Mounting Evidence that Ginger Improves Life for People with Multiple Sclerosis
More than 80% of people with relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis suffer from gastrointestinal problems that harm their quality of life. New research suggests that something as safe and simple as ginger can change all that.
Two recent studies have suggested that taking ginger supplements can improve the quality of life for people with relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis, which is the most common type of MS.
The first double-blind, placebo-controlled study found that 500mg of ginger taken 3 times a day improves disability sufficiently to significantly improve both physical and psychological quality of life (Food Funct. 2023 April 24;14(8):3701-3711).
And now an important second study adds more detail. This double-blind study of 52 people with relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis looked at the effect of ginger on their gastrointestinal symptoms. This study is important for people with MS because recent research shows that over 80% of people with MS suffer with GI symptoms caused either by complications from their disease or by drugs their taking for their disease. Though people with MS suffer from many GI problems, the most common is constipation. People with MS rank bowel dysfunction as the the third most important factor limiting their ability to work after spasticity and incoordination.
The 12 week study compared a placebo to 500mg of ginger, standardized for 25mg of gingerols.
Taking ginger significantly improved the frequency and severity of nausea, bloating and constipation as well as the severity of heartburn. The frequency and severity of nausea and constipation got significantly worse in the placebo group and the difference was significant.
Ginger was most effective for constipation, which is perfect, since constipation is the most common GI problem in people with MS.
Ginger was not only effective, it was very safe. In fact, minor side effects were more common in the placebo group than in the ginger group.
This study shows that ginger can significantly improve GI symptoms in people with MS, suggesting improvement in quality of life, daily functioning and ability to work. Coupled with the first study that found improvement in disability, this study suggests that ginger may be an safe and inexpensive way to improve the quality of life of people with MS.
BMC Complement Med Ther. 2023;23:383.
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For much more on treating multiple sclerosis naturally, see our book The Family Naturopathic Encyclopedia.
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