Chinese Ginger

Boesenbergia rotunda

Boesenbergia rotunda, commonly known as Chinese ginger or fingerroot, is a plant traditionally used in Asian medicine, particularly in China and Southeast Asia. It has been employed for various ailments such as digestive issues and respiratory problems, though specific uses vary across different traditions. Scientific evidence suggests that compounds from Boesenbergia rotunda, including 6-shogaol, may have potential anti-cancer effects by suppressing c-Myc protein expression, inducing apoptosis, and causing cell cycle arrest in human B-cell lymphoma cells. Additionally, computational studies indicate significant binding affinity of three phytochemicals from the plant to SARS-CoV-2 PLpro, suggesting possible antiviral activity. The fermentation of its extracts with multi-strain probiotics and black sesame extract has shown enhanced enzyme inhibition and antioxidant properties, indicating potential benefits for gut health and overall wellness. Safety data is currently limited but does not indicate any major issues. There are no recorded drug interactions associated with Boesenbergia rotunda, though further research is needed to fully understand its safety profile and potential interactions in broader contexts.

At a glance
Best evidence
D
Cautions

Informational only. Traditional use does not mean proven effectiveness. Evidence and safety vary — check the cited sources.

What the science says

  • 6-Shogaol from ginger significantly suppressed c-Myc protein expression, induced apoptosis, and caused cell cycle arrest in human B-cell lymphoma cells. D PMID
  • The study found that three phytochemicals from Boesenbergia rotunda showed significant binding affinity to SARS-CoV-2 PLpro through computational analysis. D PMID
  • Fermentation of herbal extracts with multi-strain probiotics and black sesame extract enhanced probiotic viability and biofunctional properties, including enzyme inhibition and antioxidant effects. D PMID
  • The Boesenbergia rotunda extract inhibited biofilm formation and reduced tissue invasion by altering biomolecule composition and metabolomics in some Candida albicans isolates. D PMID

Frequently asked questions

What is Chinese Ginger?

Chinese Ginger (Boesenbergia rotunda) 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 Chinese Ginger?

4 sourced findings are recorded for Chinese Ginger; the strongest carries evidence grade D. For example: 6-Shogaol from ginger significantly suppressed c-Myc protein expression, induced apoptosis, and caused cell cycle arrest in human B-cell lymphoma cells.

How strong is the evidence for Chinese Ginger?

The strongest finding for Chinese Ginger carries evidence grade D — preliminary or traditional. Grades run A (strongest) to D (preliminary or traditional).

Is Chinese Ginger safe? What are the side effects?

No major safety issues are recorded for Chinese Ginger in our sources, but the data may be incomplete. Consult a qualified professional before use.

Does Chinese Ginger interact with medications?

No drug interactions are recorded for Chinese Ginger in our sources. This does not rule them out — check with a pharmacist.

Is Chinese 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

  1. T2 Boesenbergia rotunda extract decreases biofilm formation and host-pathogen interaction of bloodstream-isolated Candida albicans by interfering with biomolecule composition and metabolomics adaptation. literature abstract metadata
  2. T2 Augmenting turmeric, galingale, gotu kola extracts, and black sesame as prebiotics by probiotics. literature abstract metadata
  3. T2 Boesenbergia rotunda-Derived Phytochemicals as Potent Inhibitors of SARS-CoV-2 Papain-Like Protease (PLpro): Insights From Molecular Docking and Dynamic Simulation. literature abstract metadata
  4. T2 6-Shogaol from Zingiber officinale Induces Cell Cycle Arrest via Suppression of c-Myc Protein Expression and Promotes Apoptosis in Human B-Cell Lymphoma. literature abstract metadata