Ginger Supplements Show Promise in Autoimmune Inflammation Control

New York, September 23rd – A recent study has unveiled the potential of ginger supplements in managing inflammation for individuals living with autoimmune diseases.

The research centered on the influence of ginger supplementation on a specific type of white blood cell known as ‘neutrophils,’ with a particular focus on neutrophil extracellular trap (NET) formation, also referred to as NETosis, and its implications for inflammation control.

As detailed in the journal JCI Insight, the study reveals that ginger consumption by healthy individuals enhances the resistance of their neutrophils to NETosis. This discovery holds substantial importance since NETs, described as microscopic, web-like structures, are known culprits in fueling inflammation and clotting processes. These processes contribute significantly to a range of autoimmune diseases, including lupus, antiphospholipid syndrome, and rheumatoid arthritis.

Kristen Demoruelle, senior co-author and MD, PhD, and associate professor of medicine at the University of Colorado School of Medicine, United States, stated, “There are a lot of diseases where neutrophils are abnormally overactive. We found that ginger can help to restrain NETosis, and this is important because it is a natural supplement that may be helpful to treat inflammation and symptoms for people with several different autoimmune diseases.”

During the clinical trial, it was observed that the daily consumption of a ginger supplement for seven days (equivalent to 20 mg of gingerols per day) by healthy volunteers led to an increase in a chemical called cAMP within neutrophils. Elevated cAMP levels subsequently inhibited NETosis in response to various stimuli relevant to disease conditions.

Jason Knight, senior co-author, MD, PhD, and associate professor at the University of Michigan, noted, “Our research, for the first time, provides evidence for the biological mechanism that underlies ginger’s apparent anti-inflammatory properties in people.”

The researchers anticipate that this study, by providing further insights into the benefits of ginger and elucidating the direct mechanism by which it affects neutrophils, will encourage healthcare providers and patients to explore the potential of ginger supplements as a complementary component of their treatment strategies.

“We believe ginger may have a genuine capacity to enhance existing treatment programs. The aim is to offer more strategic and personalized approaches to alleviate individuals’ symptoms,” emphasized Knight.