Shell Ginger
Alpinia zerumbet
Alpinia zerumbet, commonly known as shell gingers or shell ginger lilies, is a plant native to Southeast Asia and widely cultivated in tropical regions. Traditionally, it has not been extensively used for medicinal purposes across various cultures. Scientific research on its traditional uses is limited. Studies have shown that Alpinia zerumbet extract can be utilized in the synthesis of AuPd bimetallic nanoparticles with enhanced catalytic activity for reducing nitro compounds, indicating potential applications in chemical synthesis. However, clinical trials suggest that Ziclague® (Alpinia zerumbet oil) did not significantly improve gait velocity in patients with hereditary spastic paraplegia compared to a placebo. Additionally, A. zerumbet rhizomes oil demonstrated stronger anticholinesterase activity than H. coronarium rhizomes and showed partial normalization of bladder contraction dynamics in mice exposed to chronic stress without significant transcriptional changes. Safety data for Alpinia zerumbet is currently limited, with no major issues recorded. There are also no reported drug interactions associated with this plant.
- Best evidence
- B
- Cautions
- —
Informational only. Traditional use does not mean proven effectiveness. Evidence and safety vary — check the cited sources.
What the science says
- The study found that Alpinia zerumbet extract can be used to synthesize AuPd bimetallic nanoparticles with enhanced catalytic activity for reducing nitro compounds.
- Ziclague® (Alpinia zerumbet oil) did not significantly improve gait velocity in patients with hereditary spastic paraplegia compared to placebo.
- A. zerumbet rhizomes oil exhibited stronger anticholinesterase activity compared to H. coronarium rhizomes.
- Odor-specific olfactory stimulation from Alpinia zerumbet showed partial normalization of bladder contraction dynamics in mice exposed to chronic stress, without broad transcriptional changes.
Frequently asked questions
What is Shell Ginger?
Shell Ginger (Alpinia zerumbet) is a plant documented in FolkKB's traditional-medicine reference, drawn from sourced literature and cross-checked against the evidence.
What does the scientific evidence say about Shell Ginger?
4 sourced findings are recorded for Shell Ginger; the strongest carries evidence grade B. For example: The study found that Alpinia zerumbet extract can be used to synthesize AuPd bimetallic nanoparticles with enhanced catalytic activity for reducing nitro compounds.
How strong is the evidence for Shell Ginger?
The strongest finding for Shell Ginger carries evidence grade B — moderate evidence. Grades run A (strongest) to D (preliminary or traditional).
Is Shell Ginger safe? What are the side effects?
No major safety issues are recorded for Shell Ginger in our sources, but the data may be incomplete. Consult a qualified professional before use.
Does Shell Ginger interact with medications?
No drug interactions are recorded for Shell Ginger in our sources. This does not rule them out — check with a pharmacist.
What are the common names of Shell Ginger?
Shell Ginger is also known as: Альпиния церумбет, A tous maux.
Is Shell Ginger a proven treatment?
No. FolkKB is informational only. Traditional use and early findings are not proof of efficacy or safety — consult a qualified professional and never self-treat.
Sources
- T2 Ziclague® (Alpinia Zerumbet oil) in patients with hereditary spastic paraplegia - the randomized controlled ZISPAST trial. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Eco-Friendly Synthesis of AuPd Bimetallic Nanoparticles Using Alpinia zerumbet for Efficient Reduction of Nitro Compounds. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Odor-specific olfactory stimulation is associated with selective transcriptional changes and partial improvement of stress-evoked bladder overactivity in mice. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Comparative analysis of volatile composition and anticholinesterase activity of Egyptian Hedychium coronarium and Alpinia zerumbet using chemometric assessment of extraction techniques. literature abstract metadata