Fresh ginger root (Zingiber officinalis) has been documented and used for well over 1500 years in Chinese Medicine to treat the initial onset of the common cold and flu and for both acute and chronic cough (along with many other indications).
Modern research has shown that fresh ginger root (but not dried) is effective in blocking viral attachment and internalization. It may be more effective when used before viral inoculation (being exposed to the virus).
I’m doubtful ginger alone would prevent infection if exposed to the virus, but in combination with other methods it may help. Because viral load (how much of the virus you are exposed to) is likely a factor in the severity of symptoms, anything that can be done to reduce that load may also be helpful.
In Chinese Medicine ginger is considered a “hot” herb and should not be used by itself if a cold or flu progresses to having “hot symptomatology” such as strong sore throat, dark yellow or green nasal congestion (sinus infection), or a cough with yellow or green phlegm (respiratory infection). It can be used in combination with other herbs for these conditions but that is beyond scope of this article.
Ginger is generally safe but may have interactions with certain blood thinning and diabetes medications. For more information: Web MD – Ginger: Side Effects and Interactions
Methods of use:
Fresh Ginger Chew: Cut (and peel) a ¼” slice of fresh ginger root. Before and during social interactions (runs to the store, etc), suck on the piece of ginger. Be sure to put it in your mouth with clean hands before putting on a mask if using.
Fresh Ginger Tea: Peel and slice thinly about 5 grams (roughly 1” x .5”) of fresh ginger root per 8-12 oz (1-1.5 cups) of water. Boil water and pour over the ginger. Steep for 5-10 minutes.
Drink preventatively, before or after any social interactions, or at the very beginning signs of cold or flu. Fresh ginger can be combined with other teas (I like it with green tea, hibiscus flower tea (te de jamaica), and with mint tea). It can also be combined with REAL honey and lemon/lime for dry cough.
One thought on “Fresh Ginger to Help Prevent Viral Attachment”