Ginger ale for an upset stomach is one of the oldest home remedies around. Some of that reputation holds up in research. Some of it doesn't.
Written by Vita Globe Editorial Team | Reviewed against NIH (NCCIH) guidance, ACOG's practice bulletin and peer-reviewed meta-analyses
Does ginger help with nausea and digestion?
For pregnancy-related nausea, research suggests ginger may help[1][2], and ACOG's practice bulletin on nausea and vomiting of pregnancy includes ginger among nonpharmacologic options[3]. For motion sickness, studies generally haven't shown a benefit, and results for nausea after chemotherapy or surgery are uncertain[1]. Ginger has a long traditional use for indigestion, but clinical evidence for everyday digestion is limited.
Caveat: Guidance on ginger supplements in pregnancy isn't uniform. Memorial Sloan Kettering advises against it[4], so talk to your OB before taking any ginger product while pregnant.
Sources: NCCIH: Ginger · Viljoen et al., 2014 · ACOG Practice Bulletin 189 · Verified 2026-09-27
IN THIS ARTICLE
Does ginger help with morning sickness?
This is where ginger has its best evidence. NCCIH says research shows ginger may be helpful for nausea and vomiting associated with pregnancy[1]. A 2014 systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials examined ginger specifically for pregnancy-associated nausea and vomiting, including its safety[2].
The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) addresses ginger in its practice bulletin on nausea and vomiting of pregnancy, listing it among nonpharmacologic options that may be considered[3].
There's an important counterpoint. Memorial Sloan Kettering says ginger supplements are not suggested during pregnancy because of possible risks to the developing baby[4]. When expert sources differ, the right move is simple: ask your OB or midwife what form and amount, if any, makes sense for you.
A note on our product: our Turmeric, Ginger & Black Pepper Gummies are not a morning sickness remedy. They also contain turmeric, and NCCIH says turmeric supplements during pregnancy may be unsafe[5].
Does ginger help with motion sickness or other nausea?
Less clearly. According to NCCIH:
- Motion sickness: studies generally haven't shown ginger to be effective[1].
- Chemotherapy-related nausea: evidence is uncertain[1]. Memorial Sloan Kettering notes some studies found ginger may help, but larger studies are needed[4].
- Nausea after surgery: evidence is uncertain[1]. MSK also advises stopping ginger supplements two weeks before surgery and not using them right after surgery for nausea, because of bleeding risk[4].
Is ginger good for digestion and bloating?
Ginger has been used for centuries for indigestion and stomach discomfort, and NCCIH acknowledges that traditional use[1]. But tradition isn't the same as clinical proof, and NCCIH doesn't list digestion among the areas where research has shown a clear benefit.
Ironically, ginger itself can cause digestive side effects in some people, including abdominal discomfort, heartburn and diarrhea[1]. If you have reflux, ginger may make it worse rather than better.
Who should be careful with ginger supplements?
- People on blood thinners or NSAIDs. Ginger supplements may increase bleeding risk[4].
- People with bleeding disorders or gallstones. MSK says ginger supplements should be avoided in these groups[4].
- People on insulin or diabetes medicines. Ginger supplements may lower blood sugar further[4].
- Anyone scheduled for surgery. Stop two weeks beforehand[4].
Ginger in food, like a stir-fry or a cup of ginger tea, is a different exposure from a concentrated supplement. For more on combinations to avoid, see what not to mix with turmeric and ginger.
The honest summary
- Ginger's best evidence is for pregnancy nausea, and ACOG includes it as an option[2][3], but check with your OB first.
- It generally hasn't helped motion sickness in studies[1].
- Its digestive reputation is mostly traditional; the clinical evidence is limited.
- Be careful with blood thinners, gallstones and upcoming surgery[4].
Taking turmeric and ginger together? Read what happens when you take turmeric and ginger every day.
Our option
Vita Globe Turmeric, Ginger & Black Pepper Gummies – Pouch
Our pouch holds the same formula as our bottle: 250mg turmeric extract (95% curcuminoids), 12mg ginger root extract and 100mcg black pepper extract per two-gummy serving, in a peach-flavored gummy. It's a daily wellness gummy, not a nausea remedy, and it's not intended for use during pregnancy without your provider's okay.
Frequently asked questions
How much ginger should I take for nausea?
It depends on the reason for your nausea. For pregnancy, ask your OB, since guidance varies[3][4]. Don't assume a general wellness product delivers a nausea-relief dose.
Does ginger help with motion sickness?
Studies generally haven't shown ginger to be effective for motion sickness[1].
Is ginger safe during pregnancy?
ACOG lists ginger among options for pregnancy nausea[3], while MSK advises against ginger supplements in pregnancy[4]. Talk to your provider.
Can ginger cause heartburn?
Yes. Heartburn and abdominal discomfort are known side effects[1].
Is ginger tea as good as a supplement?
They're different amounts and forms, so study results don't transfer directly from one to the other. Ginger tea is a reasonable food-level way to enjoy it.
Sources
- National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health, National Institutes of Health. Ginger: Usefulness and Safety. Updated February 2025. nccih.nih.gov/health/ginger
- Viljoen E, Visser J, Koen N, Musekiwa A. A systematic review and meta-analysis of the effect and safety of ginger in the treatment of pregnancy-associated nausea and vomiting. Nutr J. 2014;13:20. doi:10.1186/1475-2891-13-20
- American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. ACOG Practice Bulletin No. 189: Nausea and vomiting of pregnancy. Obstet Gynecol. 2018;131(1):e15-e30. doi:10.1097/AOG.0000000000002456
- Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center. About Herbs: Ginger. Updated June 2, 2022. mskcc.org
- National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health, National Institutes of Health. Turmeric: Usefulness and Safety. Updated April 2025. nccih.nih.gov/health/turmeric
About the Vita Globe Editorial Team
The Vita Globe Editorial Team researches and writes our wellness content, working from peer-reviewed research, systematic reviews and guidance from bodies such as the NIH and the FDA. We cite our sources inline and update articles when the evidence changes.
These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice. Talk to your healthcare provider before starting any new supplement, particularly if you are pregnant, nursing, taking medication, or caring for a child.
