Ginger root has anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects. It exhibits NSAID-type activity by inhibiting an inflammatory enzyme, COX-2, and can also be used in the treatment of arthritis. Furthermore, it can be used for the management of headache, nausea, and vomiting. Other than gingerols, ginger has another component, (6)-shogaol, with a chemical structure similar to capsaicin. Ginger also exhibits anti-spasmodic properties, helps improve intestinal muscle tone, is also useful in the prevention of vomiting, and can stimulate bile production.
High doses of ginger (>5g) can trigger ulcer and damage the lining of the stomach.