Why Ginger Is Not Beneficial for Everyone: Insights from Traditional Chinese Medicine

Wait, what? Ginger may not be beneficial for everyone. Yup, not only that, but it can cause unwanted side effects when not used properly! How? Read on…

Ginger is widely celebrated for its numerous health benefits. Sheng Jiang (生姜), or fresh ginger, is valued in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) for its various health benefits. Here are some benefits: digestive aid, warming properties, anti-inflammatory effects, circulatory support, immune support, menstrual relief, respiratory health, and nausea relief.

However, in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), fresh ginger is not considered a universal remedy. Understanding the nuances of TCM can help explain why fresh ginger may not benefit everyone.

Contraindications:

1. Yin Deficiency with Heat Signs: Sheng Jiang is warming and can aggravate conditions with yin deficiency, where there are signs of internal heat (i.e., night sweats, dry mouth, red tongue).

2. Heat in the Blood: Fresh ginger can exacerbate conditions like nosebleeds or bleeding due to heat in the blood.

3. Stomach Fire: In cases of excessive stomach heat or fire, ginger may further irritate the digestive system, leading to symptoms like acid reflux or heartburn.

4. Heat Conditions: Sheng Jiang may worsen heat-based conditions like fever or hyperactivity of yang energy.

Cautions:

1. Pregnancy: While ginger is sometimes used for nausea during pregnancy, excessive use should be avoided as it may increase body heat.

2. Bleeding Disorders: Since ginger has a mild blood-moving property, it should be used cautiously in individuals with bleeding disorders or those on anticoagulant medication.

3. Large Doses: Overconsumption of Sheng Jiang can lead to side effects such as dry mouth, thirst, or gastrointestinal tract irritation.

Conclusion

While ginger is a powerful herb with many benefits, it’s important to account for individual health conditions, constitutional imbalances, and needs. That being said it is highly recommended to consult with a licensed TCM practitioner or healthcare provider before taking ginger.

Restorative Care Acupuncture & Health has an amazing success rate when treating many health problems using acupuncture, Chinese herbal medicine, and dietary modification consults. If you or someone you know needs the amazing benefits of Chinese medicine, make them “aware” there is help. Contact us today to book an appointment and we will let you know what we can do for you. We strive to be the best acupuncture clinic in Miami.