Based on PubMed | Is there clinical evidence that ginger helps reduce asthma symptoms or improve lung function?

There is currently no strong clinical evidence that ginger improves asthma symptoms or lung function in humans. Most of the supportive data come from laboratory and animal studies, and major asthma guidelines do not recommend ginger as a treatment. Ginger may relax airway muscle in lab settings, but this has not been confirmed in high‑quality clinical trials in people with asthma. ^{[1] [2]}

What the science shows

• Laboratory and animal research: Ginger and some of its active components (such as [6]-gingerol, [8]-gingerol, and [6]-shogaol) can relax airway smooth muscle and reduce airway resistance in mice, likely by affecting calcium signaling in the muscle cells that line the airways. These findings suggest a possible bronchodilator effect, but they are preclinical and not proof of benefit in humans. ^[1]
• Human clinical trials: As of now, there is a lack of randomized, controlled clinical trials showing that ginger supplements or ginger formulations improve day‑to‑day asthma symptoms, reduce wheezing, or improve objective lung function measures like FEV1. Without well‑designed trials in people, clinical effectiveness remains unproven. ^[2]

What guidelines and reputable sources say

• Leading asthma care resources emphasize that complementary options should not replace standard controller and reliever therapies, and they note that more research is needed to judge both benefits and risks of herbal supplements for asthma. Ginger is not listed as a recommended therapy in mainstream asthma guidelines. ^[2]

Safety considerations and interactions

• Ginger is generally considered safe as a food, but concentrated supplements can have side effects and interactions. Because ginger can affect platelet aggregation (blood thinning), supplements may increase bleeding risk, particularly around surgery or if combined with blood thinners. ^{[3] [4]}
• Reputable medical centers advise avoiding ginger supplements in certain situations, such as near the time of surgery and during pregnancy or lactation, due to potential risks. These cautions are especially important for anyone considering long‑term or high‑dose supplementation. ^{[5] [4]}

Practical takeaways

• Based on current evidence, ginger should not be relied upon to control asthma. If you choose to use ginger as a food or mild tea, it is unlikely to substitute for inhaled corticosteroids or bronchodilators that have proven benefits. ^[2]
• If you are considering a ginger supplement, discuss it with your clinician, especially if you have a bleeding disorder, take anticoagulants/antiplatelets, or have an upcoming procedure. Stopping supplements at least two weeks before surgery is commonly advised due to bleeding concerns. ^{[4] [3]}

Bottom line

• Evidence gap: There are promising lab and animal data suggesting potential airway relaxation from ginger compounds, but there are no robust human trials demonstrating improved asthma control or lung function. ^[1]
• Clinical guidance: Standard, guideline‑based asthma treatments remain the cornerstone of care, and complementary herbs like ginger should be approached cautiously and only as an adjunct after medical discussion. ^[2]