Page 6 - Ginger e-book

Gastroprotective Effects of Ginger

and Turmeric Essential Oils

Gastric health is an important contributor to quality of life. The health of the
gastric tissue, or mucosa, is dependent on protective mechanisms to balance the
natural, harsh conditions imposed by gastric juices and to prevent cellular
damage. This delicate balance can be disrupted by environmental exposures

innate to the function of the stomach. Consequently, considerable research has
been aimed at maintaining the healthy function of gastric tissues.

In a study conducted by researchers from India, the effects of ginger and
turmeric essential oils on gastric mucosa were examined to identify any possible
gastroprotective benefits. After administration of both essential oils
simultaneously, the researchers found that cellular levels of antioxidant enzymes
increased significantly. In addition, they found that the gastric tissue exposed to
ginger and turmeric essential oils showed a better state of health compared to

those tissues not exposed. They proposed that the increase in antioxidant
enzymes was what helped prevent gastric damage, thereby maintaining better
health of gastric tissues. While these findings require further investigation, they
may demonstrate that essential oils may optimize key cellular processes to
normal health maintenance.

Various extracts of ginger have been used in its native China, throughout Asia,
Africa, and the Caribbean for centuries for a variety of digestive concerns, but
research suggests that it may be the essential oil that is the most efficacious.
With its high concentration of sesquiterpenes, specifically α-zingiberene and
beta-sesquiphellandrene, ginger essential oil has been shown to support healthy

digestion and reduce feelings of occasional nausea.*

doTERRA Science blog articles are based on a variety of scientific sources. Many of the
referenced studies are preliminary, experimental studies and further research is needed to gain
a greater understanding of the findings. Essential oils may have drug interactions, patient
contraindications, or adverse effects that cannot be evaluated using experimental research
results alone. If you are interested in using essential oils for any health concern, consult with
your healthcare provider first.