Bitter ginger
Zingiber zerumbet
Zingiber zerumbet, commonly known as ginger lily or umbrella palm, is a plant native to Southeast Asia and widely cultivated in tropical regions. Traditionally, its use has not been extensively documented; however, it has been employed in some folk remedies for various ailments. Scientific evidence suggests potential benefits such as anti-inflammatory effects through modulation of MAPK/NF-κB, Akt, and STAT pathways, which may be useful in managing atopic dermatitis symptoms. Additionally, the plant shows promise in antifibrotic activity by regulating TGF-β1 and TNF/NF-κB signaling, potentially beneficial for pulmonary fibrosis. Zerumbone, a compound from this plant, also exhibits cytotoxic effects on human melanoma cells both in vitro and in vivo. The complete plastome of Zingiber ottensii has been characterized, confirming its close phylogenetic relationship to Zingiber zerumbet, but no specific safety concerns or known drug interactions have been reported for the plant itself.
- 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
- Zerumbone from Zingiber zerumbet modulates MAPK/NF-κB, Akt, and STAT pathways to reduce inflammation and improve skin barrier function in atopic dermatitis models.
- Zingiber zerumbet rhizome extract exhibits potent antifibrotic activity by regulating TGF-β1 and TNF/NF-κB signaling in preclinical models of pulmonary fibrosis.
- The complete plastome of Zingiber ottensii was characterized, confirming its phylogenetic relationship to Zingiber zerumbet.
- Zerumbone induced autophagic cell death in human melanoma cells through ROS mediation, both in vitro and in vivo.
Frequently asked questions
What is Bitter ginger?
Bitter ginger (Zingiber 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 Bitter ginger?
4 sourced findings are recorded for Bitter ginger; the strongest carries evidence grade D. For example: Zerumbone from Zingiber zerumbet modulates MAPK/NF-κB, Akt, and STAT pathways to reduce inflammation and improve skin barrier function in atopic dermatitis models.
How strong is the evidence for Bitter ginger?
The strongest finding for Bitter ginger carries evidence grade D — preliminary or traditional. Grades run A (strongest) to D (preliminary or traditional).
Is Bitter ginger safe? What are the side effects?
No major safety issues are recorded for Bitter ginger in our sources, but the data may be incomplete. Consult a qualified professional before use.
Does Bitter ginger interact with medications?
No drug interactions are recorded for Bitter ginger in our sources. This does not rule them out — check with a pharmacist.
What are the common names of Bitter ginger?
Bitter ginger is also known as: Имбирь зерумбет, Gingembre cône-de-pin.
Is Bitter 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 The complete plastome and phylogenetic analysis of Zingiber ottensii Valeton. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Zingiber zerumbet rhizome attenuates bleomycin-induced pulmonary fibrosis by regulating TGF-β1 and TNF/NF-κB signaling to inhibit epithelial-mesenchymal transition and fibroblast activation. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Zerumbone from Zingiber zerumbet (L.) Roscoe ex Sm. ameliorates atopic dermatitis by regulating the MAP kinase/NF-κB, Akt, and STAT pathways. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Zerumbone Induced ROS-Mediated Autophagic Cell Death in Human Melanoma Cells: An In Vitro and In Vivo Study. literature abstract metadata