Researchers tested whether a special ginger extract could help people with mild to moderate stomach problems like indigestion and bloating. They gave 80 people either the ginger extract or a fake pill for 12 weeks and tracked their symptoms. The group taking ginger extract reported feeling better with less stomach pain, bloating, and indigestion compared to those taking the fake pill. The ginger extract also appeared to be safe with no serious side effects. This suggests ginger extract could be a natural option for people struggling with everyday stomach issues.

The Quick Take

  • What they studied: Whether a special steamed ginger extract could safely reduce stomach discomfort and digestive problems in people with mild to moderate indigestion
  • Who participated: 80 adults with mild to moderate functional dyspepsia (a condition causing stomach pain, bloating, and indigestion). Half received ginger extract (480 mg daily) and half received a placebo (fake pill) for 12 weeks
  • Key finding: People taking ginger extract had significantly better symptom improvement than those taking placebo, with improvements in stomach pain (p=0.002), constipation (p=0.016), indigestion (p=0.006), and acid reflux (p=0.001). No serious side effects were reported
  • What it means for you: Ginger extract may help reduce common stomach problems like indigestion and bloating. However, this is one small study, so talk to your doctor before using it as a treatment, especially if you take medications or have other health conditions

The Research Details

This was a randomized controlled trial, which is considered one of the strongest types of medical research. Researchers randomly divided 80 people into two equal groups: one received ginger extract and the other received a placebo (fake pill that looks identical). Neither the participants nor the researchers knew who got the real ginger extract—this is called “double-blind” and helps prevent bias. The study lasted 12 weeks, and researchers measured stomach symptoms before and after using a standard symptom rating scale. They also checked blood work and urine to make sure the ginger extract was safe.

The double-blind, placebo-controlled design is important because it helps prove that any improvements came from the ginger extract itself, not from people feeling better just because they expected to. The random assignment ensures the two groups were similar at the start, making the comparison fair and reliable.

This study has several strengths: it used a placebo control group, was double-blind, randomly assigned participants, and measured multiple symptoms. However, the sample size of 80 people is relatively small, and the study only lasted 12 weeks. The results are promising but would be stronger if confirmed by larger studies with longer follow-up periods. The study was published in a peer-reviewed journal, which means other experts reviewed it before publication.

What the Results Show

The ginger extract group showed meaningful improvements across multiple stomach symptoms compared to the placebo group. Stomach pain scores improved significantly (p=0.002), meaning there’s less than a 0.2% chance this happened by random luck. Constipation symptoms improved (p=0.016), indigestion improved (p=0.006), and acid reflux improved (p=0.001). Overall stomach symptom scores were also better in the ginger group (p=0.023). These improvements were measured using a validated symptom rating scale that doctors commonly use to assess digestive health. The improvements appeared across all major symptom categories, suggesting the ginger extract had broad benefits for digestive comfort.

Safety testing was thorough and reassuring. Blood tests, urine tests, and complete blood counts showed no clinically meaningful changes in either group. No serious adverse events were reported in the ginger extract group. This suggests that 480 mg daily of steamed ginger extract is well-tolerated without causing harm to the body’s major systems. The safety profile was comparable to placebo, indicating the ginger extract didn’t introduce new risks.

Ginger has been used in traditional medicine for centuries to treat digestive problems, and several smaller studies have suggested it may help. This research adds to that evidence by using a rigorous modern study design with a placebo control. However, most previous research on ginger and digestion has involved smaller groups or shorter time periods. This study’s 12-week duration and 80-person sample size represent a moderate-sized, well-designed trial that strengthens the evidence base, though larger studies would provide even more confidence.

The study included only 80 people, which is a relatively small sample size. Results might differ in larger, more diverse populations. The study only lasted 12 weeks, so we don’t know if benefits continue long-term or if people develop tolerance. The study focused on mild to moderate indigestion, so results may not apply to severe digestive disorders. We don’t know how the ginger extract compares to standard medical treatments for indigestion. Finally, the study didn’t examine whether the ginger extract works equally well for all types of people or if certain groups benefit more than others.

The Bottom Line

Based on this study, steamed ginger extract (480 mg daily) appears to be a safe option that may help reduce mild to moderate indigestion and related stomach symptoms. Confidence level: Moderate. This is one well-designed study, but larger studies would increase confidence. Consider discussing ginger extract with your doctor before starting, especially if you take blood thinners, have bleeding disorders, or are pregnant. It may work best as part of a broader approach including dietary changes and stress management.

This research is most relevant for adults with mild to moderate indigestion, bloating, stomach pain, or acid reflux who are looking for natural options. People with severe digestive disorders should consult their doctor before relying on ginger extract alone. Those taking blood thinners or with bleeding disorders should check with their doctor first, as ginger may have mild blood-thinning effects. Pregnant women should consult their healthcare provider before using ginger supplements.

In this study, improvements were measured after 12 weeks of daily use. Some people might notice benefits sooner, while others may need the full 12 weeks. It’s reasonable to give ginger extract a 4-6 week trial to see if it helps your symptoms, but consistency matters—taking it daily as directed is important for best results.

Want to Apply This Research?

  • Track daily ginger extract intake (yes/no) and rate stomach symptoms each evening on a simple 1-10 scale, noting specific symptoms like bloating, pain, indigestion, and reflux. Compare your average symptom score from weeks 1-2 versus weeks 10-12 to see if there’s improvement
  • Set a daily reminder to take ginger extract at the same time each day (ideally with a meal). Log your intake immediately after taking it. Also note what you ate and any stress that day, since these factors affect digestion. This creates accountability and helps identify patterns
  • Use the app to create a simple symptom diary with weekly summaries. After 6 weeks, review your trend to decide if the ginger extract is helping. If symptoms improve, continue for the full 12 weeks. If no improvement by week 6, discuss alternatives with your doctor. After 12 weeks, track whether benefits persist if you continue use, or if symptoms return if you stop

This research suggests ginger extract may help with mild to moderate indigestion, but it is not a substitute for professional medical advice. If you have persistent stomach problems, severe symptoms, or are taking medications (especially blood thinners), consult your doctor before starting ginger supplements. Pregnant women should check with their healthcare provider. Results from one study should not be considered definitive medical guidance. Always discuss new supplements with your healthcare provider, especially if you have underlying health conditions or take other medications.