Ginger's Potential In Managing Arthritis Symptoms

  • Najma Ahmed Bachelor of Science - BSc, Pharmacology, UCL

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Overview

The word “arthritis” refers to a broad category of more than 100 rheumatic illnesses and disorders that impact joints, connective tissues, and tissues that encompass the joints.4 Amongst the various types, osteoarthritis (OA) and rheumatoid arthritis (RA) are most prevalent. Osteoarthritis is well characterised by its joint stiffness and pain due to cartilage degeneration,2 while arthritis can be inflammatory or noninflammatory in its manifestation. Arthritis caused by inflammation can arise from infections or inflammation. Other autoimmune conditions such as systemic lupus erythematosus, Sjogren syndrome, scleroderma, myositis, inflammatory bowel disease, celiac disease, etc., can also coexist with inflammatory arthritis.3 Ginger has long been exploited in traditional medicine for its therapeutic benefit in arthritis and many more conditions and these links will be further discussed in this article. 

Understanding arthritis

Arthritis is a common, complex disease that includes a range of conditions that cause inflammation of different joints in the body.3 Environmental influences can have an impact on individuals who have a genetic susceptibility to develop specific types of arthritis; factors like age, gender, economic status, and cultural background can contribute to the expression of this condition. Due to its chronic nature and impact on quality of life, arthritis has a significant influence on both people and society as a whole. Musculoskeletal conditions, including arthritis, play a significant role in diminishing physical function, influencing mental health, and impacting social well-being.5 Numerous symptoms, such as joint pain, swelling, stiffness, and decreased mobility, are linked to arthritis and can result in both short- and long-term incapacity. In order to develop effective management techniques that address the varied impacts of arthritis on individuals and society as a whole, it is imperative that the various manifestations of the disease be acknowledged.

Arthritis manifests in various forms, each presenting unique characteristics and clinical manifestations. The following are some prevalent types:1

  • Ankylosing spondylitis
  • Gout
  • Juvenile idiopathic arthritis
  • Osteoarthritis
  • Psoriatic arthritis
  • Reactive arthritis
  • Rheumatoid arthritis

How does arthritis make you feel?

Pain and discomfort are two symptoms that frequently accompany arthritis. Joint pain can range from moderate to severe, and differs in its capacity to affect daily activities in different individuals. Frequently, this pain coexists with stiffness, especially after periods of inactivity. This stiffness can significantly impair a person’s ability to use their joints without restriction, making daily tasks more difficult. The affected joints may also appear to look different due to inflammation affecting their composition. Furthermore, chronic pain and the body's immunological response can cause persistent exhaustion, which adds to the fatigue commonly linked to arthritis. This chronic cycle of discomfort, stiffness, and exhaustion can have a severe effect on people, frequently impairing social interaction, productivity at work, and relationships.

The range of symptoms you may experience varies according to the type of arthritis you may have. Here, are some indicative symptoms:6

  • Inflamed joints, most commonly affecting the hips, spine, knees and extremities
  • Stiff movement of the affected joint(s)
  • Weakness
  • Loss of muscle mass

Historical use of ginger as a medicinal plant

In many different ethnic and medical practices, ginger has long been implemented as a traditional medicine to cure a wide range of illnesses, including inflammation, headaches, nausea, colds and conditions affecting the muscles such as arthritis. It is a source of therapeutic relief that continues to hold deep roots in medicinal and culture across different geographical regions.7

The benefits of using ginger in traditional medicine finds reinforcement in scientific studies; health-promoting properties in various aliments have been explored and understood. Such findings, particularly those highlighting its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, have reinforced the long standing uses of ginger in medical practice, demonstrating its promise as an adaptable and successful natural treatment for a variety of medical conditions.8

The role of ginger in managing arthritis

Ginger has garnered a lot of attention for its health-promoting properties and support for the use of ginger comes from a variety of different research. For instance, a pure sample of ginger was tested on its ability to reduce symptoms of arthritis in the knee and this showed some clinical benefit.9 Further findings in patients with osteoarthritis have concluded that ginger can be used as part of a holistic regimen in order to control symptoms.10

Ginger and its particular components have characteristics similar to those of manufactured medications such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medicines. It contributes to the reduction of inflammation by inhibiting the body's production of prostaglandins and leukotrienes. Put more simply, it aids in pain and swelling reduction. This plant therefore plays a crucial role in calming down our body's natural response to inflammation.11

How to best incorporate ginger into diet

Depending on your preferences, there are various methods to include ginger in your diet to get its advantages. Here are a few methods for achieving this.

  • Tea: Boiling Ginger in water and adding any extra components to your liking
  • Salads: Ginger can be incorporated into salad dressing for a tangy kick
  • Infused water To nourish your body with the benefits of ginger throughout the day, infusing your water with ginger slices can be a great choice
  • Smoothies: Include ginger in addition to any other fruits or vegetables you wish to consume

Additionally, if not consumed as part of your diet, ginger supplements can be acquired in capsule form in order to meet your personal preference for its consumption. When opting for this method, however, ginger should not be taken in the place of a meal and also should not be consumed on an empty stomach.

For the best way to include ginger as a way to help your condition, consult your medical practitioner for more information on how to use ginger in your holistic treatment plan. 

FAQs

Is ginger useful for treating the symptoms of arthritis?

Indeed, research indicates that ginger's anti-inflammatory qualities may help control the symptoms of arthritis. It might contribute to general alleviation by lowering inflammation and joint pain.

What are the day-to-day effects of arthritis?

In addition to joint discomfort, arthritis can cause stiffness, weakness, and muscle loss. Tasks could become more difficult as a result, affecting everyday activities. Furthermore, arthritis can lead to exhaustion and negatively affect mental health, which can affect social interactions and productivity.

What are the different types of arthritis?

Arthritis encompasses over 100 rheumatic illnesses. Common types include Osteoarthritis (OA) and Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA), each with unique characteristics. Other types include Ankylosing Spondylitis, Gout, Psoriatic Arthritis, Reactive Arthritis, and Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis.

How might one include ginger in their regular diet?

For a tasty and nutritious boost, ginger can be added to tea, salads, baked goods, smoothies, and infused water. There are supplements as well, but it's important to speak with a healthcare provider for advice on how much to take.

Can ginger be used in place of medicines for arthritis?

Although ginger possesses anti-inflammatory qualities akin to those of certain drugs, it should not be used in place of medical advice. When incorporating it into your arthritis treatment strategy, it's important to heed physician recommendations. It can be utilised as a supplemental element of a holistic regimen. Before making any significant modifications to your treatment regimen, always get advice from your medical practitioner.

Summary 

An intricate and common ailment, arthritis covers a wide range of rheumatic diseases affecting the joints and connective tissues. Its symptoms, which can include everything from joint discomfort to reduced mobility, can have a big impact on day-to-day activities and general well-being. It is essential to comprehend the various ways that arthritis manifests itself in order to create management plans that work. Ginger shows promise as an anti-inflammatory natural medicine, yet hereditary and environmental factors influence its expression.

References

  • NIAMS. NIAMS Health Information on Arthritis [Internet]. National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases. 2019. Available from: https://www.niams.nih.gov/health-topics/arthritis 
  • NHS. Osteoarthritis [Internet]. nhs. NHS; 2023. Available from: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/osteoarthritis/  
  • Shayan Senthelal, Thomas MA. Arthritis [Internet]. Nih.gov. StatPearls Publishing; 2018. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK518992/ 
  • Callahan LF, Jordan JM. Arthritis and Its Impact: Challenges and Opportunities for Treatment, Public Health, and Public Policy. North Carolina Medical Journal. 2007 Nov;68(6):415–21 .
  • Yelin E, Callahan LF. Special article the economic cost and social and psychological impact of musculoskeletal conditions. Arthritis & Rheumatism. 1995 Oct;38(10):1351–62. 
  • NHS. Overview - Arthritis [Internet]. NHS. 2018. Available from: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/arthritis/
  • Semwal RB, Semwal DK, Combrinck S, Viljoen AM. Gingerols and shogaols: Important nutraceutical principles from ginger. Phytochemistry [Internet]. 2015;117:554–68. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/26228533 
  • Mashhadi NS, Ghiasvand R, Askari G, Hariri M, Darvishi L, Mofid MR. Anti-oxidative and anti-inflammatory effects of ginger in health and physical activity: review of current evidence. International journal of preventive medicine [Internet]. 2013;4(Suppl 1):S36-42. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3665023/ 
  • Altman RD, Marcussen KC. Effects of a ginger extract on knee pain in patients with osteoarthritis. Arthritis & Rheumatism [Internet]. 2001;44(11):2531–8. Available from: https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1002/1529-0131(200111)44:11%3C2531::AID-ART433%3E3.0.CO;2-J 
  • Therkleson T. Ginger compress therapy for adults with osteoarthritis. Journal of Advanced Nursing. 2010 Jul 2;66(10):2225–33.
  • Hafsa Maryam, Azhar S, Muhammad Nadeem Akhtar, Asghar A, Saeed F, Huda Ateeq, et al. Role of bioactive components of ginger in management of osteoarthritis: a review. International Journal of Food Properties. 2023 Jul 25;26(1):1903–13. 

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This content is purely informational and isn’t medical guidance. It shouldn’t replace professional medical counsel. Always consult your physician regarding treatment risks and benefits. See our editorial standards for more details.

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Najma Ahmed

Bachelor of Science - BSc, Pharmacology, UCL

Najma Ahmed is an undergraduate in Pharmacology at University College London, with a fervent passion for the science of medicine and drug discovery. As a current medical writer with experience in healthcare marketing and in mentoring and tutoring, Najma aspires to excel in the pharmaceutical industry, particularly in medical communications or regulatory affairs.

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