Fresh Ginger — Safety & Interactions

Sheng Jiang · Rhizoma Zingiberis Recens

Contraindications

  • Strong heat syndromes or fluid dryness without cold
  • Perioperative use of concentrated ginger supplements
  • Bleeding disorders or gallstones in the context of high-dose supplement use

Cautions

  • MSK notes that concentrated ginger supplements may increase bleeding risk, especially around surgery or with anticoagulants and NSAIDs.
  • Clinical supplement data should not be assumed equivalent to small culinary or formula doses of fresh Sheng Jiang.
  • High-dose supplement use during pregnancy or lactation remains controversial; traditional culinary or formula use is not the same as concentrated extract use.

Drug Interactions

Drug Class / Substrate Mechanism Severity Source
NSAIDs such as diclofenac or ibuprofen - possible increased bleeding risk.
Anticoagulants or antiplatelet drugs - possible increased bleeding risk through platelet effects.
Hypoglycemics or insulin - possible additive glucose-lowering effect.
Tacrolimus - ginger increased plasma levels in preclinical work.
Cyclosporine - concomitant use reduced blood concentrations in vivo.

This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before using herbal medicines, especially if you take prescription medications.