How much ginger should I take? This is the question that everyone asks. We need to take into consideration literally dozens of variables like intended use, one’s age, medical history and genetic makeup and the quality and nature of the product. Fortunately, unlike virtually every modern drug, you will have difficulty erring on the high, or overdose, side. As mentioned earlier, one of ginger’s most convincing testimonials is its multi-millennia safety record. The historical literature contains virtually no mention of adverse effects and the body of modern scientific literature supports this with a unanimous verdict of no side effects. Therefore some believe that most likely we might err by taking too little or by selecting an improper or low quality form.
To some extent, what one expects to gain from ginger will determine how much and when it is to be taken. For example, to enhance digestion of a meal of the effects of dietary supplements, simply take ginger at mealtime or ten to fifteen minutes before and after eating. For the beneficial effects on the circulatory system, the research suggests that it might take up to seven days and/or dosages in excess of 2 grams powdered rhizome for maximum results.29 For prevention of nausea or vomiting, one would want to start dosing with a minimum of 1,000 milligrams at least three hours prior to a challenging event. For general tonic benefits, one of the best ways to begin a day is with a glass of ginger tea or homemade ginger ale. There is not necessarily a best time to take ginger. Some people like the warming sensation of ginger on an empty stomach, while other find this experience uncomfortable.
I found a chart entitled “Ginger for Health” which broke down the dosage of ginger in the following manner. Dried rhizome’s minimum daily suggested intake is 1,000 milligrams. Fresh rhizome equals 1 teaspoon grated. Liquid extract is used at 2 droppers at a time, while a syrup is given at 2 teaspoons at a time.30
In Dr. Christopher’s book entitled “The School of Natural Healing”, it states the following dosage guidelines. If it is a fluid extract you take 15-60 drops. Used as an infusion you would use 2 fluid ounces or 1 teacupful at a time. In the form of an oil, 2-3 drops in a cupful of water need to be taken. In powder form, 500 milligrams is useful. While in tincture form 5-20 drops is sufficient.31
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29. Lumb, A. B. “Effect of dried ginger on human platelet function.” Thrombosis and Haemostasis 71, no. 1 (Jan. 1994): 110-1.
30. Schulick, Paul. Ginger Common Spice & Wonder Drug Third Edition. Prescott, Az.: Hohm Press, 1996.
31. Christopher, John R., Dr., School of Natural Healing. Provo, UT: BiWorld Publishers, 1976.
