What is Ginger?
Ginger is a plant that is often used in alternative medicine. It grows in several countries, including Mexico, India and China. The underground stem, otherwise known as the rhizome of ginger, is often used as an Asian cooking spice. In recent years, the ginger rhizome has become a popular form of herbal medicine.
What is a Migraine Headache?
A migraine is a severe form of headache that is often accompanied by dizziness, nausea, sensitivity to light and throbbing pain. Although scientists have yet to come up with a theory about the exact cause of migraines, it's speculated that the following process occurs.
First, the nervous system responds to a trigger by causing spasms in the arteries at the base of the brain. This, in turn, causes the arteries to dilate. The dilation of the arteries produces pain-producing substances known as prostaglandins.
How Does Ginger Help Migraines?
Researchers at the Odense University of Denmark have speculated that ginger blocks the actions of the prostaglandins. Since research is still in its preliminary stage, there are conflicting opinions about the best source, and the exact dosage. The Danish researchers suggest 1/3 tsp. powdered ginger.
Dr. Charles Lo, a Chicago specialist in Chinese medicine suggests that fresh ginger is preferable to powder. According to Lo, grating the ginger or putting it through a garlic press will preserve its potent natural juices.
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