Ginger is a very popular herb, but did you know that it is a very effective pain blocker and antimicrobial? Since ancient times, ginger has been used for relief of dysmenorrhea, muscle soreness, and osteoarthritis and has been studied extensively in the literature. Its main component, gingerol, acts on very important pain receptors in nerve endings to help reduce pain. This study found that ginger is as effective as ibuprofen in post surgical pain.

Using fresh ginger

• Slice ¼ cup fresh ginger into ¼ inch rounds
• Simmer in 2 cups of water for 20 minutes (longer simmer time has been shown to increase the spiciness)
• Add 2 tsp of honey to sweeten and soothe
• Let cool before use
• If your ulcer is in the back of your throat, you can drink this solution

Using ginger powder

• Add 1-2 tsp of ginger powder to 1 cup of warm water
• Add 2 tsp of honey to sweeten and soothe
• Stir well 

Using ginger oil

• Add 3-5 drops of ginger oil to 1-2 Tbsp of coconut oil or olive oil
• Mix well
• Swish and hold in your mouth for 5-15 minutes to allow the oil to pull away bacteria and allow the ginger to numb the pain

Final Thoughts

Ginger is not only a culinary delight, it is a powerful analgesic and antimicrobial herb. With easy access and few side effects, it can be tried first before resorting to pharmaceutical alternatives.

Sandie Tran, Pharm.D.