Ginger Pain Relief Compress
Anti-inflammatory for muscle and joint pain
Strong evidenceHerbs in this remedy
About this remedy
Ginger has demonstrated significant anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects in clinical trials. A study found 2 g of ginger daily reduced exercise-induced muscle pain by 25%. Ginger inhibits COX-2 and 5-lipoxygenase enzymes — similar mechanisms to NSAIDs but without the gastric side effects.
Preparation
Grate 3 inches of fresh ginger, wrap in cheesecloth, and steep in hot water for 10 minutes. Apply the warm ginger cloth as a compress to sore muscles or joints for 20 minutes. For internal use, steep grated ginger for tea.
Dosage
Apply compress 2–3 times daily. Or drink 2–3 cups of strong ginger tea daily. Supplement: 1–2 g ginger powder daily.
Cautions
Topical ginger may cause skin warmth and redness — this is normal. May interact with blood thinners. Limit to 4 g per day internally.
Research
Black et al., J Pain, 2010 — RCT; Terry et al., Phytomedicine, 2011 — Meta-analysis