The Efficacy and Adverse Effects of Ginger Extract for Treatment of Allergic Rhinitis Patients

Background: Allergic rhinitis (AR) is a global health problem, and the prevalence of AR continues to increase worldwide. Ginger (Zingiber officinale Roscoe) is used widely as a spice throughout the world. Ginger extract has been reported to have high potential anti-allergic and antiinflammatory activities. Objective: To investigate the clinical efficacy and adverse events of ginger extract in treating AR. Materials and Methods: A quasi-experiment study, 30 patients received ginger extract 500 mg per day for six weeks. All patients were followed up at the third week and the sixth week for the evaluation of the efficacy by using total nasal symptom score (TNSS), rhinoconjunctivitis quality of life questionnaire (RQLQ), and history taking for adverse events. Results: Ginger extract can reduce nasal symptoms and improve quality of life after taking ginger extract for three weeks with no serious adverse events. Conclusion: The ginger extract tends to treat the symptoms of AR. Keywords: Ginger extract; Allergic rhinitis