Medicinal properties of Ginger (Zingiber officinale Rosc.)

Abstract

The medicinal plants find application in pharmaceutical, cosmetic, agricultural and food industry. The efficacy of some herbal products is beyond doubt, the most recent examples being <b><i>Silybum marianum</i> (Linn.) Gaertn</b> (silymarin), <b><i>Artemisia annua</i> Linn.</b> (artemesinin) and <b><i>Taxus baccata</i> Linn.</b> (taxol). Randomized, controlled trials have provedthe efficacy of some established remedies, for instance Zingiber officinale Rosc. commonly known as ginger. After extensive pharmacological studies, it has been concluded that ginger has significant anti inflammatory, anti-emetic and chemo-protective effects. The article summarises various scientific studies and tries to analyze the current status of research in the pharmacological activities of ginger.