HEALTH BLOG

The Power of Ginger in Easing Cancer Treatment Side Effects

by Abbie Leeson and Janessa Stewart | 03/03/25

Ginger & Curcumin Make Your Supplements More Effective

Supporting Cancer Care and Recovery

For centuries, ginger has been valued in traditional medicine for its therapeutic properties, particularly for soothing digestive discomfort. Today, its active compounds—gingerol, shogaols and paradols—are being studied for their potential to support well-being during and after cancer treatments like chemotherapy and radiation. (3)(5) From helping to reduce nausea, to stimulating appetite and aiding digestion, ginger may offer natural relief for some of the common challenges patients face on their path to recovery. (3)(5)

Ginger for Dry Mouth Relief

Dry mouth, or xerostomia, is a common issue for cancer patients, especially those undergoing chemotherapy or radiation therapy. Studies show up to 70% of cancer patients experience dry mouth, which can lead to difficulties in eating, speaking and maintaining oral health.(1) While research on ginger’s direct effects on dry mouth is limited, ginger’s anti-inflammatory and saliva-stimulating properties may offer some comfort.(6)

How Ginger Can Help:

Ginger can support saliva production (6), helping to lubricate the mouth and ease discomfort. Adding ginger juice to water, teas or juices not only adds flavor but also encourages more fluid intake—important for combating dehydration, a key contributor to dry mouth.

Try These Ginger-Infused Tips:

Ginger Rescue Lozenges: These lozenges are an easy, on-the-go option that can stimulate saliva and help alleviate dryness.
Ginger Water: Add a few tablespoons of Ginger Juice to water with a squeeze of lemon for a refreshing drink.
Ginger-Infused Smoothies: Blend Ginger Juice with hydrating fruits like watermelon or cucumber for a soothing, moistening treat.

By incorporating ginger into your daily routine, you may find gentle, natural relief from dry mouth symptoms.

Hydration During Cancer Treatment: How Ginger Can Help

Staying hydrated is crucial for overall well-being, especially during cancer treatment. Dehydration can lead to fatigue, affect kidney function, and make it harder for the body to process medications, impacting recovery. For cancer patients, maintaining adequate hydration is vital to support energy levels, aid digestion, and enhance the effectiveness of treatments.

Ginger to Support Hydration

Ginger not only makes hydration more flavorful but also stimulates taste buds, which can be beneficial when treatment affects appetite. Adding ginger to your fluids—whether through soothing teas, infused waters or broths—can encourage increased fluid intake and help keep dehydration at bay.

Ginger Tea and Infused Water

Simple Ginger Tea

Add 1-2 tablespoons of Ginger Juice to 2 cups of hot water.
Stir well and enjoy warm or chilled.
For extra flavor and health benefits, add honey or a slice of lemon.

Cucumber Ginger Infused Water

Add 1-2 tablespoons of Ginger Juice and a few slices of cucumber to a pitcher of water.
Let it sit for a few hours in the fridge to allow the flavors to infuse.
Sip throughout the day for a refreshing, hydrating boost.

Ginger Lemon Broth

Stir 1 tablespoon of Ginger Juice and a slice of lemon into warm vegetable or chicken broth.
Enjoy as a comforting, hydrating option that also provides nourishment.

By incorporating ginger into your hydration routine, you can make drinking fluids more enjoyable and support your body through treatment.

Altered Taste: Why Cancer Treatments Affect Flavor Perception

Cancer treatments like chemotherapy and radiation can alter taste perception in various ways. (1) Chemotherapy drugs, for instance, can affect the taste buds directly by causing damage to rapidly dividing cells, including those on the tongue. Radiation, especially when targeted near the head and neck, can also disrupt salivary glands, leading to dry mouth and diminished taste sensitivity. (1) These changes can make certain foods taste bitter, metallic or simply “off,” making it difficult for patients to enjoy meals or maintain adequate nutrition.

How Ginger Can Help

Ginger’s bold, spicy flavor can help mask unpleasant tastes and even stimulate taste buds, making it easier to enjoy food. Additionally, ginger can act as a palate cleanser, helping to “reset” the mouth before and after meals. Try rinsing with ginger tea or ginger-infused water before eating to prepare your palate.

Flavor Pairings with Ginger to Enhance Enjoyment

To make meals more appealing, pair ginger with complementary flavors that balance and enhance its natural warmth. Here are a few ideas:

Lemon and Honey: Lemon adds a refreshing citrus note, and honey provides a gentle sweetness that softens ginger’s spice, creating a soothing and invigorating flavor.
Mint: Fresh mint brings a cooling contrast to ginger’s heat, which can be especially refreshing in beverages or teas.
Cinnamon and Apple: This combination with ginger adds depth and warmth to foods, perfect for comforting, easy-to-enjoy dishes.
Turmeric and Black Pepper: For a more savory option, turmeric and a pinch of black pepper complement ginger’s flavor and add anti-inflammatory benefits.
Cucumber and Lime: In infused waters, cucumber and lime balance ginger’s spice, creating a hydrating, palate-pleasing drink.

Experimenting with these ginger pairings can make food and drink more enjoyable and help maintain a sense of satisfaction at mealtime, even during treatment.

Chewing Problems and Ginger: A Soothing Solution

For those experiencing chewing difficulties, whether due to mouth sores or other issues (1), ginger can be a beneficial addition to softer foods. It offers versatility in both flavor and health benefits, without requiring extensive chewing. Here are a few ways ginger can be easily integrated into soft foods:

Smoothies: Ginger Juice can be blended into smoothies, offering a natural, refreshing kick while still being gentle on the mouth.
Soups: Ginger can be added to pureed soups, giving them an aromatic depth and anti-inflammatory benefits.
Mouth Rinse: A ginger-infused rinse can soothe the mouth, thanks to its anti-inflammatory properties, such as gingerol and shogaol.(5)

Furthermore, ginger may aid those with swallowing difficulties (4). Research has shown that ginger can increase the concentration of Substance P, a neuropeptide in saliva that plays a key role in the swallowing reflex (4). In a study involving patients with swallowing dysfunction, those who consumed orally disintegrating ginger tablets experienced a significant increase in Substance P concentration compared to the placebo group (4). This suggests that ginger may enhance swallowing ability, providing a dual benefit for individuals struggling with this issue.

Poor Appetite: Ginger’s Natural Power to Stimulate Appetite and Improve Food Enjoyment

If you’re struggling with a low appetite, ginger might be just the natural remedy you need. Known for its anti-nausea properties (2)(5), ginger can help make food more appealing. By relieving nausea, it helps stimulate your appetite and increase food intake. Several studies have shown ginger’s effectiveness in enhancing appetite, with one clinical trial revealing that it may improve food consumption and reduce nausea, especially in patients undergoing chemotherapy. (2)(5) Additionally, traditional Ayurvedic medicine has long recognized ginger as a powerful appetite stimulant due to its ability to increase salivation and gastric motility, which can help with digestion and food enjoyment. (5)

Ginger also pairs well with other appetite-boosting herbs and foods, such as peppermint and fennel, which are known for their digestive support. For a variety of ways to enjoy ginger and stimulate your appetite, here are a few easy recipe ideas:

Ginger Soother: A refreshing and soothing drink that helps settle the stomach while encouraging hydration.
Ginger Smoothie: Blend Ginger Juice with fruits like pineapple, mango, or berries for a delicious, digestion-friendly snack.
Ginger-Infused Soup: A warm bowl of ginger-spiced vegetable or chicken soup can be comforting and easy to consume.
Ginger Stir-Fry: Add ginger to stir-fried vegetables or protein like chicken or tofu for a flavorful and easy-to-eat meal.
GIN GINS Ginger Chews: A quick, portable option that delivers a punch of fresh ginger to kickstart your appetite.

Potential Side Effects

While ginger is generally safe for most people, it’s important to be aware of potential side effects, especially for individuals taking certain medications. For those on anticoagulant (blood-thinning) medications, such as warfarin, ginger can increase the risk of bleeding. It may also interact with other medications, such as diabetes drugs or high blood pressure medications. It’s always a good idea to monitor your intake and consult your healthcare provider before using ginger as a supplement or in large quantities, particularly if you’re on any prescribed medications. Always err on the side of caution when adding new foods or supplements to your routine.

Consult Healthcare Providers

Before making any dietary changes, especially during cancer treatment or other serious health conditions, it’s crucial to consult your healthcare provider. They can provide personalized advice about how ginger might affect your treatment plan and overall well-being. Some forms of ginger, such as supplements or high doses, may not be suitable for everyone, and your provider can guide you on the best options for your individual health needs. By working together with your healthcare team, you can safely incorporate ginger into your diet in a way that supports your health goals.

Conclusion

It’s Personal

Everyone’s body responds differently to foods and supplements, so it is helpful to personalize your approach to incorporating ginger into your diet. Consider keeping a food diary to track how different ginger preparations—such as ginger tea, smoothies or GIN GINS — affect your appetite and overall well-being. This record can help you discover which forms of ginger work best for you, allowing you to tailor your approach based on your personal experiences and preferences.

We’d Love to Hear from You

Share your experiences with ginger and its role in your cancer treatment or wellness routine. Whether it’s a simple recipe, a helpful tip, or a story of how ginger has supported your appetite and digestion, your insights can help others on their journey. Let’s build a supportive community where we can learn from one another’s experiences and share the benefits of ginger. Please send your thoughts to [email protected]

References

1. * Frowen, J., et al. (2020) The prevalence of patient-reported dysphagia and oral complications in cancer patients. Support Care Cancer 28, 1141–1150.

2. * Marx W, McCarthy AL, Ried K, et al. The Effect of a Standardized Ginger Extract on Chemotherapy-Induced Nausea-Related Quality of Life in Patients Undergoing Moderately or Highly Emetogenic Chemotherapy: A Double Blind, Randomized, Placebo Controlled Trial. Nutrients. 2017;9(8):867.

3. * Lete I, Allué J. The Effectiveness of Ginger in the Prevention of Nausea and Vomiting during Pregnancy and Chemotherapy. Integr Med Insights. 2016 Mar 31;11:11-7.

4. * Noriaki Abe, et al. (2015) Swallowing Function Improvement Effect of Ginger (Zingiber officinale), Food Science and Technology Research, 2015, Volume 21, Issue 5, Pages 705-714

5. * Dissanayake KGC, et al. (2020) A review on medicinal uses of zingiber officinale (ginger). Int J Health Sci Res.; 10(6):142-148.

6. * Wongkalasin K, Thinkhamrop B, et al. (2023) The Effects of Ginger on Unstimulated Salivary Flow Rate: A Double-Blind, Randomized, Placebo-Control Trial. J Med Assoc Thai; 106:627-33.