used to unpack farmers’ knowledge in decision-making related to agricultural practices.
... Ginger (Zingiber officinale Roscoe) is a monocotyledonous in the family Zingiberaceae and well-known herbaceous perennial plant. Ginger rhizome has been used as a pungency and piquant flavoring and fragrance agent in foods tracked back to early eleventh and twelfth centuries, and in traditional oriental medicine (Ayurvedic, Chinese, and Unani systems of medicine) for more than 3000 years Singletary, 2010;Tramontin et al., 2020) The bark is crushed to extract and intake the resin. The pericarp (shell) is boiled in water and consumed as herbal infusion (snake poison effects) ...
... Ulcers, tonsillitis, hemorrhages, vaginal antiseptic, malaria, anemia, cancer, and diarrhea Direct application of the resin Source: Adapted from Centro Nacional de Salud Intercultural (2017), Huaman (2015), Instituto de Investigación de la Amazonía Peruana (n.d.), Nacarato et al. (2000), Rengifo and Mejía (2000), Brauer Museum of Art (n.d.), Nacarato et al. (2000) and Osores (2018) 15 Ginger: An Introduced Foreign Species and Its Recognition as a Traditional… antibacterial, antifungal, antiemetic, hepatoprotective, immune-modulatory, nephroprotective, neuroprotective, gastroprotective, reproductive system protective, antiinflammatory effects, among others (Anh et al., 2020;Flores et al., 2007;Kiyama, 2020;Li et al., 2019;Singletary, 2010;Srinivasan, 2017;Tramontin et al., 2020;Zhang et al., 2021). Indeed, research on ginger is rising with time globally, which indicates the increase of scientific interest in this therapy . ...
... For Awajun people, amenorrhea (absence of menstrual period in a woman of reproductive age) can take place without affecting the fertility of the woman if Bukuchap ajeg 17 is delivered as enema; however, traditional knowledge holders suggest not combining with other drugs due to generating "strong" effects (Centro Nacional de Salud Intercultural, 2017). This statement may be aligned with scientific data, which have reported potential adverse events in herb-drug interactions (including ginger as an herb) under specific conditions (e.g., during pregnancy, pediatric population, or patients with prescribed medication such as the blood-thinning agent warfarin) (Kiyama, 2020;Singletary, 2010). ...
Chapter
Apparently, many agricultural communities in Africa live in remote areas which are not adequately covered by climate information services, albeit experiencing climate change impacts. Despite being remote, such areas are mainly inhabited by indigenous populations that are believed to have proven knowledge about predicting climatic events, such as droughts. This suggests that there are gaps in the coverage and strengths of available climate information and extension services which may be filled through the use of indigenous knowledge systems (IKS). Notwithstanding growing research to document such knowledge systems, there is still debate on the robustness and precision of IKS in drought prediction. By adopting a citizen science approach that is rooted in a multiple evidence paradigm, we show some evidence in the utility of indigenous ways of drought prediction in selected indigenous farming communities in Zimbabwe. The study collaborated with local elderly experts who had long time experience in observing environmental, meteorological and astronomical elements that they use in seasonal predictions. Given the resilience and widespread use of these indigenous practices, against a backdrop of patchy climate data and limited climate extension services, we maintain that IKS is capable of predicting seasonal droughts in ways that the local communities strongly depend on when making farming decisions and devising appropriate adaptation measures to climate change.
... Ginger (Zingiber officinale Roscoe) is a monocotyledonous in the family Zingiberaceae and well-known herbaceous perennial plant. Ginger rhizome has been used as a pungency and piquant flavoring and fragrance agent in foods tracked back to early eleventh and twelfth centuries, and in traditional oriental medicine (Ayurvedic, Chinese, and Unani systems of medicine) for more than 3000 years Singletary, 2010;Tramontin et al., 2020) The bark is crushed to extract and intake the resin. The pericarp (shell) is boiled in water and consumed as herbal infusion (snake poison effects) ...
... Ulcers, tonsillitis, hemorrhages, vaginal antiseptic, malaria, anemia, cancer, and diarrhea Direct application of the resin Source: Adapted from Centro Nacional de Salud Intercultural (2017), Huaman (2015), Instituto de Investigación de la Amazonía Peruana (n.d.), Nacarato et al. (2000), Rengifo and Mejía (2000), Brauer Museum of Art (n.d.), Nacarato et al. (2000) and Osores (2018) 15 Ginger: An Introduced Foreign Species and Its Recognition as a Traditional… antibacterial, antifungal, antiemetic, hepatoprotective, immune-modulatory, nephroprotective, neuroprotective, gastroprotective, reproductive system protective, antiinflammatory effects, among others (Anh et al., 2020;Flores et al., 2007;Kiyama, 2020;Li et al., 2019;Singletary, 2010;Srinivasan, 2017;Tramontin et al., 2020;Zhang et al., 2021). Indeed, research on ginger is rising with time globally, which indicates the increase of scientific interest in this therapy . ...
... For Awajun people, amenorrhea (absence of menstrual period in a woman of reproductive age) can take place without affecting the fertility of the woman if Bukuchap ajeg 17 is delivered as enema; however, traditional knowledge holders suggest not combining with other drugs due to generating "strong" effects (Centro Nacional de Salud Intercultural, 2017). This statement may be aligned with scientific data, which have reported potential adverse events in herb-drug interactions (including ginger as an herb) under specific conditions (e.g., during pregnancy, pediatric population, or patients with prescribed medication such as the blood-thinning agent warfarin) (Kiyama, 2020;Singletary, 2010). ...
Book
This contributed volume provides case studies from around the world that feature a convergence of indigenous and western knowledge in an attempt to understand complex socio-ecological systems. The book provides an understanding of socio-ecological systems in an ethical space using a 'Decoloniality' approach (i.e. untangling the production of knowledge from a primarily Eurocentric episteme). The work presented here integrates and merges indigenous knowledge with western science, thereby building on the strengths of each in service of understanding these systems. The editors of this volume approach indigenous communities and scientists as equal knowledge-holders and, in doing so, contributes towards improved understanding of socio-ecological systems and interactions in cross-cultural contexts. This volume will be of interest to scientists, instructors, students and policy makers across disciplines such as environmental sciences, social sciences, interdisciplinary studies, cultural studies, ethnobotany, anthropology and plant genetic resources.
... It provides a warm feeling and aroma for women going through menopause and who are at risk of osteoporosis (Sharifi-Rad et al., 2017). This ingredient can treat digestion and reduce the risk of ovarian cancer (Fasoli et al., 2012), nausea, and vomiting caused by pregnancy, surgery, chemotherapy, and motion sickness (Singletary, 2010). The spicy taste of fresh ginger originates from a group of phenolic compounds called gingerols. ...
... Shogaol, a dehydrated generol, is the compound producing the spicy taste of dried ginger (Arablou and Aryaeian, 2018). Consumption of ginger is effective in preventing cancer (Singletary, 2010). This is on account of the role of herbs as potent anti-oxidants that can prevent the damage of free radicals, reduce the activity of free radicals, and increase immunostimulant activity (Indiarto et al., 2021). ...
Article
his article aims to provide knowledge related to the history, uniqueness, composition, processing, health benefits, development, and innovation of wedang uwuh. The research uses a qualitative approach. The data were collected through in-depth interviews with the courtiers (abdi dalem), the owners of wedang uwuh SMEs, consumers, and the government. The research location, Yogyakarta Province, is the origin of wedang uwuh. The supporting data were gathered through literature studies. Wedang uwuh is an ethnic traditional drink from Yogyakarta, Java, Indonesia. It is made from cloves, nutmeg leaves, sappan, cinnamon, ginger, cardamom, and rock sugar. This drink is unique in terms of name, history, culture, properties, color, and taste. It is beneficial for improving health, fitness, and body immunity. Wedang uwuh is part of the cultural journey in Yogyakarta. This drink is now not only consumed by the royal family but also produced and consumed by the wider community and becomes a superior product with a high economic value. As an innovation, wedang uwuh is now available in concoction, instant, syrup, klisikan, and dip bag forms. Wedang uwuh can adapt to the times through product innovation but still maintain its main characteristics as an ethnic and healthy traditional drink.
... Ginger (Zingiber officinale), belonging to Zingiberaceae family, is a perennial herb available in the form of rhizome and is consumed all over the world. Ginger is a native plant of Asia but cultivated in many tropical countries specifically in West Indies, Africa, India, and Nepal [1]. Because of the presence of polyphenols, terpenoids and isoterpenoids compounds, the ginger has many medicinal properties such as antioxidative, therapeutic and anti-bacterial properties [2]. ...
... Ginger contains volatile essential oil and non-volatile oleoresin which are potential to prevent diabetes, common cold, high cholesterol and cardiovascular diseases [3]. Ginger is also potential for the treatment of heart and lungs diseases [1][2][3]. Ginger is mainly used as spice/curry powder and flavoring agent in different foods such as bread, tea, cookie and carbonated drinks etc. It is necessary to increase the direct consumption of gingers by developing ginger-based ready-to-eat products such as candy for the long-term health benefit to prevent many diseases and increase the economic value of gingers through proper processing and preservation [4]. ...
Article
The objectives of this study were to develop value-added low sugar ginger candy based on physical, mechanical and sensorial properties of ginger candy, to improve sensorial properties using different flavors and to investigate the effectiveness of low-density polyethylene (LDPE) and polypropylene (PP) bags to maintain the moisture content of ginger candy during storage. Ginger (Zingiber officinale) is potential against many diseases and infections. Gingers can be converted to ready-to-eat products to increase their utilization and economic value using suitable processing techniques. Due to sharp spicy flavor, pungent aroma and short shelf-life there are few ready-to-eat ginger products available in the market. In this study, ginger candy was developed by dipping ginger slices (cubes) in 65°Brix, 70°Brix and 75°Brix sucrose solutions for osmotic drying followed by hot air drying at 60℃ for 16 hours. The physical properties (moisture content, density and color), mechanical properties (hardness, gumminess, cohesiveness, springiness and chewiness) and sensory properties (appearance, texture. sweetness and overall acceptability) of three different (°Brix) ginger candies were determined to develop the desired ginger candy. The physical, mechanical and sensory properties of 65°Brix, 70°Brix and 75°Brix ginger candy revealed that 70°Brix ginger candy sample was optimum sugar content and was most desired ginger candy. The vanilla and cinnamon flavored candies were developed using the optimum sugar content (70°Brix) and the sensory analysis of the flavored ginger candy was performed to compare the flavor preference. The flavor sensory results indicated that the vanilla flavored ginger candy was more acceptable than the cinnamon flavored ginger candy. All ginger candy samples packed in LDPE and PP achieved equilibrium moisture content at the same time. But the moisture content of ginger candy in LDPE was lower than the moisture content of ginger candy in PP during storage. This result indicated that the shelf-life of ginger candy can be longer in LDPE compared to PP. The findings of this study will be beneficial for the commercial development of low sugar flavored ginger candy.
... further studies are needed before recommendations can be made (Singletary 2010). ...
... There are some differences in dosages of ginger and timing of outcome measurements (Chaiyakunapruk et al. 2006, Thompson and Potter 2006, Tavlan et al. 2006. In those studies demonstrated the activity of ginger, generally, no adverse effects were reported (Singletary 2010). ...
Chapter
Full-text available
Potential Benefits of Ginger in Maintenance of Oral Health
... It is native to southeastern Asia and was later introduced to other parts of the world. Ancient civilizations, including the Chinese, Indians, Greeks, and Romans, valued ginger for its medicinal benefits [126]. Ginger has a pungent, spicy flavor and a warm aroma, which is why it is a popular ingredient in various cuisines worldwide. ...
Article
Full-text available
Skin cancer is a condition characterized by the abnormal growth of skin cells, primarily caused by exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun or artificial sources like tanning beds. Different types of skin cancer include melanoma, basal cell carcinoma, and squamous cell carcinoma. Despite the advancements in targeted therapies, there is still a need for a safer, highly efficient approach to preventing and treating cutaneous malignancies. Spices have a rich history dating back thousands of years and are renowned for their ability to enhance the flavor, taste, and color of food. Derived from various plant parts like seeds, fruits, bark, roots, or flowers, spices are important culinary ingredients. However, their value extends beyond the culinary realm. Some spices contain bioactive compounds, including phenolic compounds, which are known for their significant biological effects. These compounds have attracted attention in scientific research due to their potential health benefits, including their possible role in disease prevention and treatment, such as cancer. This review focuses on examining the potential of spice-derived phenolic compounds as preventive or therapeutic agents for managing skin cancers. By compiling and analyzing the available knowledge, this review aims to provide insights that can guide future research in identifying new anticancer phytochemicals and uncovering additional mechanisms for combating skin cancer.
... The breadth of value addition at the level of farmers was also emphasised in the study. However, ginger farming is not free from issues including conventional nature of farming, lack of crop rotation etc. Singletary (2010) emphasised the benefits of ginger's medical characteristics and how it is used in various nations around the world to cure various illnesses or ailments. Another component of the study involves capitalising on these aspects for the growers' larger economic gains. ...
Article
Full-text available
One of the key species grown in the North-East is ginger. The rural agricultural populations' livelihood comes from the cultivation of ginger, which also helps with socio-economic advancement. Farmer endeavors and the expansion of the production base are encouraged by the favourable soil and climatic characteristics of some of the chosen agro-climatic zones. However, there are some limitations on ginger production and marketing, especially from the perspective of farmers. This paper attempt to analyse the contemporary scenario of ginger farming in West-Garo Hills District of Meghalaya. The study is primarily undertaken from farmer's perspective. In the process of doing the same, constraints of the ginger growers are also taken into consideration. The study is based on both primary as well as secondary data. Ginger growers were selected based on non-probabilistic convenience sampling procedure. Desired responses were obtained with the help of structured schedule. It was observed that increasing input cost primarily affect the ginger growers. There is scope for improvement in the form of value addition at the growers' level, farmers can add significant value by processing and diversifying their raw ginger supply. The study's suggestive conclusion is that ginger-based agro-entrepreneurship should be promoted. The study suggest for the development of favourable market conditions to the growers' greater advantage. Absence of well-organized markets set up also acts as impediments in the process of production and marketing of ginger.
... It is native to southeastern Asia and was later introduced to other parts of the world. Ancient civilizations, including the Chinese, Indians, Greeks, and Romans, valued ginger for its medicinal benefits [126]. Ginger has a pungent, spicy flavor and a warm aroma, which is why it is a popular ingredient in various cuisines worldwide. ...
Preprint
Full-text available
Skin cancer is a condition characterized by the abnormal growth of skin cells, primarily caused by exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun or artificial sources like tanning beds. Different types of skin cancer include melanoma, basal cell carcinoma, and squamous cell carcinoma. Despite the advancements in targeted therapies, there is still a need for a safer, highly efficient approach to preventing and treating cutaneous malignancies. Spices have a rich history dating back thousands of years and are renowned for their ability to enhance the flavor, taste, and color of food. Derived from various plant parts like seeds, fruits, bark, roots, or flowers, spices are important culinary ingredients. However, their value extends beyond the culinary realm. Some spices contain bioactive compounds, including phenolic compounds, which are known for their significant biological effects. These compounds have attracted attention in scientific research due to their potential health benefits, including their possible role in disease prevention and treatment, such as cancer. This review focuses on examining the potential of spice-derived phenolic compounds as preventive or therapeutic agents for managing skin cancers. By compiling and analyzing the available knowledge, this review aims to provide insights that can guide future research in identifying new anticancer phytochemicals and uncovering additional mechanisms for combating skin cancer.
... Tenderness of meat is influenced by breed, age, feeding, suspension of carcass during slaughter, electrical stimulation, chilling rate and aging, mechanical, marination, freezing, thawing and cooking. Tenderness plays a very important role in deciding the quality of meat by consumers [6] and is considered to be a critical component of processed meat. Since it ensured that meat reach an optimum level of tenderness before consumption. ...
... Research studies conducted on diverse plant matrices in recent years have yielded compelling evidence linking their consumption to advantageous effects on human health [1,2]. For this reason, the main objective of this work is to develop an efficient extraction method to evaluate the content of bioactive compounds in ginger, an increasingly common food in method to evaluate the content of bioactive compounds in ginger, an increasingly common food in our diet. ...
Article
Full-text available
The goal of this study is to optimize a UAE method for the extraction of the main bioactive compounds present in the ginger rhizome (gingerols and shogaols). Ginger rhizome (Zingiber officinale) has a considerable content of bioactive compounds, in particular gingerols and shogaols, with interesting pharmacological activities such as anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, anti-cancer, and antimicrobial properties, among others. The isolation of these compounds requires an efficient extraction process with short extraction times and the employment of specific non-toxic solvents for humans. In this work, the optimization of an ultrasound-assisted extraction (UAE) method for the extraction of the main pungent compounds in the ginger rhizome, i.e., gingerols and shogaols, has been carried out. For this purpose, a Box–Behnken design (BBD) has been used to optimize the experimental design through a response surface methodology (RSM). The percentage of ethanol in the extraction solvent, the temperature, the amplitude, and the cycle of the ultrasounds, as well as the sample-to-solvent ratio, were the variables to be studied. Thus, the percentage of ethanol in the extraction solvent was identified as the most influential factor. Once the compounds were extracted, the identification of gingerols and shogaols was performed by ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography (UHPLC) coupled to a quadrupole-time-of-flight mass spectrometer (Q-ToF-MS), and the quantification by UHPLC coupled to a diode array detector (DAD) detector. Finally, the optimized UAE method required only 10 min of extraction time, presenting good repeatability and intermediate precision levels (
... It is used in many industries such as soft drink, beverage, pharmaceutical, bakery, culinary, and cosmetic production (Simonyan et al., 2014). The chemical components of ginger can vary depending on the place of cultivation and type of product (Keith, 2010). ...
Article
Full-text available
The inadequacy of mechanization in the production, processing and storage of ginger in Nigeria has caused its market price to be among the lowest in international trade. This study examined the selection of the optimal number of impeller and impeller speed for an improved ginger slicing machine. This research was conducted in the Department of Agricultural and Bio-Environmental Engineering at Waziri Umaru Federal Polytechnic in Birnin Kebbi during April 2019. A Completely Randomized Design (CRD) with 5 x 4 x 2 factorial experiment was conducted. The machine's performance was measured according to high average Efficiency of Slicing, average high output capacity and low percent scatter. The moisture content of the ginger used for the experiment with 1 hp prime mover was 82.2 and 81.5%. The data collected were analyzed using the Duncan Multiple Range Test (DMRT), with means separated at a P0.05 level. The results showed that the cushion compartment had the best Efficiency of Slicing of 56.8% at 350 rpm impeller speed, one number of impeller gang, 25.6 g/sec output and 4.2 g percent scatter, respectively.
... minerals (1.2%), protein (2.3%), fiber (2.4%), and fat (1.0%). Ginger contains the minerals calcium, magnesium, iron, phosphorus, sodium, and potassium [26]. Shoaib et al. [27] reviewed and reported that ginger contains 1-3% volatile oils, and these substances are also responsible for its flavor and scent. ...
Chapter
Full-text available
Root, bulb, or tuber vegetables, which are borne underground, are reported to be dense in essential nutrients and come with several health benefits. Most of these root vegetables are the cultivated ones, but few are still underexploited. The root vegetables are consumed either wholly or partially and raw or after processing. They are high in fiber but low in fat and cholesterol. There are wide varieties of bioactive phytochemicals present in them that may contribute to their medicinal and nutraceutical properties. Although some research work has been conducted to uncover the pharmacological effects of root vegetables, their unlimited potential has yet to be fully exploited. The pharmaceutical industry can develop various health-promoting herbal formulations with medicinal properties. The food industry can employ novel processing technologies to preserve nutrition and prevent degradation of the phytochemicals during processing or for value addition of food products. The information presented in this chapter would be helpful for researchers, nutritional and medical professionals, pharmaceutical companies, and the food industry to design and develop effective medicines, drugs, and value-added food products by exploiting the specific as well as multiple modes of action of the various root vegetables.
... Therefore, we suggest 500 µg/g as the maximum concentration. The results showed that 6-shogaol had a strong inhibitory effect on α-glucosidase in a dosedependent manner [37]. Differentiated Caco-2 cells are mature human intestinal mucosal models, which can differentiate into brush border membranes and basolateral membranes and express a variety of enzymes and nutrient transporters in vitro [38]. ...
Article
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As the main bioactive component in dried ginger, 6-shogaol has potential hypoglycemic activity, but its mechanism is still unclear. The process of carbohydrate digestion and glucose absorption is closely related to the enzymatic activity of epithelial brush cells, expression of glucose transporters, and permeability of intestinal epithelial cells. Therefore, this study explored the hypoglycemic mechanism of 6-shogaol from the perspective of glucose uptake, absorption transport, and protection of intestinal barrier function. Based on molecular docking, the binding energy of 6-shogaol and α-glucosidase is −6.24 kcal/mol, showing a high binding affinity. Moreover, a-glucosidase enzymatic activity was reduced (−78.96%) when the 6-shogaol concentration was 500 µg/mL. After 6-shogaol intervention, the glucose uptake was reduced; the relative expression of glucose transporters GLUT2 and SGLT1 were down regulated; and tight junction proteins ZO-1, Occludin and Claudin were up regulated in differentiated Caco-2 cells. This study confirmed that 6-shogaol effectively inhibits the activity of α-glucosidase and has beneficial effects on glucose uptake, protection of intestinal barrier function, and promotion of intestinal material absorption.
... minerals (1.2%), protein (2.3%), fiber (2.4%), and fat (1.0%). Ginger contains the minerals calcium, magnesium, iron, phosphorus, sodium, and potassium [26]. Shoaib et al. [27] reviewed and reported that ginger contains 1-3% volatile oils, and these substances are also responsible for its flavor and scent. ...
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Root, bulb, or tuber vegetables, which are borne underground, are reported to be dense in essential nutrients and come with several health benefits. Most of these root vegetables are the cultivated ones, but few are still underexploited. The root vegetables are consumed either wholly or partially and raw or after processing. They are high in fiber but low in fat and cholesterol. There are wide varieties of bioactive phyto-chemicals present in them that may contribute to their medicinal and nutraceutical properties. Although some research work has been conducted to uncover the pharmacological effects of root vegetables, their unlimited potential has yet to be fully exploited. The pharmaceutical industry can develop various health-promoting herbal formulations with medicinal properties. The food industry can employ novel processing technologies to preserve nutrition and prevent degradation of the phyto-chemicals during processing or for value addition of food products. The information presented in this chapter would be helpful for researchers, nutritional and medical professionals, pharmaceutical companies, and the food industry to design and develop effective medicines, drugs, and value-added food products by exploiting the specific as well as multiple modes of action of the various root vegetables.
... [2] The bioactive constituents in ginger (gingerol) is readily absorbable resulting in its reduced bioavailability in saliva and hence in our study, the salivary pH level after consuming ginger tea slowly returned back to the base line pH in 10 min. [18] On the contrary, the salivary pH after the intake of lemon tea was significantly reduced due to the ascorbic acid content and it did not return back to the baseline salivary pH even after 10 min. This could be because of the high titrable acidity of the ascorbic acid in lemon tea which is responsible for prolonging the low pH of saliva in the oral cavity. ...
... The filaments, starch, proteins, sugars, lignans, alkaloids, flavonoids, phenols, amides, and essential oils are present in black pepper [4]. The 1-piperoylpiperidine is synthetic piperine and a major bioactive fragment present in both black and white pepper [5]. Black pepper is known as " the King of Flavors" because of its strong aroma and highest yield based on worldwide trade volume [6]. ...
Article
Currently, black pepper commands the leading position among all the spices as a spice of great commercial importance in all the world trade and finds its way into the dietary habits of millions of people worldwide. Black pepper is biologically known as Piper nigrum and contains piperine as the main active chemical constituent. This paper highlights various general methods for extracting piperine from the crude drug such as maceration extraction, hydrotropic extraction, accelerated solvent extraction, thin-layer chromatography, and extraction with ethanol & dichloromethane Ionic fluid-based ultrasonic-assisted extraction, etc. In this review, piperine and its analogs exhibit numerous pharmacological activities and synthetic schemes of insecticidal activity, anti-cancer activity, anti-inflammatory activity, anti-diabetic activity, anti-hyperlipidemic activity, antifungal activity, narcotic activity, etc. and its structure-activity relationship. The biochemistry of piperine has also been summarized in the presented article. This very exhaustive review details the complete information about piperine, its derivatives, and further processing. Furthermore, the current study summarises recent research that has linked piperine to its use as a treatment for a variety of ailments.
... Ginger, the rhizome of Zingiber officinale, is used as a spice worldwide [16]. It is a member of the Zingiberaceae plant family and is native to Asia, although grown in Africa and other tropical regions [17]. For centuries, ginger has been used to treat many ailments, including arthritis pain, headache, cold, dyspepsia, constipation, gastric ulcer, nausea caused by motion sickness, morning sickness, chemotherapy, hyperlipidemia, and hyperglycemia [18][19][20][21]. ...
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Background Beneficial effects of ginger consumption on metabolic biomarkers has been reported previously. The current research aimed to investigate the effects of ginger supplementation on lipid profile and body weight using a meta-analysis of randomized, controlled trials Methods Online databases PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, and Science Direct were searched until December 2021 to identify eligible articles. Twenty-six trials were included. Results The results showed that ginger consumption can significantly improve lipid profile including total triglyceride (-12.54 (-20.01 to -5.08)), cholesterol (-6.53 (-10.76 to -2.31)), LDL (-5.14 (-8.79 to -1.50)), and HDL (1.13 (0.35 to 1.91)). Moreover, ginger supplementation could significantly decrease body mass index (BMI) (-0.49 (-0.79 to -0.18)). However, the small number of sample studies that investigated reductions in body weight (-0.52 (-1.48 to 0.43)) were not statistically significant. Sub-group analysis of treatment dose and duration showed that in most of the analyzed lipid profiles, both ≤1500 and >1500 mg/d for both of ≤8 and >8 weeks could be effective; however, in the case of weight control dose of >1500 mg/d for more than 8 weeks was more effective. Besides, the results of multivariate meta-analysis revealed the effect of the intervention on all lipid profiles simultaneously. Conclusion The present meta-analysis and review reveal that ginger supplementation can improve lipid profile and body weight if used at the appropriate dose and duration. More studies are needed to fully evaluate the effect of ginger supplements' different doses and duration on lipid profile and BMI.
... Ginger rhizome has been prescribed for the treatment of various diseases [5] in most traditional and complementary systems of treatment such as homeopathy, Ayurveda, Chinese, Unani Tibb, and Siddha [6]. The plant has been used as an antioxidant [7], antibacterial [8], anticancer [9], anti-inflammation [4], antidepressant [10], regulation of blood sugar level, mensural irregularity [3], treatment of nausea and vomiting, post-operative nausea and vomiting [11], mitigation of rheumatoid arthritis/osteoarthritis/joint and muscle pain, and many other medicinal uses [3]. ...
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Ginger (Zingiber officinale) is a widely cultivated plant due to its pharmacological properties and its use as a spice. The plant species enjoys a good reputation in most regions of the world mainly because of its anti-inflammatory, antitumor, and antioxidant activities. To enhance these pharmacological properties, ginger is mostly used in combination. Drug combination therapy is also a worthwhile strategy for the prevention of various diseases. Therefore, the current chapter concerted on pharmacological activities of ginger combinations. The plant species has been combined with other plant extracts, pure compounds, and approved drugs for antimicrobial, antioxidant, anticancer, antidiabetic, and antidepressant activities and also in herbal tea formulations. Most of these activities showed synergism with 50% inhibition concertation (IC 50) values of less than 1. The highest activity was observed when ginger phytochemicals, shogaol, and gingerol derivatives were combined against prostate cancer cell lines with an IC 50 value of 0.03. Interaction of different phyto-chemicals in ginger with other phytochemicals when used in combination account for the reported synergism. The observed synergism in most combinations depicts a potential use of ginger combinations in treatment and prevention of various diseases and disease conditions.
... Even though as low as 1.6% of respondents indicated knowledge of ginger's anti-emetic properties, the reason for the low percentage may be because most respondents did not perceive it as a condition that needed much attention as cough and chest pains. That notwithstanding, Anwar et al., (2018) and Singletary (2010), have shown the positive effect of ginger on nausea during pregnancy and post-operative symptoms even better than anti-emetic drugs. ...
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Human beings have battled with oxidative stress and its related illnesses such as inflammatory diseases, heart diseases, and even cancer for decades. Spices and herbs are known for their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that could mitigate oxidative stress. However, post-harvest loss of such spices make their production seasonal and solar drying could curtail this problem. Solar drying of ginger will add value and reduce post-harvest loss, yet consumer preference needs to be established. This study carried out a survey by administering semi-structured questionnaires to 398 willing respondents in the Accra metropolis to seek information on the knowledge of the health benefits and sicknesses that consumers had used ginger to treat as well as the acceptability of solar dried ginger locally. Respondents enumerated 22 illnesses in the category of anti-inflammatory disorders, stomach discomfort, weight loss, and an aphrodisiac which they had used ginger to cure. More than half of respondents (74.3%) had used ginger to cure upper respiratory infections with an almost unanimous response to the local production of dried ginger for all-year availability.
... Freshly harvested organic ginger is mainly used for consumption as green ginger throughout the region, with only a small surplus being sold in the market, often at very low prices compare to other districts. Sometimes, due to marketing problems, farmers are unable to sell their produce because there is no local market large enough to absorb and process green organic ginger in large quantities Due to its abundance in the region, it is possible to prepare a variety of products that are in high demand overseas, such as ginger oil, ginger oleoresin, ginger powder, ginger candy, ginger liquor, wine beer and soft drinks for export in other states (Karthick et al. 2015;White, 2007;Timsina, 2010;Singletary, 2010;Rahman, et al. 2007;Poudel, et al. 2016). ...
Article
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Ginger (Zingiber officinale Rosc.) is an herbaceous perennial crop usually grown as an annual for its rhizome. It is a valuable cash crop does not only serve as integral medium for food security, but also as a source of income generation, and employer of labour in the producing areas of Longleng. Lack of finance, inadequate farm inputs, storage facilities and high cost of labour are identified as the primary constraints to organic ginger production in the region. Research survey of farmers producing organic ginger was conducted in 2022 in Pongo, Yongnyah, Yonyam and Bhumnyu villages. Total of thirty (30) organic ginger producers were selected using random sampling methods from each of the four villages with a total sample size of one hundred twenty (120). The results revealed that the organic ginger production was profitable on cash cost basis (BCR 1.75). Seed have major cost share for ginger production (65.1%). The estimated coefficients of Cobb-Douglas production function showed that seed, labour and number of years for crop rotation were the significant factors for organic ginger production. The study concluded that ginger production can be made viable enterprise with increased focus on conducive environment and investment climate by subsidising farm inputs and providing affordable loans to the smallholder farmers for a sustainable production. The study pointed out that the organic ginger farming could be a highly beneficial and market-oriented activity in Longleng. It also points out the problems faced by the organic ginger farmers and finally suggests policy implication.
... In 2012, 6.8% of the 4.2 billion prescriptions prepared in the United States were opioids [10], and from 2001 to 2009, the number of people who prescribed NSAIDs more than doubled [11]; however, both opioids and NSAIDs have side number of people who prescribed NSAIDs more than doubled [11]; however, both opioid and NSAIDs have side effects such as hormone imbalance [12], tolerance and dependence [13], nausea, dyspepsia and gastrointestinal ulceration [14]. Thus, efforts to find an opti mal analgesic drug that has no or fewer side effects than the currently used analgesics are still needed Z. officinale, ginger, has long been widely used as an herbal medicine for the preven tion and treatment of various diseases [15][16][17], as it has also been reported to show no toxic effects [18]. In clinical studies, it has been reported to alleviate diseases such as dia betes [19][20][21], obesity [22], cancer [23], nausea and vomiting [24]. ...
Article
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Zingiber officinale Roscoe (ginger) has long been used as an herbal medicine to treat various diseases, and its main sub-components, [6]-gingerol and [6]-shogaol, were also reported to have anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidant, and anti-tumor effects. However, their effects on various types of pain and their underlying mechanisms of action have not been clearly analyzed and understood yet. Thus, in this review, by analyzing 16 studies that used Z. officinale, [6]-gingerol, and [6]-shogaol on mechanical, spontaneous and thermal pain, their effects and mechanisms of action have been analyzed. Pain was induced by either nerve injury or chemical injections in rodents. Nine studies analyzed the analgesic effect of Z. officinale, and four and three studies focused on [6]-gingerol and [6]-shogaol, respectively. Seven papers have demonstrated the underlying mechanism of action of their analgesic effects. Studies have focused on the spinal cord and one on the dorsal root ganglion (DRG) neurons. Involvement and change in the function of serotonergic receptors (5-HT1A, B, D, and 5A), transient receptor potential vanilloid 1 (TRPV1), N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptors, phosphorylated extracellular signal-regulated kinase 1/2 (pERK1/2), histone deacetylase 1 (HDAC1), voltage-gated sodium channel 1.8 (Nav1.8), substance P (SP), and sciatic nerve’s morphology have been observed.
... Furthermore, the Ginger roots have been important for the regeneration of skin tissues over years. It also has good effect in the body but can lead to psoriasis and acne if used directly on the skin [7]. ...
Article
Aims: The objective of this study is to evaluate the antibacterial and sensory properties of a formulated medicinal soap. Study Design: Extraction of essential oils, purchase of vegetable oils and caustic soda, soap formulation, testing of its antibacterial and antifungal activities, evaluation of its acceptability. Place and Duration of Study: Research unit of biochemistry of medicinal plant, food and nutritional sciences, Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Science, University of Dschang from October 2019 to July 2020. Methodology: Cold saponification method was used for the production of soap using the following ingredients: Palm kernel oil, olive oil, coconut oil, Palm oleic, caustic soda, essential oils from ginger roots and cloves buds. The formulated soap was used for the evaluation of its anti-bacterial and anti-fungal activities as well as its acceptability using the 9-points hedonic scale. The soap was tested on the following microorganisms: Pseudomonas aeruginosa PA01, Staphylococcus aureus 56, Staphylococcus aureus 18, Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 25923, Candida albican, Candida tropicalis. Results: Results showed that the produced soap has bactericidal activities against staphylococcus aureus 18 and staphylococcus aureus ATCC 25923 and a bacteriostatic activity against staphylococcus aureus 56. Its activity against fungi was very low. The results of the sensory analysis of this product showed that it can be accepted by consumer since the lowest score was 6.55 in a scale of 9. Conclusion: Results showed that the produced soap has bactericidal activities against staphylococcus aureus 18 and staphylococcus aureus ATCC 25923 and a bacteriostatic activity against staphylococcus aureus 56. It was accepted with a score of at least 6.55/9 by the participants.
... One of the major constituents of ginger is gingerol. Gingerol, upon thermal processing, degrades into shogaols, which have greater thermal and acidic stability [119]. ...
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Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is one of the most outgrowing diseases of all, and globally, about 10% of the world's population is affected. Chronic kidney disease (CKD) occurs when the kidney can no longer perform its function to full capacity. There are currently two treatment options for CKD: dialysis and transplantation. Both existing treatment options have their demerits, including high cost, pain, sleep disturbances, restlessness, graft rejection, and much more. Zingiber officinale, also commonly known as ginger, is one of the most commonly used household herbs and a potential medicinal herb. It contains various phytochemicals such as essential oils, phenolic compounds, alkaloids, glycosides, flavonoids, terpenoids, saponin, tannin, protein, and carbohydrates. Ginger has been reported for multiple medicinal properties such as antibacterial, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, immune-modulatory, anti-hypertensive, anti-arthritic, hepatoprotective, and nephroprotective. The nephroprotective properties of ginger are less explored than their other therapeutic properties. Few research data suggest that the aqueous extracts of ginger lowered blood glucose, serum, urea, and creatinine levels in diabetic-induced rats. It also helped to restore the changes in the kidney due to toxicity. Thus, it protects renal tissues from structural damage caused by hypoglycemia, inhibits cholesterol absorption due to oxidative stress, and also boosts the kidney's defense mechanism. The in silico work performed on 64 phytochemicals against the Vitamin D3 receptor target protein of CKD showed the binding efficiency of phytochemicals against this target. Diterpene (Lactone) has shown a better binding score with optimal ADMET properties. Ginger compress therapy is a very simple treatment process, using pieces of ginger boiled in hot water, after which a towel is soaked in this ginger water and spread over the lower portion of the patient's back for around 30 minutes. After this, the area must be rubbed with a few drops of gingelly oil. Currently, many Siddha and Ayurveda practitioners in India and many other countries use this therapy to cure numerous patients. Deeper research into this therapy could enhance efficiency and provide a scientific approach.
... Ginger has been a part of healing strategies in Asia, India, Europe, and the Middle East for centuries for treatment of such disorders as arthritis, stomach upset, asthma, diabetes, and menstrual irregularities, to name a few. [11] Juices produced from tropical fruits have increasingly gained global importance due to their health effect. The significant of the study is to identify other different types of tropical fruits (e.g., orange, grape, pineapple, banana, guava and watermelon) readily available for the production of fruit juices. ...
... Ginger are not only used as spice from the age old period, they are one among the natural digestive medicine that can be included in the daily food we consume. Ginger contains number of bioactive compounds that have been proven to be alleviating for various health problems [28] . The primary constituents of ginger includes gingerols, anthocynanins and tannins in its roots [29]. ...
Article
In India there are several underutilized herbal plants that are of vital importance. Those under-utilized herbal plants can be very well naturally processed and used for consumption. The purpose of this study is aimed at developing an instant healthy herbal soup mix using various under-utilized herbal plants such as A.indica leaf powder, moringa leaf powder along with various other herbal ingredients. The major ingredients neem and moringa leaves are profoundly known for their enormous health benefits. Other ingredients such as onion, garlic, ginger, pepper species; are known to impart great flavor for the cooked product. Drying is one of the most effective method of preserving foods and powdered products are considered best in various aspects such as storage, package, consumption etc. Drying was done over different stages for each ingredients and the best was selected based on minimal loss in the nutrients. Physio-chemical tests and organoleptic test were carried out for the developed soup mix.
... Ginger relieves pain caused by arthritis by lowering prostaglandin levels. Some studies show that ginger can reduce pain and inflammation more effectively than non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as aspirin [31,32]. ...
Article
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Medicinal plants are considered as a major asset in any society. The role of these plants is more visible today than ever before and requires a stronger position every day. In recent years, research on their effects in various areas, including the fight against disease. Today’s lifestyle changes have caused various foods to cause more serious harm to humans by having substances and plaques that destroy oral tissue health. Viral and bacterial as well as using like mouthwashes and cleaners, fight against cancer and dietary supplements are developing and evolving. Chemical drugs, due to their side effects, sometimes damage other parts of the body. They need to be researched more in the future. In this short review paper, the effects of some of the most important medicinal plants like Curcuma longa, Ananas comosus, Zingiber offinale, Salvia rosmarinus, Mentha piperita and Syzygium aromaticum, that are used today to treat and improve oral health issues are introduced. Finally, suggestions for better and more use are given.
... Ginger (Zingiber officinale) is a member of the Zhingibaraceae family of plants. The plant is native to Asia, but now is cultivated in West Indies, Africa, India, and other tropical regions (Singletary, 2010). Ginger is a rhizome commonly consumed as a delicacy, medicine or spice. ...
Article
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Ginger is a biopharmaceutical commodity which has a high economic value. However, a long ginger trading system makes the position of farmers as the producer have low bargaining power. The purpose of this research was to analyze the value chain and develop strategies for increasing ginger commodities in Semarang Regency. The method used in this research was quantitative descriptive using primary data with the number of respondents as many as 98 ginger farmers, 2 collectors, 2 wholesalers, 2 retailers and 6 key persons. The variables in this research included value chains, marketing margins, cultivation, post-harvest, marketing, institutions and policies. The analysis tools used were Value Chain Analysis and Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP). The results showed that (1) Ginger farming in Semarang Regency was profitable with an average production or r/c ratio of 5,1. (2) There were three patterns of ginger trading in Semarang Regency, and their selection depended on the amount of production, transportation, facilities and capabilities owned by farmers. (3) The most prioritized criteria in the strategy of developing ginger farming in Semarang Regency covered marketing, cultivation, policy, harvesting and institutional aspects. Regarding these findings, suggestions or recommendations are given as follows: (1) carrying out harvesting process such as ginger powder independently. (2) forming ginger farmer groups to shorten the marketing chain of ginger, and increase the income of ginger farmers. (3) performing innovative digital marketing strategies.
... Propõe-se que o consumo total de um grama aconteça antes da exposição da mulher aos gatilhos conhecidos. Sugere-se a realização de pesquisas adicionais, com objetivo de determinar a segurança e a eficácia de diferentes do-ses de gengibre durante a gravidez, antes que se possa recomendá-lo por longos períodos (SINGLETARY, 2010). ...
... Ginger, a member of the Zingiberaceae family, consists of several components, including gingerol, zingerone, shogaol, paradols, and β-bisabolene. This plant is used as a spice in both foods and beverages in Asian countries for thousands of years (Sahebkar 2011;Singletary 2010). This herb exhibits several unique beneficial effects on human health, such as its antioxidant, anti-inflammation, antimicrobial, antihypertensive, antidiabetic, cardioprotective, anticancer, antiemetic, chemopreventive, and gastroprotective (Ali et al. 2008;Baliga et al. 2011;Panahi et al. 2012). ...
Article
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Obesity is abnormal fat accumulation in the body which acts as a risk factor for various cardiometabolic states. Adipose tissue in excess can release inflammatory factors, including TNF-α and IL-6, and suppress adiponectin production. TNF-α increases the levels of IL-6 and acute phase reactants such as C-reactive protein. Inflammation has a crucial role in developing and progressing various cardiometabolic diseases and a wide range of obesity-related complications. It has been shown that TNF-α has a significant role in the development of insulin resistance. Recently, a growing body of evidence has focused on herbal medicine, phytochemicals and natural bioactive compounds as inexpensive, relatively easy accessible agents with low adverse effects to reduce inflammatory markers such as TNF-α and simultaneously decrease insulin resistance, glucose intolerance, and dyslipidemia in obesity. The main focus of the current review is to summarize the results of the studies, which assessed the effects of phytochemicals and herbal bio-active compounds on serum TNF-α in subjects with overweight or obesity. This review suggests that herbal medicine have favorable effects on the reduction of TNF-α concentration; however, the results were not uniform for different products. Among the reviewed plants, ginger, ginseng, resveratrol, and flaxseed had more promising effects.
... Its consumption is usually due to the health beneficial activities of different metabolites. The health benefits include neuroprotective and cognitive-enhancing effects, antinausea, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, antimicrobial, and anti-cancer effects (Singletary, 2010;Ma et al., 2021). The unique flavor of the ginger is due to a group of volatile phenolic compounds known as gingerols (Chen et al., 2020a). ...
Article
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Ginger ( Zingiber officinale Roscoe) is known for its unique pungent taste and useability in traditional Chinese medicine. The main compounds in ginger rhizome can be classified as gingerols, diarylheptanoids, and volatile oils. The composition and concentrations of the bioactive compounds in ginger rhizome might vary according to the age of the rhizome. In this regard, the knowledge on the transcriptomic signatures and accumulation of metabolites in young (Y), mature (M), and old (O) ginger rhizomes is scarce. This study used HiSeq Illumina Sequencing and UPLC-MS/MS analyses to delineate how the expression of key genes changes in Y, M, and O ginger rhizome tissues and how it affects the accumulation of metabolites in key pathways. The transcriptome sequencing identified 238,157 genes of which 13,976, 11,243, and 24,498 were differentially expressed (DEGs) in Y vs. M, M vs. O, and Y vs. O, respectively. These DEGs were significantly enriched in stilbenoid, diarylheptanoid, and gingerol biosynthesis, phenylpropanoid biosynthesis, plant-hormone signal transduction, starch and sucrose metabolism, linoleic acid metabolism, and α-linoleic acid metabolism pathways. The metabolome profiling identified 661 metabolites of which 311, 386, and 296 metabolites were differentially accumulated in Y vs. M, Y vs. O, and M vs. O, respectively. These metabolites were also enriched in the pathways mentioned above. The DEGs and DAMs enrichment showed that the gingerol content is higher in Y rhizome, whereas the Y, M, and O tissues differ in linoleic and α-linoleic acid accumulation. Similarly, the starch and sucrose metabolism pathway is variably regulated in Y, M, and O rhizome tissues. Our results showed that ginger rhizome growth slows down (Y > M > O) probably due to changes in phytohormone signaling. Young ginger rhizome is the most transcriptionally and metabolically active tissue as compared to M and O. The transitioning from Y to M and O affects the gingerol, sugars, linoleic acid, and α-linoleic acid concentrations and related gene expressions.
... The content of bioactive metabolites has anti-inflammatory, anticancer, antioxidant, and antiemetic properties [4]. [5] In vitro studies show that ginger is beneficial for cardiovascular disease, inflammation, hyperlipidemia, thrombocytopenia aggregation, and hypertension [6]. ...
Article
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Ginger (Zingiber officinale), a member of the Zingiberaceae family, has been shown to have anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, anti-nausea/antiemetic, antibacterial, cytotoxic, and antidiabetic effects. Red ginger rhizome has been used as a spice, culinary flavoring, and herbal medicine. Our research shows that gingerol has the potential to be an anti-oxidant. The Assay of Antioxidant Activity using FRAP method is used to screen potential activity. The gingerol concentration of Ginger-Ethanolic extract (MGE) was 2.8 %, and the antioxidant activity was 1.96 mmol Fe(II)/100g, to the antioxidant activity of gallic acid that is 9.34 mmol Fe (II)/100 g. The equation for the standard calibration curve for comparison (6)-gingerol obtained is Y = 23.124 X + 1509.65. It can be concluded that MGE has antioxidant potential activity.
... Ginger could be used as an anti-thrombotic and anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and anticancer agent. [2,3] ginger exerts many direct and indirect effects on blood pressure and heart rate, it can be used to treat migraine, diabetes, retinopathy, ulcer and cancer. it can also treat elephantiasis, its tonic helps in memory improvement, preserves liver health. ...
Conference Paper
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The purpose of this research was to investigate the effect of eight weeks of resistance training and ginger supplementation on some inflammatory indicators in type 2 diabetes patients in Shiraz city. Methods: For this purpose in a semi-experimental design with double-blind, 44 type 2 diabetic patients (Fasting glucose ≥126mg.dl) (with average height 169.92±7.20 cm, weight 82.41±6.34 Kg, age 53.49±7.01 years and BMI 28.57±2.07 m2), randomly divided into four groups: ginger, resistance training plus placebo consumption, resistance training plus ginger and placebo. The subjects in the ginger group received 1 gram of ginger capsule (zintoma) daily for 8 weeks. Subjects of resistance training groups also carried out a progressive resistance protocol with 65 to 80 percent of 1RM for 8 weeks (Three times a week). Before and 48 hours after eight weeks of training, blood samples were collected from the antecubital vein. CRP concentration was calculated by the ELISA reader method. Data analysis was performed using dependent t-test and one-way ANOVA and Tukey's post hoc test at a significance level of (p≥0.05). Results: This research showed that CRP concentration decreased significantly in all groups except the placebo group (p = 0.005), but no significant difference was observed in the control group (p ≤ 0.05). Conclusion: Finally, based on the results obtained, long-term consumption of ginger and resistance training has reduced the concentration of CRP, so long-term resistance training plus ginger supplement can be an effective factor for favorable changes in the inflammatory index of type 2 diabetes patients.
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6-Gingerol, the main active ingredient in ginger, exhibits a variety of biological activities, such as antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anticancer activities, and can affect cell development. However, the effects of 6-gingerol on mammalian reproductive processes, especially early embryonic development, are unclear. This study explored whether 6-gingerol can be used to improve the quality of in vitro-cultured porcine embryos. The results showed that 5 μM 6-gingerol significantly increased the blastocyst formation rates of porcine early embryos. 6-Gingerol attenuated intracellular reactive oxygen species accumulation and autophagy, increased intracellular glutathione levels, and increased mitochondrial activity. In addition, 6-gingerol upregulated NANOG, SRY-box transcription factor 2, cytochrome c oxidase subunit II, mechanistic target of rapamycin kinase, and RPTOR independent companion of MTOR complex 2 while downregulating Caspase 3, baculoviral IAP repeat containing 5, autophagy related 12, and Beclin 1. Most importantly, 6-gingerol significantly increased the levels of p-extracellular regulated protein kinase 1/2 while reducing the levels of p-c-Jun N-terminal kinase 1/2/3 and p-p38. These results indicate that 6-gingerol can promote the development of porcine early embryos in vitro.
Chapter
In the Peruvian Amazon, the Awajun indigenous populations have treated diseases traditionally through the consumption of medicinal plants and consultations with healers. Even though these traditional medicinal treatments are declining since the introduction of modern medicine into the Awajun ambit, the use of traditional medicinal plants is still applied by these populations, and Awajun women, especially the elderly, are playing a vital role in preserving and transferring the remaining ecological traditional knowledge to the coming generation. Among all the medicinal plants still applied by these populations, ginger (Zingiber officinale Roscoe) has played an important role in the health of these Awajun groups since its introduction (eighteenth century), leading even to replace native plants due to its effectiveness, and becoming the most recognized medicinal plant in the Awajun culture so far. Among all its benefits, various authors converge that ginger is considered the medicinal plant most used in childbirth and post-childbirth, or in regulating fertility in these indigenous groups. This chapter makes a compilation of different traditional uses of ginger in Awajun communities, where some of them are validated with current and promising scientific findings such as the ginger variety, Bukuchap ajeg, to reduce the menstrual flow ceases during dysmenorrhea or Akap ajeg to alleviate the different types of colic, including menstrual pain. In addition, we introduce Elsa Wajai Ampush, an Awajun traditional knowledge holder, who explains to us her interaction with this plant and its applications in different medicinal purposes besides fertility matters. Therefore, we propose to explain how this introduced plant species, ginger, has been rooted culturally in the Awajun populations so far due to its importance in health purposes that science is advancing in proving.
Article
Objective: Ginger (Zingiber officinale) has various medicinal properties, including anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, anti-nausea/antiemetic, antibacterial, cytotoxic, and antidiabetic activities. Methods: In silico analysis was performed to predict absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion (ADME). Prediction of bond and bond free energy using Autodock Vina, MGL Tools and Biovia Discovery Studio. Gingerol content of Ginger-Ethanolic Extract (MGE) was determined by thin-layer chromatography densitometry and cytotoxic activity by MTT assay. Results : The Gibbs free energy value for 6-Gingerol is-7.686 (kcal/mol), and 6-Shogaol is-7.279 (kcal/mol). Prediction of hydrogen bonding at 6-Gingerol in the amino acids Arg394, Glu353, Ala350. Hydrogen bonding in shogaol on the amino acid Arg394. Statistical analysis showed that the MGE could significantly inhibit breast cancer cells T47D growth (P< 0.05) with IC50 was 16.51 ± 3.67 μg/mL. Conclusion : Based on in silico and in vitro screening Zingiber officinale var. Rubrum has the potential to be developed for anticancer treatment.
Chapter
Ayurvedic Medicine, or Ayurveda, is a traditional Indian health care system. Research into the medicinal plants utilised in Ayurveda is becoming a global endeavour, and large pharmaceutical companies are investing in novel drug discovery from Ayurvedic sources as a number of clinical studies have demonstrated efficacy of natural products from Ayurvedic plant extracts against common ailments such as arthritis and diabetes. Ayurvedic medicine and its components have been well described in the past, but this book represents a comprehensive source on the biochemistry and mechanisms of the pharmacological effects of natural products from Ayurvedic sources. This book is a valuable resource for researchers in natural products and alternative sources of bioactive compounds in drug discovery, as well as pharmaceutical experts and those in industry.
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Ulcerative colitis, Crohn's disease, rheumatoid arthritis, psoriasis, and lupus erythemato-sus are some of common inflammatory diseases. These affections are highly disabling and share signals such as inflammatory sequences and immune dysregulation. The use of foods with anti-inflammatory properties such as ginger (Zingiber officinale Roscoe) could improve the quality of life of these patients. Ginger is a plant widely used and known by its bioactive compounds. There is enough evidence to prove that ginger possesses multiple biological activities, especially antioxidant and anti-inflammatory capacities. In this review, we summarize the current knowledge about the bioactive compounds of ginger and their role in the inflammatory process and its signaling pathways. We can conclude that the compounds 6-shoagol, zingerone, and 8-shoagol display promising results in human and animal models, reducing some of the main symptoms of some inflammatory diseases such as arthritis. For lupus, 6-gingerol demonstrated a protective attenuating neutrophil extracellular trap release in response to phosphodiesterase inhibition. Ginger decreases NF-kβ in psoriasis, and its short-term administration may be an alternative coadjuvant treatment. Ginger may exert a function of supplementation and protection against cancer. Furthermore, when receiving chemotherapy, ginger may reduce some symptoms of treatment (e.g., nausea).
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Ice cream is a wholesome, nutritious frozen dairy product. Consumer acceptance of ice cream depends largely on its structure, textural quality, resistance to melting, nutritional composition and flavour. Incorporation of fruits and spices is one of the choices to increase consumer acceptance. The study was focused to develop a nutritional and flavour rich palmyra pulp ice cream with selected spices and jaggery. Eight sensory evaluation tests were carried out with 30 semi-trained panellist using 5 point hedonic scales. Initial sensory evaluation test results reveals pulp which is less bitter and added in overrun combination was selected for both natural and commercial pulp. Then 25% of pulp was selected for both type of pulp. By using the combination which is selected in previous sensory evaluation natural pulp ice cream and commercial pulp ice cream were developed. From that; natural pulp ice cream was preferred as best. Then for the selected ice cream, 125 ppm level of ginger and cinnamon oleoresins incorporated products were selected as best outputs. When comparing cinnamon natural pulp ice cream and ginger natural pulp ice cream, the first one was preferred because of bitterness masking property of ginger. At the end of sensory evaluations, jaggery added ginger flavoured natural palmyra ice cream was developed without adding artificial colouring and preservatives.
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Background: Migraine sufferers seek a range of treatments according to the frequency and severity of their symptoms. Just a few research studies have shown the effectiveness of ginger derivatives for migraine treatment. Ginger has analgesic properties and is effective for the acute treatment of migraines, and there is anecdotal evidence of its effectiveness in migraine prevention. Objectives: The goal of this research was to see whether ginger may help prophylaxis of migraine episodes. Methods: This randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical study was done in the Neurology Clinic of Golestan Hospital (Ahvaz, Iran). This research enrolled 103 individuals with episodic migraine aged 18 to 50 years. Randomization was used to divide the participants into two groups: control and intervention. For three months, patients were given 500 mg dry extract of ginger (5% active component) or placebo (starch) tablets twice a day. At the baseline and end of the study, MIDAS score, the number and duration of migraine attacks, headache severity, demographic data, dietary intakes, and anthropometric indices were collected. The data were statistically analyzed using the SPSS (version 26). In all tests, a P < 0.05 was deemed statistically significant. Results: At the end of the study, MIDAS score, duration of migraine attacks, and headache severity decreased significantly in the ginger group compared to the placebo group (P < 0.05). Furthermore, there was no statistically significant difference in the number of migraine episodes between the two groups. Conclusions: Compared to the placebo, ginger has a stronger efficacy in the prevention of migraine.
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Ginger (Zingiber officinale Roscoe) is an important spice crop in China, and fresh ginger rhizomes are consumed as vegetable in Sichuan and Chongqing. However, tissue lignification accelerates with rhizome maturation, resulting in the loss of edible quality. To understand the molecular mechanisms of texture modification during rhizome development, we investigated lignin accumulation patterns and identified the key genes associated with lignin biosynthesis using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS), liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) and RNA-sequencing (RNA-Seq). Results showed that the contents of total lignin and its precursors exhibited notable declines with tissue maturation. However, the lignin composition was remarkably modified and syringyl lignin was deposited in mature rhizomes, leading to ginger lignification. Transcriptome analysis displayed 32 lignin biosynthetic genes were dramatically downregulated with rhizome development, including caffeoylshikimate esterase (CSE), 4-coumarate-CoA ligase, laccase, cinnamoyl-CoA reductase, cinnamyl-alcohol dehydrogenase, peroxidase and caffeic acid 3-O-methyltransferase, indicating that lignin reduction might be attributed to deficiency in intermediates or the downregulation of key biosynthetic enzymes. Furthermore, overexpressing ZoCSE in Nicotiana benthamiana L. enhanced the total lignin content, suggesting its fundamental role in lignin biosynthesis. RNA-Seq also identified candidate lignin production regulators, including hormone-related genes and NAC/MYB transcription factors (ZoNAC1, ZoNAC4, ZoMYB14 and ZoMYB17). This result provides a molecular basis for lignin accumulation in ginger.
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Purpose Postoperative nausea and vomiting is one of the most common side effects associated with anesthesia. The aim of this study is to determine the effect of ginger on severity and incidence of nausea and vomiting after lower and upper limb surgery. Design This was a triple-blinded clinical trial. Methods Sixty eligible patients were randomly assigned to the intervention and control groups. The intervention group received four 250 mg ginger capsules and the control group received four placebo capsules 2 hours before surgery. Incidence and severity of nausea and vomiting immediately after the surgery and 2, 4, 6, and 8 hours after the surgery were evaluated. Findings The results of this study showed that the use of ginger capsules significantly reduces the incidence and severity of postoperative nausea and vomiting at different hours after surgery compared to placebo, P < .05, irrespective of the gender and the age of the patients. Conclusions Use of ginger is effective in decreasing postoperative nausea and vomiting. However, further studies in comorbid patients are required to verify these outcomes.
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Consumer acceptance of ice cream depends largely on its structure, textural quality, resistance to melting, nutritional composition and flavour. Incorporation of fruits and spices is one of the choices to increase consumer acceptance. The study was focused to develop a nutritional and flavour rich palmyra pulp ice cream with selected spices and jaggery. Eight sensory evaluation tests were carried out with 30 semi-trained panellist using 5 point hedonic scales. Initial sensory evaluation test results reveals pulp which is less bitter and added in overrun combination was selected for both natural and commercial pulp. Then 25% of pulp was selected for both type of pulp. By using the combination which is selected in previous sensory evaluation natural pulp ice cream and commercial pulp ice cream were developed. From that; natural pulp ice cream was preferred as best. Then for the selected ice cream, 125 ppm level of ginger and cinnamon oleoresins incorporated products were selected as best outputs. When comparing cinnamon natural pulp ice cream and ginger natural pulp ice cream, the first was preferred due to bitterness masking property of ginger. Finaly, jaggery added ginger flavoured natural palmyra ice cream was developed without adding artificial colours and preservatives. Cite as: Ratnasingam. P., Jayasinghe. M., A., 2021 sensory variation analysis in ice cream made by palmyra (borassus flabellifer) pulp with jaggery and selected spices. Agric. Sci. J. 3(2): 35-50.
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Primary hypothyroidism is a common disease. Some patients have persistent symptoms despite normal serum thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) levels. Ginger is reported to be beneficial in relieving similar symptoms. Our aim was to evaluate the efficacy of ginger supplementation in relieving persistent symptoms in these patients. In this randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial, 60 hypothyroid patients aged 20–60 years with normal serum TSH concentrations were randomly allocated to two equal parallel study groups of ginger (500 mg twice a day) or placebo for 30 days. Hypothyroid symptoms were evaluated as the primary outcome using the Thyroid Symptom Rating Questionnaire (ThySRQ) before and after the intervention. Anthropometric measures and laboratory indices including TSH, triglyceride (TG), total cholesterol (TChol), and fasting blood sugar (FBS) were considered as secondary outcomes. A significant lower mean total ThySRQ score (8.63 ± 5.47 vs. 15.76 ± 6.09, P < 0.001 ) was observed in the ginger group compared to the control group. Ginger led to significant improvements in the mean scores of the weight gain, cold intolerance, constipation, dry skin, appetite, memory loss, concentration disturbance, and feeling giddy or dizzy domains ( P < 0.001 ). However, no significant improvements were observed in hair loss, nail fragility, hearing, hoarseness, speech, and depression or feeling down ( P > 0.05 ). Ginger supplementation also led to a significant decrease in body weight, body mass index, waist circumference, serum TSH, FBS, TG, and TChol levels compared to the placebo. In summary according to preliminary results of this study, ginger supplementation can help relieve persistent hypothyroid symptoms. Also, it may have beneficial effects in terms of weight reduction and regulation of the FBS and lipid profile in hypothyroid patients.
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Ginger ( Zingiber officinale ) is one of the most widely used natural products consumed as a spice and medicine for treating diabetes, flatulent intestinal colic, indigestion, infertility, inflammation, insomnia, a memory booster, nausea, rheumatism, stomach ache, and urinary tract infections. To date, over 400 bioactive components, such as diarylheptanoids, gingerol analogues, phenylalkanoids, sulfonates, monoterpenoid glycosides, steroids, and terpene compounds have been derived from ginger. Increasing evidence has revealed that ginger possesses a broad range of biological activities, especially protective effects against male infertility, nausea and vomiting, analgesic, anti-diabetic, anti-inflammatory, anti-obesity, and other effects. The pharmacological activities of ginger were mainly attributed to its active phytoconstituents such as 6-gingerol, gingerdiol, gingerol, gingerdione, paradols, shogaols, sesquiterpenes, zingerone, besides other phenolics and flavonoids. In recent years, in silico molecular docking studies revealed that gingerol (6-gingerol, 8-gingerol, and 10-gingerol) and Shogaol (6-shogaol, 8-shogaol, 10-shogaol) had the best binding affinities to the receptor protein in disease conditions such as diabetes, inflammation, obesity, and SARS-CoV-2. Furthermore, some clinical trials have indicated that ginger can be consumed for alleviation of nausea and vomiting induced by surgery, pain, diabetes, obesity, inflammation, male infertility. This review provides an updated understanding of the scientific evidence on the development of ginger and its active compounds as health beneficial agents in future clinical trials.
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Due to many therapeutic effects, Ginger (Zingiber officinale) is the most widely used spice around the world, including in Iran. Due to its potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, ginger may protect against neurodegenerative disorders. Here, we investigated the effects of 6-gingerol (the main bioactive compound in ginger) on 6-hydroxydopamine (6-OHDA)-induced cell death in PC12 cells. Cell viability, cell apoptosis, and stress-activated protein kinase/c-Jun N-terminal kinase (SAPK/JNK), and survivin expression were measured using resazurin, propidium iodide (PI) and flow cytometry, and western blot analysis. 6-OHDA (100 μM) reduced the cell viability, increased apoptosis, increased the active form of SAPK/JNK, and decreased survivin protein level in PC12 exposed cells in a dose and time-dependent manner. Pretreatment with 6-gingerol significantly increased the viability and reduced apoptosis (2.5 and 5 µM). Also, pretreatment with 6-gingerol at 2.5 and 5 µM increased survivin whereas, 6-gingerol at 2.5 µM reduced (P-SAPK/JNK):(SAPK/JNK) levels to a level near that of the related control. According to the results, 6-gingerol blocks 6-OHDA-induced cell damage by suppressing oxidative stress and anti-apoptotic activity. Thus, 6-gingerol may process beneficial protective effects in slowing the progression of Parkinson's disease.
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The aim of this study was to determine the effects of ginger in nausea and vomiting of pregnancy. This was a single blind clinical trial study. The study was conducted in a selected prenatal care clinic of Isfahan City hospitals. The subjects included 67 pregnant women who complained of nausea and vomiting from Isfahan city hospitals participated in the study. The participants were randomly assigned to two groups, an experimental group and a control group. The groups were matched according to the age, gestational age, parity, occupational status, and educational level of the participants. The experimental group received ginger 250 mg capsules for 4 days, and the control group received placebo with the same prescription form. Effects of treatment of nausea were evaluated twice daily for 4 days by a before-and-after treatment questionnaire. The mean ages of the experimental and control groups were 24.1 +/- 4.8 and 23.3 +/- 5 years, respectively. The mean gestational age was 13 +/- 3 weeks, and the mean parity was 1.6 +/- 0.8. The ginger users demonstrated a higher rate of improvement than the placebo users did (85% versus 56%; p < 0.01). The decrease in vomiting times among ginger users was also significantly greater than among the women who received the placebo (50% versus 9%; p < 0.05). A daily total of 1000 mg of ginger in a capsule preparation can be suggested by care providers as a means of decreasing pregnancy nausea and vomiting in women who tend to herbal medicines. Ginger is an effective herbal remedy for decreasing nausea and vomiting during pregnancy.
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Ginger has known hypoalgesic and anti-inflammatory properties. The effects of an oral dose of ginger on quadriceps muscle pain, rating of perceived exertion (RPE), and recovery of oxygen consumption were examined during and after moderate-intensity cycling exercise. Twenty-five college-age participants ingested a 2-g dose of ginger or placebo in a double-blind, crossover design and 30 min later completed 30 min of cycling at 60% of VO2peak. Quadriceps muscle pain, RPE, work rate, heart rate (HR), and oxygen uptake (VO2) were recorded every 5 min during exercise, and HR and VO2 were recorded for 20 min after exercise. Compared with placebo, ginger had no clinically meaningful or statistically significant effect on perceptions of muscle pain, RPE, work rate, HR, or VO2 during exercise. Recovery of VO2 and HR after the 30-min exercise bout followed a similar time course in the ginger and placebo conditions. The results were consistent with related findings showing that ingesting a large dose of aspirin does not acutely alter quadriceps muscle pain during cycling, and this suggests that prostaglandins do not play a large role in this type of exercise-induced skeletal-muscle pain. Ginger consumption has also been shown to improve VO2 recovery in an equine exercise model, but these results show that this is not the case in humans.
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To evaluate the effect of ginger extract on the expression of NFkappaB and TNF-alpha in liver cancer-induced rats. Male Wistar rats were randomly divided into 5 groups based on diet: i) control (given normal rat chow), ii) olive oil, iii) ginger extract (100mg/kg body weight), iv) choline-deficient diet + 0.1% ethionine to induce liver cancer and v) choline-deficient diet + ginger extract (100mg/kg body weight). Tissue samples obtained at eight weeks were fixed with formalin and embedded in paraffin wax, followed by immunohistochemistry staining for NFkappaB and TNF-alpha. The expression of NFkappaB was detected in the choline-deficient diet group, with 88.3 +/- 1.83% of samples showing positive staining, while in the choline-deficient diet supplemented with ginger group, the expression of NFkappaB was significantly reduced, to 32.35 +/- 1.34% (p<0.05). In the choline-deficient diet group, 83.3 +/- 4.52% of samples showed positive staining of TNF-alpha, which was significantly reduced to 7.94 +/- 1.32% (p<0.05) when treated with ginger. There was a significant correlation demonstrated between NFkappaB and TNF-alpha in the choline-deficient diet group but not in the choline-deficient diet treated with ginger extract group. In conclusion, ginger extract significantly reduced the elevated expression of NFkappaB and TNF-alpha in rats with liver cancer. Ginger may act as an anti-cancer and anti-inflammatory agent by inactivating NFkappaB through the suppression of the pro-inflammatory TNF-alpha.
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Ginger has been used to treat numerous types of nausea and vomiting. Ginger has also been studied for its efficacy for acute chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting (CINV). However, its efficacy for delayed CINV in a diverse oncology population is unknown. We performed a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial in 162 patients with cancer who were receiving chemotherapy and had experienced CINV during at least one previous round of chemotherapy. All participants were receiving a 5-HT3 receptor antagonists and/or aprepitant. Participants were randomized to receive either 1.0 g ginger, 2.0 g ginger daily, or matching placebo for 3 days. The primary outcome was change in the prevalence of delayed CINV. Secondary outcomes included acute prevalence of CINV, acute and delayed severity of CINV, and assessment of blinding. There were no differences between groups in the prevalence of delayed nausea or vomiting, prevalence of acute CINV, or severity of delayed vomiting or acute nausea and vomiting. Participants who took both ginger and aprepitant had more severe acute nausea than participants who took only aprepitant. Participants were able to accurately guess which treatment they had received. Ginger appeared well tolerated, with no difference in all adverse events (AEs) and significantly less fatigue and miscellaneous AEs in the ginger group. Ginger provides no additional benefit for reduction of the prevalence or severity of acute or delayed CINV when given with 5-HT3 receptor antagonists and/or aprepitant.
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The present study evaluated functional properties of lactic-fermented ginger products. Three Zingiberaceae species were used as the substrate for fermentation using three lactic acid bacteria. The fermentation process ended 35-40 h after inoculation and reached a pH value of 3.5-4.0. Total antioxidant performances were 68-75%, and were best observed using Bifidobacterium longum as the starter in three ginger samples. DPPH scavenging was on average 70%, with free radical anion scavenging and peroxide removal effects of 30.6% and 43.7%, respectively. The product acceptance survey showed that the 100% fermented juice without a mixture with non-fermented ginger juice obtained the highest score in overall performance. The lactic-fermented Vanoverberghia and Hedychium ginger species retained an antioxidant activity and DPPH scavenging activity of on average 70%. This study may suggest a new way of ginger food processing with high functionality. Also, it may help to popularize the growing and processing of endemic ginger plants in Taiwan.
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Ginger rhizome (Zingiber officinale) has been used for centuries to treat dementia in South Asia. This study was undertaken to possibly justify its use. A 70% aqueous/methanolic extract of dried ginger (Zo.Cr) was used. Zo.Cr tested positive for the presence of terpenoids, flavonoids, secondary amines, phenols, alkaloids and saponins. When tested on isolated rat stomach fundus, Zo.Cr showed a spasmogenic effect (0.03-5.00 mg mL(-1)); it relaxed the tissue at concentrations > or =5 mg mL(-1). The stimulant effect was resistant to blockade by hexamethonium and methysergide, but sensitive to atropine, indicating activity via muscarinic receptors. In atropinized (0.1 microM) preparations, Zo.Cr (0.3-3.0 mg mL(-1)) relaxed high K(+) (80 mM)-induced contractions, indicating Ca(++) antagonism in addition to the muscarinic effect. This possible Ca(++) antagonist activity was investigated in Ca(++)-free conditions, with the inhibitory effect of the extract tested against contractions induced by externally administered Ca(++). Zo.Cr (0.1-0.3 mg mL(-1)), similar to verapamil (0.03-0.10 microM), shifted the contractions induced by externally administered Ca(++) to the right, thus suggesting an inhibitory interaction between Zo.Cr and voltage-operated Ca(++) channels. Zo.Cr (0.1-3.0 microg mL(-1)) also potentiated acetylcholine peak responses in stomach fundus, similar to physostigmine, a cholinesterase inhibitor. Zo.Cr, in an in-vitro assay, showed specific inhibition of butyrylcholinesterase (BuChE) rather than acetylcholinesterase enzyme. Different pure compounds of ginger also showed spasmolytic activity in stomach fundus, with 6-gingerol being the most potent. 6-Gingerol also showed a specific anti-BuChE effect. This study shows a unique combination of muscarinic, possible Ca(++) antagonist and BuChE inhibitory activities of dried ginger, indicating its benefit in dementia, including Alzheimer's disease.
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The conventional procedure for screening bioactive components from traditional Chinese medicine is time-consuming, expensive and low efficient. Therefore, some alternative strategies are needed urgently. A novel method for screening anti-platelet aggregation components from oleoresins was developed using chicken thrombocyte extract and high performance liquid chromatography. The anti-platelet aggregation components of oleoresins were combined with receptors, channels and enzymes of chicken thrombocytes under physiological environment. Unbound substances were washed away and bound compounds were eluted using specific phosphate buffered solution (PBS). Compounds released from target sites were collected and analyzed by high performance liquid chromatography and LC-MS. The activity of three compounds which were screened from this model was confirmed using platelet aggregation pharmacology in vivo. There were four typical compounds that bound to the thrombocytes: 6-gingerol, 8-gingerol, 6-shogaol and 10-gingerol, and all had shown anti-platelet aggregation activities. Eight-gingerol displayed the best anti-platelet aggregation effect. Chicken thrombocyte extract can be used to isolate chemicals that are ligands of the receptor or other bio-targets on the platelet. This may therefore be a simple and efficient method to screen for anti-platelet aggregation compounds from traditional Chinese medicine.
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Ginger shows promising anticancer properties. No research has examined the pharmacokinetics of the ginger constituents 6-gingerol, 8-gingerol, 10-gingerol, and 6-shogaol in humans. We conducted a clinical trial with 6-gingerol, 8-gingerol, 10-gingerol, and 6-shogaol, examining the pharmacokinetics and tolerability of these analytes and their conjugate metabolites. Human volunteers were given ginger at doses from 100 mg to 2.0 g (N = 27), and blood samples were obtained at 15 minutes to 72 hours after a single p.o. dose. The participants were allocated in a dose-escalation manner starting with 100 mg. There was a total of three participants at each dose except for 1.0 g (N = 6) and 2.0 g (N = 9). No participant had detectable free 6-gingerol, 8-gingerol, 10-gingerol, or 6-shogaol, but 6-gingerol, 8-gingerol, 10-gingerol, and 6-shogaol glucuronides were detected. The 6-gingerol sulfate conjugate was detected above the 1.0-g dose, but there were no detectable 10-gingerol or 6-shogaol sulfates except for one participant with detectable 8-gingerol sulfate. The C(max) and area under the curve values (mean +/- SE) estimated for the 2.0-g dose are 0.85 +/- 0.43, 0.23 +/- 0.16, 0.53 +/- 0.40, and 0.15 +/- 0.12 microg/mL; and 65.6.33 +/- 44.4, 18.1 +/- 20.3, 50.1 +/- 49.3, and 10.9 +/- 13.0 microg x hr/mL for 6-gingerol, 8-gingerol, 10-gingerol, and 6-shogaol. The corresponding t(max) values are 65.6 +/- 44.4, 73.1 +/- 29.4, 75.0 +/- 27.8, and 65.6 +/- 22.6 minutes, and the analytes had elimination half-lives <2 hours. The 8-gingerol, 10-gingerol, and 6-shogaol conjugates were present as either glucuronide or sulfate conjugates, not as mixed conjugates, although 6-gingerol and 10-gingerol were an exception. Six-gingerol, 8-gingerol, 10-gingerol, and 6-shogaol are absorbed after p.o. dosing and can be detected as glucuronide and sulfate conjugates.
Article
In traditional medicine the rhizome of ginger was held to possess medicinal properties. The scientific investigations relating to consumption of fresh or powdered rhizome by humans and in vitro effects of aqueous and organic extracts and of volatile oils are reviewed. Pungent components of ginger inhibit cyclooxygenase and lipoxygenase activity in the arachidonic acid metabolic pathway and thereby probably reduce inflammation and relieve pain in rheumatic disorders and migraine headache. Consumption of ginger reduces plasma thromboxane B2 (TXB2) levels in humans. Ginger is reported to reduce nausea vertigo and vomiting for which the mechanism of action is however not yet understood. Effects on the gastrointestinal system include increase in bile secretion and anti-emetic action. An acetone extract of ginger and (6)-shogaol given orally, accelerate gastroinstestinal movement in mice while given i.v. (6)-shogaol inhibits such movement. Galanolactone antagonises 5-HT3 receptors which may explain the anti-emetic and gastrointestinal movement enhancing effects. Zingiberone and(6)-gingerol are reported to protect against gastric mucosal lesions. (6)-Shogaol is known to reduce blood pressure by both a central and a peripheral action. (8)-Gingerol has a cardiotonic action via enhancement of the Ca-ATPase in the sarcoplasmic reticulum. Ginger contains mutagenic (gingerol and shogaol) and anti-mutagenic (zingiberone) compounds. Ginger extract exhibits cytotoxic effects in cultured plant cells but it is not known whether ginger can suppress tumour growth in experimental animals or humans. Some of the chemical compounds from ginger may prove to have anti-inflammatory, anti-emetic, cardiotonic and gastroprotective properties in humans without side effects.
Article
Background: The aim of this study was to compare the prophylactic effects of dexamethasone plus ginger and dexamethasone alone on postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV) in patients undergoing thyroidectomy. Methods: One hundred and twenty patients undergoing general anaesthesia for thyroidectomy were enrolled in this randomised, double-blind study. Patients received oral diazepam 10mg with either oral placebo (group I) or 0.5g of ginger (group II) as premedication 1 hour prior to surgery. Standard general anaesthetic techniques and postoperative analgesia were employed. Both group I and group II received intravenous dexamethasone 150 μg/kg immediately before the induction of anaesthesia. Data were recorded over a 24-hour observation period after surgery. Results: In the dexamethasone-treated group, 14 patients experienced nausea, two patients retched, three patients vomited once, two patients vomited repeatedly, and 14 patients required a rescue antiemetic. In the dexamethasone-plus-gingertreated group, 12 patients experienced nausea, one patient retched, four patients vomited once, no patients vomited repeatedly, and 13 patients required a rescue antiemetic. Dexamethasone plus ginger did not significantly reduce nausea and vomiting compared with dexamethasone alone during the observation period. Conclusion: In conclusion, the prophylactic combination of antiemetic treatment with dexamethasone and ginger was not clinically or statistically superior to dexamethasone alone in preventing PONV in patients undergoing thyroidectomy.
Article
The pharmacological effects of crude drugs and other plant extracts on the contractile responses to serotonin (5-HT) in isolated guinea pig ileum were examined. The acetone extract of giner was found to possess an anti-serotonergic effect. The extract was further fractionated by column chromatography and results showed that [6]-, [8]- and [10]-gingerol were the active components exhibiting anti-5-HT action.
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Mild-to-moderate nausea and vomiting of pregnancy affects up to 80% of all pregnancies. Concern about antiemetic use and the time-limited nature of symptoms has restrained the development of effective treatment approaches, yet supportive, dietary, and lifestyle changes may be ineffective. This article reviews 4 recent well-controlled, double-blind, randomized clinical studies that provide convincing evidence for the effectiveness of ginger in treating nausea and vomiting of pregnancy. It also provides a dosage update for the various forms of ginger.
Article
Ginger (Zingiber officinale Roscoe) continues to be used as an important cooking spice and herbal medicine around the world. Scientific research has gradually verified the antidiabetic effects of ginger. Especially gingerols, which are the major components of ginger, are known to improve diabetes including the effect of enhancement against insulin-sensitivity. Aldose reductase inhibitors have considerable potential for the treatment of diabetes, without increased risk of hypoglycemia. The assay for aldose reductase inhibitors in ginger led to the isolation of five active compounds including 2-(4-hydroxy-3-methoxyphenyl)ethanol (2) and 2-(4-hydroxy-3-methoxyphenyl)ethanoic acid (3). Compounds 2 and 3 were good inhibitors of recombinant human aldose reductase, with IC50 values of 19.2 ± 1.9 and 18.5 ± 1.1 μM, respectively. Furthermore, these compounds significantly suppressed not only sorbitol accumulation in human erythrocytes but also lens galactitol accumulation in 30% of galactose-fed cataract rat model. A structure−activity relationship study revealed that the applicable side alkyl chain length and the presence of a C3 OCH3 group in the aromatic ring are essential features for enzyme recognition and binding. These results suggested that it would contribute to the protection against or improvement of diabetic complications for a dietary supplement of ginger or its extract containing aldose reductase inhibitors.
Article
Antioxidants minimize oxidation of the lipid components in foods. There is an increasing interest in the use of natural and/or synthetic antioxidants in food preservation, but it is important to evaluate such compounds fully for both antioxidant and pro-oxidant properties. The properties of thymol, carvacrol, 6-gingerol, hydroxytyrosol and zingerone were characterized in detail. Thymol, carvacrol, 6-gingerol and hydroxytyrosol decreased peroxidation of phospholipid liposomes in the presence of iron(III) and ascorbate, but zingerone had only a weak inhibitory effect on the system. The compounds were good scavengers of peroxyl radicals (CCl3O2; calculated rate constants > 106m−1 sec−1) generated by pulse radiolysis. Thymol, carvacrol, 6-gingerol and zingerone were not able to accelerate DNA damage in the bleomycin-Fe(III) system. Hydroxytyrosol promoted deoxyribose damage in the deoxyribose assay and also promoted DNA damage in the bleomycin-Fe(III) system. This promotion was inhibited strongly in the deoxyribose assay by the addition of bovine serum albumin to the reaction mixtures. Our data suggest that thymol, carvacrol and 6-gingerol possess useful antioxidant properties and may become important in the search for ‘natural’ replacements for ‘synthetic’ antioxidant food additives.
Article
Despite the widespread use of 5-HT3 receptor antagonist antiemetics such as ondansetron and granistron, up to 70% of patients with cancer receiving highly emetogenic chemotherapy agents experience postchemotherapy nausea and vomiting. Delayed postchemotherapy nausea (nausea that occurs >/= 24 hours after chemotherapy administration) and anticipatory nausea (nausea that develops before chemotherapy administration, in anticipation of it) are poorly controlled by currently available antiemetic agents. Scientific studies suggest that ginger (Zingiber officinale) might have beneficial effects on nausea and vomiting associated with motion sickness, surgery, and pregnancy. In 2 small studies of patients with cancer receiving chemotherapy, addition of ginger to standard antiemetic medication further reduced the severity of postchemotherapy nausea. This article describes a phase II/III randomized, dose-finding, placebo-controlled, double-blind clinical trial to assess the efficacy of ginger for nausea associated with chemotherapy for cancer. The study is currently being conducted by private practice oncology groups that are funded by the National Cancer Institute's Community Clinical Oncology Program and affiliated with the University of Rochester Cancer Center Community Clinical Oncology Program Research Base.
Article
Alternative medicine is used extensively by patients with chronic pain due to e.g., osteoarthritis. Only few of these drugs have be tested in a controlled setting and the present study was undertaken to examine the effect of ginger extract, one of the most popular herbal medications. Ginger extract was compared to placebo and Ibuprofen in patients with osteoarthritis of the hip or knee in a controlled, double blind, double dummy, cross-over study with a wash-out period of one week followed by three treatment periods in a randomized sequence, each of three weeks duration. Acetaminophen was used as rescue medication throughout the study. The study was conducted in accordance with Good Clinical Practice (European Guideline for GCP). A ranking of efficacy of the three treatment periods: Ibuprofen>ginger extract>placebo was found for visual analogue scale of pain (Friedman test: 24.65, P< 0.00001) and the Lequesne-index (Friedman test: 20.76, P< 0.00005). In the cross-over study, no significant difference between placebo and ginger extract could be demonstrated (Siegel-Castellan test), while explorative tests of differences in the first treatment period showed a better effect of both Ibuprofen and ginger extract than placebo (Chi-square, P< 0.05). There were no serious adverse events reported during the periods with active medications. In the present study a statistically significant effect of ginger extract could only be demonstrated by explorative statistical methods in the first period of treatment before cross-over, while a significant difference was not observed in the study as a whole.
Article
Ginger, the rhizomes of Zingiber officinale Roscoe (Zingiberaceae), has widely been used as a spice and condiment in different societies. Besides its food-additive functions, ginger has a long history of medicinal use for the treatment of a variety of human ailments including common colds, fever, rheumatic disorders, gastrointestinal complications, motion sickness, diabetes, cancer, etc. Ginger contains several nonvolatile pungent principles viz. gingerols, shogaols, paradols and zingerone, which account for many of its health beneficial effects. Studies conducted in cultured cells as well as in experimental animals revealed that these pungent phenolics possess anticarcinogenic properties. This chapter summarizes updated information on chemopreventive and chemotherapeutic effects of ginger-derived phenolic substances and their underlying mechanisms.
Article
Ginger (Zingiber officinale Roscoe, Zingiberacae) is one of the most commonly used spices around the world and a traditional medicinal plant that has been widely used in Chinese, Ayurvedic and Unani-Tibb medicines for several thousand years. However, there was still lack of systemic safety evaluation. We conducted a 35-day toxicity study on ginger in rats. Both male and female rats were daily treated with ginger powder at the dosages of 500, 1000 and 2000 mg/kg body weight by a gavage method for 35 days. The results demonstrated that this chronic administration of ginger was not associated with any mortalities and abnormalities in general conditions, behavior, growth, and food and water consumption. Except for dose-related decrease in serum lactate dehydrogenase activity in males, ginger treatment induced similar hematological and blood biochemical parameters to those of controlled animals. In general, ginger treatment caused no overt organ abnormality. Only at a very high dose (2000 mg/kg), ginger led to slightly reduced absolute and relative weights of testes (by 14.4% and 11.5%, respectively). This study provides a new understanding of the toxicological properties of ginger.
Article
Magnolia bark and ginger rhizome is a drug pair in many prescriptions for treatment of mental disorders in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM). However, compatibility and synergism mechanism of two herbs on antidepressant actions have not been reported. The aim of this study was to approach the rationale of the drug pair in TCM. We evaluated antidepressant-like effects of mixture of honokiol and magnolol (HMM), polysaccharides (PMB) from magnolia bark, essential oil (OGR) and polysaccharides (PGR) from ginger rhizome alone, and the possibility of synergistic interactions in their combinations in the mouse forced swimming test (FST) and tail suspension test (TST). Serotonin (5-HT) and noradrenaline (NE) levels in prefrontal cortex, hippocampus and striatum were also examined. 30 mg/kg HMM decreased immobility in the FST and TST in mice after one- and two-week treatment. OGR (19.5 or 39 mg/kg) alone was ineffective. The combination of an ineffective dose of 39 mg/kg OGR with 15 mg/kg HMM was the most effective and produced a synergistic action on behaviors after two-week treatment. Significant increase in 5-HT and synergistic increase in NE in prefrontal cortex were observed after co-administration of HMM with OGR. These results demonstrated that HMM was the principal component of this drug pair, whereas OGR served as adjuvant fraction. Compatibility of HMM with OGR was suggested to exert synergistic antidepressant actions by attenuating abnormalities in serotonergic and noradrenergic system functions. Therefore, we confirmed the rationality of drug pair in clinical application and provided a novel perspective in drug pair of TCM researches.
Article
Vomiting in pregnancy is a very common phenomenon, though not well understood. The extreme form, hyperemesis gravidarum can lead to severe complications. Articles published in the last decade in this field were searched and studied. Various aetiological factors were identified, the recent ones being the association of Helicobacter. pylori with hyperemesis, as well as the presence of cell free fetal DNA. The management of the condition involves symptomatic treatment along with antiemetic, pyridoxine and thiamine. Important role of alternative therapies like ginger and P6 acupoint stimulation in the treatment of hyperemesis has been identified.
Article
Excessive production of inflammatory mediators such as nitric oxide (NO), prostaglandin E(2) (PGE2), and proinflammatory cytokines, including tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha) and interleukin-1beta (IL-1beta) from activated microglia contributes to uncontrolled inflammation in neurodegenerative diseases. It seems possible that treatment with anti-inflammatory agents, including plants used in Oriental medicine, might delay the progression of neurodegeneration through the inhibition of microglial activation. The present study is focused on the inhibitory effect of the rhizome hexane fraction extract of Zingiber officinale Roscoe (ginger hexan extract; GHE) on the production of inflammatory mediators such as NO, PGE(2), and proinflammatory cytokines in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated BV-2 cells, a mouse microglial cell line. GHE significantly inhibited the excessive production of NO, PGE(2), TNF-alpha, and IL-1beta in LPS-stimulated BV2 cells. In addition, GHE attenuated the mRNA expressions and protein levels of inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS), cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2), and proinflammatory cytokines. The molecular mechanisms that underlie GHE-mediated attenuation are related to the inhibition of the phosphorylation of three mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs), extracellular signal-regulated kinases 1 and 2 (ERK1/2), p38 MAPK, and c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK), and the activation of nuclear factor-kappaB (NF-kappaB). Our results indicate that GHE exhibits anti-inflammatory properties by suppressing the transcription of inflammatory mediator genes through the MAPK and NF-kappaB signaling pathways. The anti-inflammatory properties of GHE may make it useful as a therapeutic candidate for the treatment of human neurodegenerative diseases.
Article
To compare the effects of ginger, mefenamic acid, and ibuprofen on pain in women with primary dysmenorrhea. This was a double-blind comparative clinical trial conducted from September 2006 to February 2007. Participants were 150 students (18 years old and over) with primary dysmenorrhea from the dormitories of two medical universities who were alternately divided into three equal groups. Students in the ginger group took 250 mg capsules of ginger rhizome powder four times a day for three days from the start of their menstrual period. Members of the other groups received 250 mg mefenamic acid or 400 mg ibuprofen capsules, respectively, on the same protocol. A verbal multidimensional scoring system was used for assessing the severity of primary dysmenorrhea. Severity of disease, pain relief, and satisfaction with the treatment were compared between the groups after one menstruation. There were not significant differences between groups in baseline characteristics, p > 0.05. At the end of treatment, severity of dysmenorrhea decreased in all groups and no differences were found between the groups in severity of dysmenorrhea, pain relief, or satisfaction with the treatment, p > 0.05. No severe side effects occurred. Ginger was as effective as mefenamic acid and ibuprofen in relieving pain in women with primary dysmenorrhea. Further studies regarding the effects of ginger on other symptoms associated with dysmenorrhea and efficacy and safety of various doses and treatment durations of ginger are warranted.
Article
Ginger (Zingiber officinale) supplements are being promoted for arthritis treatment in western societies on the basis of ginger's traditional use as an anti-inflammatory in Chinese and Ayurvedic medicine. However, scientific evidence of ginger's antiarthritic effects is sparse, and its bioactive joint-protective components have not been identified. Therefore, the ability of a well-characterized crude ginger extract to inhibit joint swelling in an animal model of rheumatoid arthritis, streptococcal cell wall-induced arthritis, was compared to that of a fraction containing only gingerols and their derivatives. Both extracts were efficacious in preventing joint inflammation. However, the crude dichloromethane extract, which also contained essential oils and more polar compounds, was more efficacious (when normalized to gingerol content) in preventing both joint inflammation and destruction. In conclusion, these data document a very significant joint-protective effect of these ginger samples and suggest that nongingerol components are bioactive and can enhance the antiarthritic effects of the more widely studied gingerols.
Article
A rapid high-performance liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (HPLC-MS) method was developed and validated for simultaneous quantification of 6-gingerol, 8-gingerol, 10-gingerol and 6-shogaol in rat plasma after oral administration of ginger oleoresin. Plasma samples extracted with a liquid-liquid extraction procedure were separated on an Agilent Zorbax StableBond-C(18) column (4.6 mm x 50 mm, 1.8 microm) and detected by MS with electrospray ionization interface in positive selective ion monitoring (SIM) mode. Calibration curves (1/x(2) weighted) offered satisfactory linearity (r(2)>0.995) in a wide linear range (0.0104-13.0 microg/mL for 6-gingerol, 0.00357-4.46 microg/mL for 8-gingerol, 0.00920-11.5 microg/mL for 10-gingerol and 0.00738-9.22 microg/mL for 6-shogaol). The lower limit of quantification (LLOQ) was in a range of 3.57-10.4 ng/mL. The analytes and internal standard can be baseline separated within 6 min. Inter- and intra-day assay variation was less than 15%. This developed method was successfully applied to pharmacokinetic studies of ginger oleoresin after oral administration to rats. Glucuronide of 6-gingerol was determined after beta-glucuronidase hydrolysis for more information, and the intestinal glucuronidation was further confirmed by comparison of plasma samples of hepatic portal vein and femoral vein.
Article
Receptor activator of nuclear factor-kappaB (NF-kappaB) ligand (RANKL) has emerged as a major mediator of bone resorption, commonly associated with cancer and other chronic inflammatory diseases. Inhibitors of RANKL signaling thus have potential in preventing bone loss. In the present report, the potential of zerumbone, a sesquiterpene derived from subtropical ginger, to modulate osteoclastogenesis induced by RANKL and breast cancer was examined. We found that zerumbone inhibited RANKL-induced NF-kappaB activation in mouse monocyte, an osteoclast precursor cell, through inhibition of activation of IkappaBalpha kinase, IkappaBalpha phosphorylation, and IkappaBalpha degradation. Zerumbone also suppressed RANKL-induced differentiation of these cells to osteoclasts. This sesquiterpene also inhibited the osteoclast formation induced by human breast tumor cells and by multiple myeloma cells. Finally, we examined whether zerumbone could prevent human breast cancer-induced bone loss in animals. We found that zerumbone decreased osteolysis in a dose-dependent manner in MDA-MB-231 breast cancer tumor-bearing athymic nude mice. These results indicate that zerumbone is an effective blocker of RANKL-induced NF-kappaB activation and of osteoclastogenesis induced by RANKL and tumor cells, suggesting its potential as a therapeutic agent for osteoporosis and cancer-associated bone loss.
Article
Patients with chronic, painful diseases often seek alternative therapy. The purpose of this study was to investigate the potential of hydroalcoholic extract of Zingiber officinale rhizomes (Z. officinale extract) to ameliorate inflammatory process in rat collagen-induced arthritis. Our results show that Z. officinale extract in doses higher than 50 mg/kg/day intraperitoneally starting from the dose of booster immunization and for 26 days can ameliorate the clinical scores, disease incidence, joint temperature and swelling, and cartilage destruction, together with reduction of serum levels of interleukin (IL)-1beta, IL-2, IL-6, tumour necrosis factor-alpha, and anti-CII antibodies. Moreover, Z. officinale extract at the dose of 200 mg/kg/day was superior to 2 mg/kg/day of indomethacin at most of the measured parameters. These observations might make Z. officinale extract a good alternative to non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs for patients with rheumatoid arthritis.
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To evaluate the pharmacokinetics and adverse effects of medicinal herbs, as well as clinical evidence of herb-drug interactions. Electronic searches were conducted in multiple databases, including MEDLINE, EMBASE, the Cochrane Library, CINAHL, NAPRALERT, International Pharmaceutical Abstracts, CANCERLIT, CISCOM, and HerbMed. Search terms used included common names, scientific names, and synonyms for the herbs and their primary active constituents. Bibliographies of relevant articles were also searched by hand to obtain additional references. No restrictions were placed on language or quality of publications. All literature collected pertained to adverse effects, pharmacokinetics, and suspected or confirmed cases of herb-drug interactions. Over 80 herbs or botanicals (including plants, fungi, algae, and common constituents) were identified that had clinically significant interactions with prescription and over-the-counter drugs. Interestingly, herbs beginning with the letter "g" (garlic, ginger, ginkgo, and grapefruit) were among the herbs most commonly involved in herb-drug interactions. Drugs with anticoagulant/antiplatelet activity (e.g. warfarin, aspirin) were frequently implicated in herb-drug interactions, with documented interactions with over 30 herbs and herbal products. Because many herbs have demonstrated adverse effects on the liver, the potential for interaction with hepatotoxic agents (such as acetaminophen) is also significant. Clinical outcomes of reported herb-drug interactions ranged from mild to severe. Of note, fatalities (though rare) have occurred with concomitant ephedra and caffeine use. As herbal products (and dietary supplements in general) continue to grow in popularity, patients and health care providers should be vigilant of potential herb-drug interactions.
Article
[6]-Gingerol is one of the pungent components in ginger which has been found to possess various pharmacological effects. However, there is insufficient information on the properties of [6]-gingerol based on controlled pharmacokinetic studies. The aim of this study was to clarify distribution profiles of [6]-gingerol in blood and biological tissues of experimental rats. Rats were administered a 240 mg/kg dose of Gs (a ginger extract, containing 53% [6]-gingerol) by oral ingestion. Plasma samples were collected at 2.5, 5, 7.5, 10, 15, 20, 30, 45 min, and 1, 1.5, 2, 3, 4 h after dosing (eight samples per time point), and brain, heart, lung, spleen, liver, kidney, stomach and small intestine tissues were collected at 5, 15, 30 min and 1, 2, 4 h after dosing (five animals per time point). Samples were prepared by a liquid-liquid extraction procedure and the extracts were assayed by HPLC-UV. After per oral application, [6]-gingerol was absorbed rapidly into the plasma, and the maximal concentration (4.23 microg/ml) was reached after 10 min post dosing. [6]-Gingerol plasma concentrations declined with time in a biexponential pattern. The elimination half-time at the terminal phase was 1.77 h and the apparent total body clearance was 40.8 l/h. When administered orally, [6]-gingerol was well distributed to the tissues examined, with the highest concentrations found in the gastrointestinal tract. Maximal concentrations of [6]-gingerol were reached in most tissues at 0.5 h post-dosing. The concentrations of [6]-gingerol in tissues all were higher than in plasma with corresponding tissue to plasma ratios greater than 1 after 0.25 h post-dose, showing high tissue partitioning and extensive distribution.
Article
This study was designed to test whether Alpinia pricei (AP), a member of the ginger family indigenous to Taiwan, reduced metabolic syndrome induced by sucrose-containing drinking water in C57BL/6J mice. Mice given a chow diet were divided into a control group (C) or a test group given 30% sucrose water (SW) to drink ad libitum. After 22 weeks, mice in the SW group were subdivided into SW and SW + AP groups, the latter receiving a chow diet with an ethanol extract of AP (1500 mg/kg dosage). Four weeks later, bio-indexes associated with metabolic syndrome were measured. Compared with the C group, the SW group had significantly higher body weight, visceral fat weights, serum and tissue lipid, serum insulin level and the area under the curve for blood glucose of the insulin tolerance test (p < 0.05). These indicators in the SW + AP group were lower than in the SW group except for serum lipid, although slightly higher than the C group. The SW + AP group also showed significantly lower serum levels of leptin and tumor necrosis factor-alpha and a significantly higher level of adiponectin than the SW group. These results indicated that visceral adiposity and insulin resistance induced by sucrose water drinking might be alleviated by AP supplementation.
Article
Zerumbone (ZER), present in subtropical ginger Zingiber zerumbet Smith, possesses anti-growth and anti-inflammatory properties in several human cancer cell lines. ZER also down-regulates the cyclooxygenase-2 and inducible nitric oxide synthase expression via modulation of nuclear factor (NF)-kappaB activation in cell culture systems. These findings led us to investigate whether ZER is able to inhibit carcinogenesis in the colon and lung, using 2 different preclinical mouse models. In Exp. 1, a total of 85 male ICR mice were initiated using a single intraperitoneal (i.p.) injection with azoxymethane (AOM, 10 mg/kg bw) and promoted by 1.5% dextran sulfate sodium (DSS) in drinking water for 7 days for rapid induction of colonic neoplasms. Animals were then fed the diet containing 100, 250 or 500 ppm ZER for 17 weeks. In Exp. 2, a total of 50 female A/J mice were given a single i.p. injection of 4-(methylnitrosamino)-1-(3-pyridyl)-1-butanone (10 micromol/mouse) to induce lung proliferative lesions. They were then fed the diet mixed with 100, 250 or 500 ppm ZER for 21 weeks. At the termination of the experiments (wk 20 of Exp. 1 and wk 22 of Exp. 2), all animals were subjected to complete necropsy examination to determine the pathological lesions in both tissues. Oral administration of ZER at 100, 250 and 500 ppm significantly inhibited the multiplicity of colonic adenocarcinomas. The treatment also suppressed colonic inflammation. In the lung carcinogenesis, ZER feeding at 250 and 500 ppm significantly inhibited the multiplicity of lung adenomas in a dose-dependent manner. Feeding with ZER resulted in inhibition of proliferation, induction of apoptosis, and suppression of NFkappaB and heme oxygenase (HO)-1 expression in tumors developed in both tissues. Our findings suggest that dietary administration of ZER effectively suppresses mouse colon and lung carcinogenesis through multiple modulatory mechanisms of growth, apoptosis, inflammation and expression of NFkappaB and HO-1 that are involved in carcinogenesis in the colon and lung.
Article
In the present study, the antifungal activity of selected essential oils obtained from plants used as spices was evaluated against both fluconazole-resistant and fluconazole-susceptible Candida spp. The Candida species studied were Candida albicans, Candida dubliniensis, Candida tropicalis, Candida glabrata, and Candida krusei. For comparison purposes, they were arranged in groups as C. albicans, C. dubliniensis, and Candida non-albicans. The essential oils were obtained from Cinnamomum zeylanicum Breyn, Lippia graveolens HBK, Ocimum basilicum L., Origanum vulgare L., Rosmarinus officinalis L., Salvia officinalis L., Thymus vulgaris L., and Zingiber officinale. The susceptibility tests were based on the M27-A2 methodology. The chemical composition of the essential oils was obtained by gas chromatography-mass spectroscopy and by retention indices. The results showed that cinnamon, Mexican oregano, oregano, thyme, and ginger essential oils have different levels of antifungal activity. Oregano and ginger essential oils were found to be the most and the least efficient, respectively. The main finding was that the susceptibilities of fluconazole-resistant C. albicans, C. dubliniensis, and Candida non-albicans to Mexican oregano, oregano, thyme, and ginger essential oils were higher than those of the fluconazole-susceptible yeasts (P<0.05). In contrast, fluconazole-resistant C. albicans and Candida non-albicans were less susceptible to cinnamon essential oil than their fluconazole-susceptible counterparts (P<0.05). A relationship between the yeasts' susceptibilities and the chemical composition of the essential oils studied was apparent when these 2 parameters were compared. Finally, basil, rosemary, and sage essential oils did not show antifungal activity against Candida isolates at the tested concentrations.