Ginger- A Potential Source of Therapeutic and Pharmaceutical Compounds

Abstract

Ginger is traditionally known for its therapeutic and pharmaceutical properties. It has been used widely to treat various health problems such as high blood pressure, coughs, colds, swelling, nausea, rheumatic disorders, vomiting, bronchitis, indigestion, gastric ulcers, and behavioral problems. Shogaol and Gingerol are anti-inflammatory, anti-fever, anti-pain, and anti-cough compounds that may help treat a cold. This review provides an up-to-date understanding of the impact of ginger and its active compounds on human health. Various ginger compounds such as gingerol, shogaols, zingiberene, zingerone, paradols and zingerone are receiving attention for their clinical applications and pharmaceutical properties. Studies indicate that ginger is anti-inflammatory, anti-tumor, antimicrobial, antiemetic, hepatoprotective, and neuroprotective. During the inflammatory response, ginger inhibits (NF-κB) and immune system activation in addition to many other cellular processes. Ginger has shown benefits in preclinical and clinical studies for neurology, cardiovascular disease, and cancer. These findings indicate the necessity for further in vivo and clinical studies.