Ginger oil has a varied and interesting history. It was used in a variety of countries dating back almost 4,000 years. The Greeks used it for its digestive properties while Egyptians used it for what they thought to be epidemics. The Romans used it as an aphrodisiac while India and China used it (and still do) for the digestive qualities as the Greeks did many centuries ago.
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Medicinal Uses
Digestive Disorders
Ginger oil can be used to help a variety of digestive issues such as:
- Motion sickness
- Nausea (e.g. morning sickness and seasickness)
- Stomach cramps
- Loss of appetite
It can also help with indigestion. Simply add a drop of the oil to some tea and it can help alleviate this condition when you eat something that just does not agree with you.
Arthritic Pain
It has been shown in some research to help lessen the pain associated with arthritis although there is still more research that needs to be done.
Migraine Headaches
Again, this has been studied but in combination with other herbal remedies such as feverfew and it is not clear if the combination is what helps or if it is the individual herbs themselves.
Flu
There is some evidence that ginger oil may help lessen flu symptoms if taken in a tea or other put in other liquid and given to the person who is ill.
Scientific Research
There have been a few studies with regards to the medicinal benefits of ginger and ginger oil. Here are a few of those studies. I encourage you to look at them and decide if this is an oil you would like to either use or continue using in your life. Personally, I recommend it highly for its digestive assisting qualities alone.
- This article talks about the specific properties of ginger and how they relate to medical use.
- This article talks about the use of ginger for the prevention of postoperative nausea and vomiting.
- This article talks about the effects of a ginger extract on knee pain in patients with osteoarthritis.
- This article is a good overview resource about ginger and its medicinal uses.
Other Uses of Ginger Oil
In addition to the uses listed above, there is a myriad of other potential uses for this great oil. Some of them include the following.
Congestion: ginger oil is thought to be an effective expectorant when dealing with mucus buildup in the body.- Cough: ginger oil may help to curb coughs during cold and flu season. Adding it to some honey can lessen the strong taste of the oil when taken in this fashion.
- Sexual dysfunction: some studies have shown that it may help in reversing impotence when needed. The jury is still out on this one.
- Diarrhea: The oil may help to reduce bowel motions and potentially stop the embarrassing problem.
- Fever: The oil may help to reduce fever.
Cautions
While ginger oil is generally regarded as safe (GRAS), it is a warm oil and should always be diluted. The reason for this is because it does have a strong taste which may be too much for some, including children. In fact, it is recommended not to give the oil to children under the age of 2. If you are taking blood thinners are have a bleeding disorder, you should not take it unless instructed by a doctor.
In addition to the above-listed cautions, if you have low blood pressure or irregular heartbeat, it is to your benefit to not take this oil internally at the least. As always, check with your doctor before adding this oil to your health regimen. As I said, it is GRAS but things can happen as each body is different. It is important that you are safe.
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A Final Note
Ginger essential oil has a great variety of benefits. I use the oil for many different things, including a food additive when I am out of the actual root. Just a small drop will do the trick. When I think about all the great ways to use ginger oil I smile.
I have used this oil primarily for its digestive qualities but also believe in using it as part of a whole health approach to my overall wellness. My advice is to give this oil a try for just a few of its uses. I am sure you will find it a great help to you!
Additional References
- Worwood, Valerie Ann. “The Complete Book of Essential Oils and Aromatherapy”
- Devereux, Charla. “Aromatherapy: Essential Oils and How to Use Them”
- Higley, Alan & Connie. “Reference Guide to Essential Oils” 14th Edition Copyright 2013 Abundant Health Inc
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