The available evidence suggests, “Ginger may be an effective treatment for nausea and vomiting in pregnancy.”

Researchers from the University of Naples in Italy came to this conclusion based on their review of the medical literature, and the results of 6 well-designed clinical studies of 675 pregnant women.

• Four of six studies showed that ginger (Zingiber officinale) was more effective than placebo.
• The other 2 studies showed that ginger was as effective as vitamin B6 (pyridoxine) in relieving the severity of nausea and vomiting episodes.
• There was no evidence of significant side effects or adverse effects on pregnancy outcomes.

How much ginger do you have to take?

In one study where ginger was as effective as vitamin B6, women took a 350 mg ginger capsule 3 times daily, or a 25 mg pyridoxine capsule 3 times daily for 3 weeks.

The women in this study reported a reduction in their nausea and vomiting by about half with each treatment.

Don’t keep the use of any herbal a secret during your pregnancy. Discuss what you are doing or thinking of doing with your doctor. After all, your health and the health of your baby are at stake.

11/9/06 21:17 JR