Comparing Ginger Solutions: Why All Ginger Products Are Not Created Equal
When you’re feeling queasy, ginger is often the first remedy that comes to mind. And it’s not just a modern go-to—ginger has been used for thousands of years in traditional medicine across cultures. Ancient Chinese, Indian, and Middle Eastern healers prescribed it for everything from indigestion to motion sickness. In fact, in Ayurveda, it’s known as a “universal remedy".
Fast forward to today, and we also have science backing the fact that ginger can ease nausea related to motion sickness, morning sickness, chemotherapy, and even post-surgery recovery.
However, not all ginger products are effective. Some barely pack enough ginger to do anything. If you’re relying on ginger to feel better, it pays to know which forms actually work.
Let's break it down.
Freshly Brewed Ginger Tea
Freshly brewed ginger tea is one of the most reliable remedies for nausea. Simply slice a small piece of fresh ginger root—about an inch—and steep it in hot water for 5 to 10 minutes.
Fresh ginger has anti-inflammatory and anti-nausea properties that can help settle the stomach and reduce queasiness. Additionally, the warmth of the tea can have a calming effect on the digestive system.
Ginger tea is best for:
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Morning sickness
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Motion sickness
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Mild nausea after eating
Watch out for:
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Store-bought ginger teas that contain only ginger flavoring and no actual ginger root. To get the full benefits, look for teas made with real dried ginger or make your own using fresh ginger.
Ginger Ale
While ginger ale is often associated with nausea relief, most commercial brands offer little to no real benefit. Despite the name, many versions—especially those labeled “natural”—contain ginger flavoring rather than actual ginger root, extract, or juice.
In fact, the high sugar content and carbonation found in most ginger ales can worsen nausea or cause bloating in some individuals, making them less than ideal when you're feeling unwell.
Ginger ale works best when:
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You need to sip something mild once nausea has passed
Watch out for:
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Added sugars and carbonation, which may aggravate symptoms rather than relieve them
Crystallized Ginger
Crystallized—or candied—ginger does contain real ginger, which means it can offer some relief from mild nausea. However, it's also coated in sugar and typically delivers a low concentration of active ginger compounds per serving.
While it may help in a pinch, it's not the most effective option for consistent or significant symptom relief. It’s best used sparingly, especially if you're trying to manage your sugar intake.
Use crystallized ginger for:
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Mild, occasional queasiness
Watch out for:
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High sugar content
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Inconsistent potency from piece to piece
Ginger Capsules or Tablets
When formulated properly, ginger capsules can offer consistent and effective relief from various types of nausea. These standardized supplements are commonly used in clinical research and are often recommended by healthcare professionals.
Ginger capsules typically contain a concentrated dose of active compounds, making them more potent than teas or snacks. For best results, look for products that provide 250–500 mg of standardized ginger extract per serving. Do avoid options that rely solely on ground ginger root without standardization, as they may vary in potency.
Ginger capsules are best for:
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Morning sickness
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Motion sickness
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Chemotherapy-related nausea
What to watch out for:
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Low-dose formulations
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Non-standardized supplements that may not deliver consistent results
Ginger Chews & Candies
Ginger chews can offer considerable relief from nausea—if they’re made with real ginger extract and not just artificial flavoring. Unfortunately, many options on the market are high in sugar and contain minimal active ginger, which limits their effectiveness.
This is why, when considering ginger chews, it’s important to choose a product that’s thoughtfully formulated with quality ingredients—such as the Anti-Na chews. Made with real ginger and natural ingredients, these chews are not only effective, but also taste great and are easy to carry wherever you go. Keep a few in your bag, desk, or car for whenever nausea strikes.
Chews are best for:
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Mild nausea
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Travel, commuting, or situations where portability is key
What to watch out for:
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High sugar content
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Products that don’t list real ginger as a primary ingredient
Ginger Sips
If you struggle with swallowing pills or want something more hydrating than chews or capsules, ginger sips offer a refreshing alternative. These are powdered drink mixes designed to dissolve in water—ideal for when you want fast, stomach-soothing relief with added comfort.
One standout example is Anti-Na SIPS, a thoughtfully formulated ginger drink mix designed to calm nausea and help restore energy. Unlike ginger ale or overly sweet drinks, SIPS uses a clinical dose of 2 grams of standardized D-SOLV® ginger powder (with 3% gingerols), paired with Bioenergy Ribose®, a compound known to help replenish cellular energy lost during illness or stress.
It’s especially helpful when nausea hits alongside fatigue—like during travel, morning sickness, or after medical treatments. The lemon-honey flavor is easy to tolerate, even when nothing else sounds appealing.
Anti-Na® SIPS are best for:
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Morning sickness, motion sickness, altitude sickness, post-exercise nausea, and general stomach discomfort
Is Ginger Safe for You?
Most people generally tolerate ginger well, especially when used in food or standard supplement doses. The root contains powerful natural compounds called gingerols and shogaols that interact with serotonin receptors in your gut, helping to calm the digestive system and reduce the nerve signals that trigger nausea.
Ginger is even recommended during pregnancy for mild to moderate nausea. However, like any remedy, it’s best to use it mindfully. High doses could potentially cause heartburn, stomach upset, or interact with blood thinners.
If you're pregnant, taking medication, or managing a medical condition, it’s a good idea to check with your doctor before using ginger supplements regularly. And always stick to recommended dosages. Remember, more isn’t always better.
Final Thoughts
Ginger’s reputation as a natural remedy for nausea is well-deserved, but its effectiveness depends entirely on how it's delivered.
Whether you prefer sipping tea, swallowing a capsule, or reaching for a chew, the key is to choose products made with real, high-quality ginger, not just flavoring. Only then can you truly experience the calming, therapeutic benefits ginger has to offer.
And if convenience is a priority, opt for thoughtfully crafted options like Anti-Na—portable, effective, and made with real ginger you can trust.
Sources:
https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/ginger-for-nausea
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4818021/
https://www.bjanaesthesia.org/article/S0007-0912(17)38837-2/pdf
https://www.ayurvedacollege.com/blog/ayurveda-ginger-universal-medicine/
https://www.medicinenet.com/how_do_you_use_ginger_for_nausea/article.htm
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25912592/
https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/wellness-and-prevention/ginger-benefits
Ready to find relief based on your specific nausea triggers? Explore our complete collection of natural nausea solutions or dive deeper into our Natural Nausea Relief Guide for comprehensive strategies.
Note: This information is educational and should not replace professional medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement regimen, especially if you are pregnant, nursing, taking medications, or have existing health conditions. We're nausea experts, not doctors—though we do share their dislike of people throwing up.)