Ginger is an herb whose rhizome or root is commonly used for flavoring, as a food product, herbal supplement and as medicine. Its medicinal properties have made it widely popular for treating various stomach complications, but its benefits can extend to pain relief from arthritis, muscle soreness and joint pain. Certain chemical constituents in ginger allow for it to be a reliable and effective anti-inflammatory that is often recognized as the foundations for gout relief and prevention.
The active ingredients that give ginger its flavorful and pungent character have been recognized to help reduce the symptoms of gout. These active ingredients provide natural anti-inflammatory activity that helps reduce the pain, swelling and discomfort caused by monosodium urate crystals. By maintaining vigilant suppression over monosodium urate crystal induced inflammation, ginger can simultaneously provide relief from gout flare ups and decrease your likelihood of a future attack.
A study conducted on rats in 2013 at the Immunopathology Lab in VITT University found that when rats who acquired gouty arthritis were treated with a herbal compound whose main active ingredients was ginger, they observed the active suppressions of inflammation caused by monosodium urate crystals. The anti-inflammatory effects against have allowed confirmation of a ginger herbal compound as a viable treatment option for gout. Another study performed in 2009 observed the effects of 6-Shogoal (an isolated chemical constituent from ginger) on monosodium urate crystal induced inflammation in mice. The study found that 6-shogoal exerted strong anti-inflammatory effects that proved useful for the continued treatment and prevention of gouty arthritis.
Ginger can be found in foods and beverages as a flavoring agent, spice or enhancer. It is available as a whole fresh root, crystalized ginger or powder. Its popularity has a medicinal herb has allowed it wide availability as a drug supplement as well in the form of powdered ginger extracts or alcohol extracts. It can also be sourced in small concentrations in tea products, or you can make your own ginger tea but boiling a whole fresh root in water.
The best type of supplement to consider is a capsule product as it ensures you receive proper dosage. Additionally, powdered ginger is easier to combine into other herbal combinations, which can increase the efficacy of the ginger product. It’s recommended to stay away from chewables as they have a tendency to be high in sugar.
To start using ginger for gout relief and prevention you can slowly introduce the herb into your diet by adding it with your foods or boiling a whole root to make ginger tea. When consuming ginger in a powder extract form or in capsules, for effective anti-inflammatory relief about 1 to 2 grams a day is the recommended amount. For extended use, refer to the directions on the package of your product or as directed by a health care provider.
In small doses, ginger has few side effects that include nausea, stomach discomfort, diarrhea and heartburn. Ginger use during pregnancy is controversial and avoiding use is highly recommended as the effects of ginger and pregnancy are not fully known. Similarly, not enough is known about the safety of taking ginger during breastfeeding and it is recommended it should be avoided as well. Consult with a doctor or health care provider if you have the following conditions: gallstones, diabetes, heart problems, bleeding or blood clotting disorder or are taking other herbs before you take ginger.
While ginger is safe, it can possible cause allergic reactions in some individuals. If you experience rash development, swelling of the lips, mouth, throat or tongue, or intense pain or discomfort, discontinue use of the product and contact your doctor immediately. Ginger may also cause gas, an upset stomach, mouth irritation and heartburn. Ginger may increase your risk of bleeding or worsen heart conditions. If you suffer from related conditions, do not take ginger before consulting with your doctor. Finally, ginger may lower your blood sugar, discuss with your doctor the options you have before taking ginger if you have diabetes.
Ginger has minor or moderate interactions with the following medications:
Please refer to our gout supplements page.
Ginger contains active ingredients that have been shown to reduce or prevent monosodium urate crystal induced inflammation.
Ginger paste is commonly used for burns or skin irritations due to its anti-inflammatory effect. Evidence toward ginger paste helping with gout related pain are purely anecdotal. The most effective way to use ginger for gout relief and prevention is through oral consumption.
The best way to receive an effective concentration of ginger’s active ingredients is by boiling the whole root (sliced). You can make ginger tea by slicing a whole ginger root and boiling it in water for 10 to 20 minutes. You can add a little honey or lemon for added flavoring and can allow the tea to cool for a chilled version of this beverage.
Ginger ale typically has high amounts of sugar in it that can contribute to an unhealthy internal environment that can contribute to the increase of uric acid in the blood.
Beer is a high purine beverage that can contribute to increase uric acid levels and aggravate or exacerbate gout.
Ginger root contains active ingredients with anti-inflammatory effects that can help reduce the pain and inflammation from gout as well as treat acute gout to prevent future attacks.
Ginger and garlic are great flavoring agents for your meals.
Ginger biscuits have a tendency to be high in sugar. Sugar can contribute to an unhealthy internal environment that can contribute to the increase of uric acid in the blood.
A ginger foot bath can be beneficial for temporary pain relief, however the most effective way to use ginger for gout relief and prevention is through oral consumption.
Ginger juice can have a tendency to be high in sugar. Sugar can contribute to an unhealthy internal environment that can contribute to the increase of uric acid in the blood. As an alternative, you can make ginger tea by slicing a whole ginger root and boiling it in water for 10 to 20 minutes. You can add a little honey or lemon for added flavoring and can allow the tea to cool for a chilled version of this beverage.
Ginger oil is typically use for environmental relaxation purposes or as a way to relieve gas. Some individuals have use it to help with pain relief from joint pain, however the best way to receive ginger’s full benefits is through oral consumption of the powder extract.
Ginger wine may have a tendency to be high in sugar. Sugar can contribute to an unhealthy internal environment that can contribute to the increase of uric acid in the blood.
For ginger paste, you will need 1 ½ cups of fresh ginger (unpeeled). Place the ginger in a blender or food processor and blend on the highest setting until a paste consistency develops. Freeze solid to store for later use.
Ginger can be eaten fresh, dried or pickled and still provide the same anti-inflammatory benefits for gout.
The most effective way to use ginger for gout relief and prevention is through oral consumption in the form of a capsule or pill.