Ginger, long known for its ability to help relieve nausea, may also be useful in supporting normal intestinal function during diarrhea, according to research published in the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry (September 20, 2007; published online ahead of print).
Researchers at China Medical University in Taiwan found that ginger protected intestinal cells by blocking a toxin produced by Escherichia coli. This toxin, known as E. coli heat-labile enterotoxin (LT), is a major contributor to severe diarrheal illness and remains a leading cause of death in developing countries. Diarrhea is also common in children in the United States and accounts for nearly 2.5 million physician visits each year.
In this animal study, conducted in mice, ginger was shown to block the binding of LT to receptors on intestinal cells, helping prevent toxin-induced damage. Ginger also possesses antioxidant properties and has a long history of traditional use for digestive complaints. It is generally recognized as safe by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.
Because this research was conducted in animals, the findings were presented as preliminary, and further research is needed to determine whether similar effects occur in humans.
