Fortunately, researchers discovered that ginger can help treat acute gastroenteritis among children. Dr. Roberto Berni Canani, associate professor from the University of Naples Federico II in Italy, spearheaded the study which involved 140 children. The participants, aged between one and 10 years old, were placed in a double-blind, randomized test - parents nor doctors were aware which children received ginger or placebo.
According to results, the vomiting episodes of those who belonged to the group given ginger were reduced by at least 20 percent. Moreover, the number of children unable to attend school due to the disease also decreased by 28 percent.
Canani said, "Acute gastroenteritis is not just an unpleasant condition for children. It has a significant burden on parents, schools and healthcare systems. We anticipate that the results will have a great impact on future clinical practice and the advice given to parents in the treatment of acute gastroenteritis and could potentially save lives across Europe and the globe."
In addition, the associate professor said the next step is to find out whether the health benefits of ginger can also work for children without acute gastroenteritis and if it can serve as a home remedy to reduce the risk of developing the condition.
More on acute gastroenteritis
Acute gastroenteritis is a condition where the stomach and intestines become inflamed. This is usually caused by infectious bacteria, such as Salmonella and viruses, such as the Norovirus. (Related: 8 Home Remedies for Stomach Flu (Gastroenteritis.)
Across the globe, it is responsible for the death of approximately 1.34 million children every year, which is at least 15 percent of all childhood deaths. In Europe, this condition causes over 87,000 inpatient cases and more than 700,000 outpatient visits annually.
This happens mainly because patients suffer episodes of vomiting and diarrhea, making it near impossible to eat drink, and/or take any oral medications.
Furthermore, the symptoms of acute gastroenteritis cause severe dehydration among patients. Canani even emphasized that dehydration is the most frequent and dangerous complication of the condition.
Ginger as an anti-inflammatory agent
Ginger is found to be an effective solution to many health conditions, including acute gastroenteritis, because of its antibacterial, antiviral, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
It protects the inner lining of the stomach from infections, has the ability to soothe stomach pain, and promote good digestion. Ginger is also known for relieving nausea and vomiting; in fact, it has been proven beneficial to pregnant women. In addition, this underground stem can also lower the frequency of watery stools.
Instead of chewing small pieces of fresh ginger root, those who cannot take the strong smell and taste can brew ginger tea. Here are two simple recipes anyone can try:
- Ginger and honey tea - Chop 1 teaspoon of fresh ginger root and add it on a 1/2 cup of water. Allow it to boil for at least 10 minutes. With a strainer, transfer the brew into a cup, then add some honey. Adding lemon to the tea is optional. Recommended intake: two to three times a day.
- Ginger ale - Chop 1/4 cup of ginger and boil it in 1 cup of water. Separately, boil 1/4 cup of sugar in 1 cup of water then let it steep. Add the two mixes together and put 1/4 cup of club soda and half of a lemon's juice. Recommended intake: Up to three glasses a day.
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