Ginger

You can also the article on ginger essential oil by conducting a search on the Studies page. It’s important to note that oral and topical applications of ginger have distinct modes of action.

Ginger, originating from Asia and primarily used as a spice, possesses well-known culinary significance. However, it offers medicinal benefits, particularly in relieving nausea and digestive discomfort due to its unique constituents. Additionally, ginger is associated with aiding the brain and nervous system in managing nausea.

Its applications extend beyond anti-nausea properties, finding usefulness in addressing various health conditions such as menstrual cramps, osteoarthritis, diabetes, migraines, and more.

In the context of alopecia, ginger represents a moderately popular treatment option, often found in hair care products like shampoos and supplements.

Does it work against hair loss?

Ginger, much like garlic, is often hailed as a “miracle” plant, with countless recommendations circulating on platforms like TikTok, YouTube, blogs, and across the internet, extolling its virtues for hair health. However, while these claims aren’t entirely baseless, the reality can be quite different.

According to my research, ginger may have an impact on hair loss in the following manner:

Ginger is an antioxidant and an anti-inflammatory

When it comes to hair loss, there are various underlying factors, and excessive oxidation and inflammation are noteworthy contributors.

One key factor in hair loss is oxidative stress, a condition that arises when free radicals significantly outnumber the body’s antioxidants. Excessive free radical production can be triggered by various factors such as stress, an unhealthy diet, or exposure to environmental pollutants.

Oxidative stress can lead to significant health concerns, including hair loss, inflammation, premature aging, heart diseases, and even some types of cancer.

As per certain studies, the consumption of antioxidants like vitamin E has shown promise in reducing the risk of specific diseases and hair loss.

In our case, ginger also boasts antioxidant properties, making it one of the rare plants that can compete with the antioxidant levels found in red fruits (source) (source) (source) (source) (source).

Conversely, inflammation is a defense mechanism activated by the immune system in response to various stimuli, including infections, irritations, muscle tension, or injuries.

Interestingly, almost all forms of alopecia are associated with chronic inflammation on the scalp, and effectively reducing this inflammation has proven beneficial in reducing hair loss (source).

Ginger contains compounds with well-established anti-inflammatory properties, supported by multiple studies (source) (source) (source) (source) (source) (source).

If your hair loss is worsened by excessive oxidation or chronic inflammation, ginger may have the potential to offer improvement.

Ginger’s Potential in Alleviating Alopecia Areata

Alopecia areata is characterized by localized hair loss in circular patches, and its various subtypes can result in complete hair loss or even the loss of body hair. This condition is closely linked to autoimmune problems.

An Iraqi study led by Ashwaq Najemaldeen Abbas suggests that combining prednisolone (an anti-inflammatory medication) with ginger extract may be effective in reducing alopecia areata.

The study compared two treatment approaches:

• 10mg of prednisolone + ginger extract
• 100mg of prednisolone + ginger extract

The primary objective was to determine if ginger supplementation could allow for a reduction in the prednisolone dosage (an anti-inflammatory drug), thereby minimizing its potential side effects.

The results were highly encouraging, as both treatment protocols yielded satisfactory outcomes.

Additionally, the study underscores ginger’s anti-inflammatory properties once more, shedding light on its potential role in managing alopecia areata.

Concluding thoughts and verdict

There is limited research specifically analyzing the effects of oral ginger consumption on hair loss. However, studies have been conducted on liquid ginger extract and ginger essential oil.

Nonetheless, I can suggest incorporating ginger into your diet from time to time due to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. This could potentially be useful in reducing alopecia areata and its related subtypes.

Precautions & side effects

• Some individuals may experience allergic reactions.
• Ginger may lead to bloating, heartburn, stomach discomfort, and mouth irritation.
• If you have a bleeding disorder, be cautious as ginger can increase the risk of bleeding.
• Ginger might interact with blood thinners, diabetes medications, and blood pressure drugs.
• Pregnant and nursing women should exercise caution and avoid exceeding recommended dosages.