Emerging Trends in the Pharmacological and Therapeutic Potential of Ginger: From Traditional Medicine to Nanotechnological Innovations.

INTRODUCTION

Ginger (Zingiber officinale) has a long history as a culinary and medicinal plant, widely recognized in traditional medicine for the treatment of various diseases. In recent years, advances in nanotechnology have provided innovative delivery systems, enhancing ginger's bioavailability and efficacy in modern therapeutic applications. This study aims to explore ginger's pharmacological and therapeutic potential, tracing its evolution from traditional medicine to its integration into modern nanotechnological innovations. By analysing emerging trends, this study seeks to highlight ginger's diverse bioactivities and its potential to enhance therapeutic efficacy through advanced delivery systems.

METHODS

Literature was searched from various databases, mainly from 1984 to 2024, such as Scopus, Web of Science, Google Scholar, PubMed and Science Direct using keywords including "Ginger", "Zingiber officinale", "Gingerols", "Shogaols", "Paradols" and "Nanocarriers" and their combination. This study examines the therapeutic potential of ginger by reviewing its traditional applications and exploring nanotechnological innovations in ginger-based drug delivery systems. Nanoemulsions, liposomes, and nanoparticles were assessed for their ability to improve the stability, bioavailability, and targeted delivery of ginger's bioactive compounds.

RESULTS

Ginger's bioactive constituents, including gingerols, shogaols, and paradols, exhibited significant pharmacological activities, including anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, anticancer, antidiabetic, and gastroprotective effects. Nano-based delivery systems have shown improved stability, controlled release, and targeted delivery, thereby maximising therapeutic efficacy in treating various diseases.

CONCLUSION

Ginger holds significant therapeutic promise in both traditional and modern medicine, mainly when used with nanotechnology for improved bioavailability and efficacy. These findings support the development of ginger-based treatments as complementary therapies in holistic healthcare. Further research and clinical trials are essential to validate these applications and optimize dosages for clinical use.