Ginger: a natural ally against pregnancy nausea and menstrual comfort

Its rhizome contains major active compounds — gingerols and shogaols — with powerful anti-nausea, anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties.

Its benefits are particularly well-supported for helping with first-trimester pregnancy nausea, with efficacy validated by numerous scientific studies, as well as for menstrual comfort, with an action comparable to that of certain anti-inflammatory agents. The standardisation in gingerols of the organic extract used directly determines the consistency and intensity of the effects obtained.

In its natural form, ginger is everywhere: freshly grated into stir-fries, Asian soups and vegetable juices, dried and ground in gingerbread spice blends, candied as a confection or steeped as a hot or cold herbal infusion. It is also enjoyed in lemon water with citrus for a revitalising drink. In Indian, Japanese, Thai and Caribbean cuisines, it is a fundamental spice. Other roots with similar digestive and anti-nausea properties include galangal, turmeric and cardamom, often combined with ginger in traditional preparations. The absorption of gingerols depends on the form consumed: fresh ginger is richer in active gingerols, whilst dried and heated ginger develops more shogaols with antioxidant properties. Dietary intake remains difficult to standardise, with highly variable content depending on the preparation and quantity consumed.

In the form of supplements, ginger can be found as: standardised dry extract in gingerols, rhizome powder capsules, dried root infusion, lozenges or liquid formulas combining ginger with other active ingredients. For pregnancy nausea, standardised extracts ensure a consistent active content from one dose to the next. In Bye Bye Nausea by Jolly Mama, ginger is combined with cardamom in a formula specifically designed for the comfort of pregnant women. It is advisable to choose extracts of organic origin, with clear traceability regarding the species and plant part used. Ginger is naturally vegan and is generally very well tolerated at usual doses.