Ginger Root
Backed by Dr. Lisa Fiorenza and Dr. Katie Woodley
BENEFITS
Known for its nausea-relieving properties, ginger is an excellent natural remedy to ease your dog’s upset stomach. A small amount of ginger can aid in digestion by breaking down food, relieving gas pains, and calming an upset stomach by stimulating saliva, bile, and gastric juice production. It can be helpful in reducing motion sickness when used before car rides. It’s also very supportive for most cancer patients because of its actions on the gut and other organ systems.
Some of its lesser known uses include antimicrobial (may kill bacteria, viruses, and parasites like Giardia), fever reduction, cough and cold support, heart and blood flow support, liver support, joint inflammation/pain reduction, and stabilization of blood sugar and fats. It can also help improve the function of other herbs, and reduce side effects of other herbs.
Serving Size
XS dogs
(< 10 lbs)
⅛ tsp freshly ground ginger*
S dogs
(10 - 20 lbs)
¼ tsp freshly ground ginger*
M dogs
(21 - 50 lbs)
¼ tsp freshly ground ginger*
L dogs
(51 - 90 lbs)
½ tsp freshly ground ginger*
XL dogs
(> 90 lbs)
1 tsp freshly ground ginger*
*Divide the total above serving size into 2–3 servings per day.
FREQUENCY
Ginger is safe to use as needed in most dogs. Avoid using it in dogs with gallstones, with anticoagulant (anti-clotting) drugs, or in dogs with known clotting disorders.
HOW TO SERVE
- Remove the skin of the root with a peeler or knife to access the yellow inside.
- Finely mince or grate the yellow inside of the root.
- Mix into a yummy treat, or into your dog’s food if they’re a great eater.
- Keep in mind that ginger has a strong taste. Small doses hidden in something yummy are ideal for your dog's compliance.
- Ginger root can be frozen to maintain freshness.
IMPORTANT
Avoid using in dogs with gallstones, with anticoagulant (anti-clotting) drugs, or in dogs with known clotting disorders. Pause for one week before and after surgery to avoid excessive bleeding during and after surgery.
There is a possibility for contact dermatitis with fresh ginger. Wash your hands after handling and do not touch your eyes after handling.
arrow_rightReferences
De Bairacli Levy J. The Complete Herbal Handbook for the Dog and Cat. London: Faber and Faber; 1985
Ernst E, Pittler MH. Efficacy of ginger for nausea and vomiting: a systematic review of randomized clinical trials. BR J Anaesth 2000;84: 367-371.