The plant is native to Southeast Asia and is cultivated in the United States, India, China, and in tropical regions. The part used is the rhizome of the plant. Compounds: volatile oils, aryl alkanes, gingerol, gingeron, shogaols (give flavor and smell to ginger), diarylheptanoids, starch. Ginger is traditionally used in case of nausea, dizziness, dyspepsia. The studies carried out relate it to a large number of physiological effects related to the principles present in the ginger rhizome: anti-inflammatory, antiemetic, antimicrobial, antioxidant and cardiotonic effect. Antiemetic effect: the antiemetic effect is attributed to the gingerols and shogaols present in the ginger rhizome. Its effect is believed to be due to local gastrointestinal actions: ginger stimulates the secretion of saliva, bile and gastric secretions, suppresses gastric contractions, increases intestinal muscle tone and increases peristalsis. Some compounds in ginger such as galano lactones could be responsible for the action. Anti-inflammatory: it is considered to be due to the inhibition of cyclooxygenase and 5-lipoxygenase, reducing the synthesis of leukotrienes and prostaglandins. Gingerol has demonstrated anti-inflammatory activity. Regulation of lipid levels: significantly improves plasma fat levels and reduces the level of atherosclerosis, in studies carried out with albino rabbits. Antimicrobial: studies have shown its effectiveness against B. subtilis and E. coli in vitro. In addition to possible antiviral and antiparasitic action. Antithrombotic: reduces the production of thromboxane A2 and inhibits platelet aggregation. Cardiotonic effect: gingerols and shogaols from ginger have a positive impact on cells isolated from guinea pigs. Immune system: in the presence of Ginger there is an increase in the secretion of interleukin 1, beta, interleukin -6 and macrophages. Antioxidant, anti-migraine effect (due to its anti-inflammatory action): it has a powerful antioxidant activity.
