Kids Babies Tum Ease by Eclectic Institute

Aging skin. Applying dill seed extract to the skin may improve some measures of skin wrinkles, but the overall clinical benefit is small. One clinical study in women with age-related wrinkles around the eyes shows that applying 1% dill seed extract to the face twice daily for 3 months improves skin elasticity and firmness by up to 30%, as well as average wrinkle size by approximately 20%, compared with a placebo formulation. However, the dill formulation does not appear to reduce the number of wrinkles or total wrinkle size (99908).
Dysmenorrhea. Preliminary clinical research shows that taking dill seed powder 3 grams in two divided doses daily for 3 days, beginning at the onset of pain and repeated over three consecutive menstrual cycles, reduces pain associated with dysmenorrhea by a moderate to large amount when compared with baseline. However, it does not improve other menstrual symptoms (101994). The validity of this finding is limited by the lack of a comparator group.
Hyperlipidemia. Preliminary clinical research in hyperlipidemic patients with coronary artery disease shows that taking dill 650 mg orally twice daily for 6 weeks in addition to following a cholesterol-lowering diet does not improve levels of total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol, or triglycerides (47790). In patients with type 2 diabetes, taking dill leaf powder 3 grams daily for 8 weeks lowers LDL cholesterol and total cholesterol, and increases HDL cholesterol when compared with placebo, but does not affect triglycerides (112061). In a meta-analysis of 7 trials, dill significantly reduced LDL cholesterol in a subgroup of patients over 50 years of age who took doses above 1000 mg daily for at least 8 weeks. The analysis did not find any effect on triglycerides, total cholesterol, or high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol (112062).
Labor pain. Preliminary clinical research shows that consuming boiled and filtered dill seeds 10 grams once at the beginning of the active labor phase does not reduce labor pain when compared with routine care. However, the duration of each stage of labor was reduced by up to 50% and there was improvement in dilation and effacement (99907). When compared with oxytocin 10 IU at the beginning of the active phase of labor, taking boiled dill seeds 10 grams reduces the duration of the first stage of labor, but not the second or third stages. It also decreases the occurrence of severe anxiety, but does not improve labor pain, when compared with oxytocin (101993). More evidence is needed to rate dill for these uses.

FENNEL

POSSIBLY EFFECTIVE

Dysmenorrhea. Taking fennel oil or extract by mouth may reduce pain in patients with primary dysmenorrhea. This benefit may be similar to ibuprofen or mefenamic acid. Details: Two separate meta-analyses in patients with primary dysmenorrhea show that taking fennel oil or fennel extract for 1-6 menstrual cycles reduces dysmenorrhea pain when compared with placebo. Improvement in pain was similar when compared with ibuprofen or mefenamic acid. In the included studies, doses of fennel oil ranged from 3-30 drops every 4-8 hours, and doses of fennel extract ranged from 30-230 mg daily (104196,108972). However, most studies included in these meta-analyses were small and low-quality, and all studies were conducted in Iran. Higher quality studies in other geographic locations are needed to confirm these findings.

Anxiety. Although there has been interest in using oral fennel for anxiety, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of fennel for this purpose.
Bronchitis. Although there has been interest in using oral fennel for bronchitis, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of fennel for this purpose.
Cancer. Although there has been interest in using oral fennel for cancer prevention, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of fennel for this purpose.
Cholera. Although there has been interest in using oral fennel for cholera, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of fennel for this purpose.
Colic. Small clinical studies suggest that oral fennel may reduce crying time in infants with colic. However, most research to date has evaluated fennel in combination with other ingredients. Details: A meta-analysis of three small clinical studies shows that giving fennel to infants with colic can reduce crying time by about 72 minutes daily when compared with placebo (97497). However, the studies included in this meta-analysis were at medium to high risk of bias, and the placebo response rate was high in all of the included studies. Additionally, two of the three studies evaluated combination products (16735,19715,49428). In the one study that used fennel alone, administering 5-20 mL of fennel seed oil 0.1% emulsion daily for one week led to colic relief in 65% of infants, compared with 24% of infants receiving placebo (49428). The other studies evaluated fennel in combination with lemon balm and German chamomile (ColiMil) or in combination with chamomile, vervain, licorice, and lemon balm (Calma-Bebi, Bonomelli). These combination products produced a response in 57% to 85% of infants, compared with 26% to 49% of infants receiving placebo (16735,19715).
Constipation. Oral fennel has only been evaluated in combination with other ingredients; its effect when used alone is unclear. Details: One small crossover trial in patients with constipation shows that drinking an herbal tea containing 3 grams of a combination of fennel, anise, elderberry, and senna daily for 5 days can decrease colonic transit time, increase the number of daily evacuations, and improve the perception of bowel function when compared with placebo (49494). Another small clinical study in elderly patients with constipation shows that drinking a specific tea (Smooth Move, Traditional Medicinals) containing fennel, senna, licorice, orange peel, cassia cinnamon, coriander, and ginger for 28 days can increase the number of bowel movements when compared to baseline (46196). The validity of this finding is limited by the lack of a comparator group. Additionally, a small clinical study in patients aged 60-65 years with functional constipation shows that taking a traditional Iranian combination product containing 5 grams each of fennel seed and rose flower, dissolved in water twice daily before meals for 4 weeks, improves constipation severity and stool consistency when compared with polyethylene glycol 10 grams. Improvements in constipation severity persisted in both groups 4 weeks after treatment completion (108973). However, polyethylene glycol is usually taken at a higher dose of 17 grams daily, limiting the validity of these findings.
Cough. Although there has been interest in using oral fennel for cough, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of fennel for this purpose.
Dementia. Although there has been interest in using oral fennel for dementia, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of fennel for this purpose.
Diabetes. Although there has been interest in using oral fennel for diabetes, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of fennel for this purpose.
Dyspepsia. Although there has been interest in using oral fennel for dyspepsia, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of fennel for this purpose.
Flatulence. Although there has been interest in using oral fennel for flatulence, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of fennel for this purpose.
Hirsutism. It is unclear if topical fennel is beneficial in patients with hirsutism. Details: A small clinical study in females with male pattern body hair due to unknown causes shows that applying a fennel 2% cream twice daily for 12 weeks can reduce hair diameter by approximately 19% when compared with placebo (49429).
Insomnia. Although there has been interest in using oral fennel for insomnia, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of fennel for this purpose.
Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Oral fennel has only been evaluated in combination with other ingredients; its effect when used alone is unclear. Details: A small clinical trial in adults with either diarrhea- or constipation-predominant IBS shows that taking two capsules containing fennel essential oil 25 mg and curcumin 42 mg per capsule (CU-FEO, Alfa Wassermann S.p.A.) twice daily for 30 days improves overall ratings of abdominal pain, abdominal distention, and quality of life by 24% when compared with placebo (97422).
Lactation. Although there has been interest in using oral fennel to stimulate breastmilk production, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of fennel for this purpose.
Menopausal symptoms. Small clinical studies suggest that oral fennel oil or fennel seed powder may modestly improve menopausal symptoms. Details: One small clinical trial in adults with medium severity menopausal symptoms shows that taking fennel essential oil 60 mg daily for 8 weeks improves scores on the Menopause Rating Scale when compared with a sunflower oil placebo (97498). Another small clinical study in postmenopausal adults shows that taking fennel seed powder 2 grams daily for 8 weeks improves scores on the Kupperman Menopausal Index when compared with placebo (104198). Fennel has also been evaluated in combination with other ingredients. One small clinical study shows that taking a combination of fennel 120 mg, chamomile 1000 mg, and saffron 60 mg daily for 12 weeks reduces physical, psychological, and urogenital symptom scores on the Menopause Rating Scale when compared with placebo or lower doses of the combination (103628). Additionally, a moderate-sized clinical study in postmenopausal women conducted in Iran shows that taking combined fennel and valerian extract 500 mg twice daily for 8 weeks modestly improves self-reported scores for frequency and severity of hot flashes but does not improve sleep quality or duration of hot flashes when compared with placebo (112369). However, it is unclear if these benefits are due to fennel, other ingredients, or the combination.
Nausea and vomiting. Although there has been interest in using oral fennel for nausea and vomiting, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of fennel for this purpose.
Nocturnal enuresis. Although there has been interest in using oral fennel for nocturnal enuresis, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of fennel for this purpose.
Osteoarthritis. It is unclear if oral fennel extract is beneficial in patients with knee osteoarthritis. Details: A small clinical trial in females with osteoarthritis of the knee shows that taking powdered fennel extract 800 mg daily for 2 weeks reduces pain and disability scores, but not stiffness, when compared with placebo (104199).
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). It is unclear if oral fennel is beneficial in patients with PCOS. Details: A small clinical study in patients with PCOS shows that taking two fennel capsules, containing anethole 21-27 mg per capsule, daily along with a hypocaloric standard diet or a hypocaloric high-protein diet for 3 months does not reduce body weight or improve androgenic parameters such as testosterone levels, sex hormone-binding globulin levels, or free androgen index, when compared with these diets plus placebo (104197). Fennel has also been evaluated in combination with other ingredients. A clinical study in patients with oligomenorrhea due to PCOS shows that taking a traditional combination product (Aslagh) containing equivalent amounts of essential oils of fennel, wild carrot seeds, and Vitex agnus-castus fruit for 3 months, either alone or in combination with metformin, improves rates of menstrual bleeding and menstrual cyclicity similarly to metformin alone. All three groups experienced a significant improvement from baseline. Aslagh was taken as two, 500-mg capsules twice daily, except during menses; metformin was titrated over one week to a dose of 500 mg three times daily (108974). Additionally, a moderate-sized clinical study in patients with PCOS shows that taking fennel 60 mg and Elwendia persica 25 mg twice daily for 4 months modestly improves number of ovarian follicles and body mass index when compared with placebo; however, when compared to baseline, the combination also improves hirsutism scores and menstrual cycle duration and interval (112370). It is unclear if these effects are due to fennel, other ingredients, or the combination.
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Although there has been interest in using oral fennel for RA, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of fennel for this purpose.
Sexual desire. It is unclear if oral fennel is beneficial for improving sexual desire. Details: A small clinical study in postmenopausal adults shows that taking fennel seed powder 2 grams daily for 8 weeks does not improve scores on the Hurlbert Index of Sexual Desire when compared with placebo (104198).
Sunburn. It is unclear if topical fennel emulsion is beneficial for preventing sunburn. Details: A small clinical study shows that applying a fennel 5% emulsion topically prior to ultraviolet (UV) exposure can reduce sunburn by 65% when compared with a control (49518).
Upper respiratory tract infection (URTI). Although there has been interest in using oral fennel for upper respiratory tract infections, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of fennel for this purpose.
Vaginal atrophy. It is unclear if intravaginal application of fennel cream is beneficial in patients with vaginal atrophy. Details: A small clinical study in postmenopausal adults shows that applying 5 grams of a fennel 5% cream to the vagina once daily for 8 weeks seems to reverse vaginal thinning, improve vaginal pH, and reduce symptoms of vaginal atrophy such as itching, dryness, and pain with intercourse when compared with placebo (92509). Patients in the fennel group also rated their sexual function to be improved when compared with those receiving placebo (97496). More evidence is needed to rate fennel for these uses.

GINGER

POSSIBLY EFFECTIVE

Dysmenorrhea. In people with dysmenorrhea, taking oral ginger seems to reduce pain. Clinical research shows that ginger might be comparable to ibuprofen or mefenamic acid. In addition, taking ginger seems to be beneficial when used as an adjunct to mefenamic acid 250 mg twice daily. Details: Clinical research in individuals at least 15 years of age shows that ginger can reduce pain from dysmenorrhea. Clinical studies show that taking ginger powder 500-2000 mg daily usually for the first 3-4 days of a menstrual cycle modestly decreases pain severity by an average of 2.3-2.7 points on a 10-point scale when compared to control groups (89889,89899,91139,91892,96255,106077). However, a meta-analysis of clinical research shows that taking ginger does not reduce pain duration when compared with placebo (106077). Clinical research also shows that ginger might be as effective as some anti-inflammatory agents. Taking a specific ginger extract (Zintoma, Goldaru) 250 mg four times daily for 3 days at the beginning of the menstrual period or until pain relief improves symptoms similarly to ibuprofen or mefenamic acid (17931,96259,106077). Also, taking a ginger extract 200 mg four times daily for 3-4 days at the beginning of pain is equally effective to taking Novafen, a combination of acetaminophen, caffeine, and ibuprofen (99444). Ginger also seems to improve pain when given as an adjunct to anti-inflammatory agents. A small clinical study in young females with dysmenorrhea shows that adding ginger (Vomigone, Dineh Co.) 500 mg daily to mefenamic acid 250 mg twice daily for 5 days further reduces pain when compared with taking mefenamic acid alone (102464).
Osteoarthritis. Most clinical research shows that taking ginger extract by mouth improves pain in some patients with osteoarthritis. Topical ginger, on the other hand, has not shown benefit for knee osteoarthritis in low quality research. Details: Meta-analyses of clinical research show that taking ginger extract 500-1000 mg daily for 3-12 weeks can modestly improve pain when compared with placebo in some patients with osteoarthritis of the knee or hip (96253,103357). However, a meta-analysis of two clinical studies shows that taking ginger extract about 500 mg daily for 6 weeks does not have an effect on function (103357). Some clinical research has also compared ginger to conventional drug treatment. In one clinical trial, there was no significant difference between ginger extract 30 mg daily and ibuprofen 400 mg three times daily for one month in patients with osteoarthritis of the hip or knee (17930). However, taking a specific ginger extract (Eurovita Extract 33; EV ext-33) orally 170 mg three times daily for 3 weeks was significantly less effective than ibuprofen 400 mg three times daily for reducing pain (7048). Since ginger is thought to take several weeks for significant benefit, this trial might not have lasted long enough. Ginger has also been compared with diclofenac. When used orally as 1500 mg daily in two divided doses, ginger is less effective than oral diclofenac 100 mg daily in two divided doses, or the combination of ginger and diclofenac, for 12 weeks (89898). Various studies have evaluated formulations containing ginger with other ingredients. These combinations have all been shown to improve osteoarthritis pain, and in some cases, functionality. Studied formulations include ginger (Eurovita Extract 35; EV ext-35) 340 mg with glucosamine (Zinaxin glucosamine, Ferrosan AS) 1000 mg daily for 4 weeks, a ginger extract with an alpinia (Alpinia galanga) extract (Eurovita Extract 77; EV ext-77) 255 mg twice daily for 6 weeks, a ginger extract with curcuminoids, and extracts of devil's claw, Boswellia serrata, and celery (Tregocel) for 36 weeks, or Ayurvedic shunthi-guduchi formulations containing ginger, Indian gooseberry, and Tinospora cordifolia, either with or without Boswellia serrata (7084,18210,89557,106078). However, it's too early to know if the effects of these combination agents are associated with ginger or other ingredients in the formulations. Topical ginger, alone or in combination with other ingredients, has also been studied for knee osteoarthritis. Although a meta-analysis of two randomized clinical trials shows no evidence of benefit of topical ginger for pain and disability when compared with placebo or standard therapy (103357), some benefits have been shown in individual preliminary studies (20340,20341,89897,96668,97537,97542). These trials have used a specific gel containing ginger and plai 4% by weight (Plygersic gel, Thailand Institute of Scientific and Technological Research) 4 grams/day in four divided doses for 6 weeks (89897), an ointment composed of ginger, cinnamon, mastic (Saghez), and sesame oil twice daily for 6 weeks (20340), or one gram of ginger extract 5% (standardized to 11.18% of 6-gingerol) in a nanostructure lipid carrier three times daily for up to 12 weeks to the affected knee (96668,97537). Some studies have used ginger essential oil in a massage oil, alone or with sweet orange essential oil or standard therapy, twice weekly for 3 or 6 weeks (20341,97542).
Pregnancy-induced nausea and vomiting. Oral ginger seems to reduce the severity of nausea and vomiting in some people during pregnancy. Ginger seems to be more effective than placebo, comparable to vitamin B6 or dimenhydrinate, and less effective than metoclopramide. Details: Although most clinical studies are small and have methodological limitations, the available research shows that ginger is more effective than placebo, and comparable to vitamin B6 or dimenhydrinate (721,1922,5343,11346,13071,16306,20312,20315,90103,91201,102462). Although ginger is comparable to dimenhydrinate for reducing symptoms of morning sickness, it seems to take about 3 days to reduce vomiting episodes compared to 1 day with dimenhydrinate (16305). In addition, clinical research shows that ginger is less effective than metoclopramide at relieving nausea and vomiting associated with pregnancy (20315). Ginger doses of 500 to 2500 mg daily, divided into two to four daily doses for 3 days to 3 weeks, have been used in clinical research (721,5343,16305,16306,20312,20315,90103,91201). The American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology (ACOG) considers ginger capsules 250 mg 4 times daily a first-line nonpharmacological treatment option for pregnancy-induced nausea based on limited evidence. However, there is no evidence that ginger reduces vomiting (111601).

POSSIBLY INEFFECTIVE

Chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting (CINV). Most clinical research shows that oral ginger does not reduce acute or delayed CINV. The effect of ginger might depend on the dose, the other antiemetics used, or the specific chemotherapy regimen. Details: Most clinical research shows that taking ginger as adjunct to adequate antiemetic therapy does not reduce DELAYED CINV when compared with antiemetic therapy alone (20316,96260,89891,96675,97538,97541,101760,102461,113616). Clinical research from meta-analyses and most individual clinical studies also show that taking ginger 0.5-3.5 grams as an adjunct to standard antiemetic therapy does not reduce the incidence or severity of ACUTE CINV when compared with antiemetic therapy alone (89891,96675,101760,102461,102466,113616). However, conflicting results exist from some individual clinical studies (20316,102466). These individual studies evaluated powdered ginger root or liquid extract of ginger root 0.5-2 grams taken in two to four divided doses daily, starting on either the day of or 3 days before chemotherapy and continuing for 3-5 days after chemotherapy initiation (20316,102466). Also, one small study shows that ginger in doses of 1 gram or less for more than 3 days reduces the likelihood of acute vomiting by 60% (101760). More research is needed to confirm the efficacy of this lower dose. Reasons for the conflicting results are unclear, but several theories have been postulated. One theory is that ginger might help reduce CINV associated with some, but not all, chemotherapy regimens. One preliminary clinical study shows that ginger 500 mg twice daily for 3 days reduces vomiting in patients receiving cyclophosphamide and doxorubicin, but not in patients also receiving 5-fluorouracil or docetaxel (96251). However, since there is limited evidence supporting this theory, additional research is needed to confirm. Another theory is that ginger helps when used with certain antiemetic drugs, but not others. For example, ginger seems to help in cases when optimal antiemetic therapy, such as 5-HT3 receptor antagonists, is not available. Small clinical studies show that ginger reduces the severity of acute nausea when compared with prochlorperazine or metoclopramide, both of which are suboptimal antiemetic therapy for CINV (89891). Another small study shows that ginger is comparable to metoclopramide for improving delayed chemotherapy-induced nausea (13244). On the other hand, several studies show that taking ginger 0.5-2 grams daily along with antiemetic therapy that includes aprepitant does NOT improve acute or delayed CINV (20318,89891,96251,96675). In fact, one study found an association between concomitant use of ginger 2 grams daily with aprepitant and worsened severity of delayed nausea. Ginger is hypothesized to decrease the absorption of aprepitant and reduce its effectiveness for delayed nausea (20318,96675). However, this effect has not been replicated, and aprepitant serum levels were not measured to confirm this hypothesis. Finally, many of the studies showing a benefit of ginger for CINV when used as an adjunct to standard antiemetic therapy are considered to be methodologically flawed (20317,96252,96677). For instance, one study using powdered ginger root 1-2 grams daily during the first three days of chemotherapy in children and adults (20317) has been criticized for inaccurately representing data (89891). Other studies of ginger 500 mg twice daily for up to 10 days used questionable methods to measure outcomes and usually did not differentiate between acute and delayed CINV (96252,96677). Ginger essential oil aromatherapy has also been evaluated. One small study shows that using two drops of ginger essential oil on an aromatherapy necklace for 2 minutes daily for 5 days, starting on the first day of chemotherapy, reduces acute nausea, but not vomiting or delayed nausea, when compared with placebo in females with breast cancer taking standard antiemetics including granisetron, dexamethasone, and metoclopramide (96256).
Exercise-induced muscle soreness. Most research shows that oral ginger in single or multiple doses does not prevent or treat exercise-induced muscle soreness. Details: Two small studies in healthy adults show that single doses of ginger supplements do not seem to reduce muscle soreness from exercise. Taking capsules of ground ginger 2 grams, 30 minutes before a 30-minute cycling bout, or 24-48 hours after eccentric exercise, does not reduce muscle pain during exercise or within one hour of ingestion when compared with placebo (17932,17934). Taking multiple doses also does not seem to help. One small study in healthy adults shows that taking capsules with ginger powder 4 grams daily for 5 days before high-intensity eccentric exercise does not reduce muscle soreness over 4 days when compared with placebo (96258). Another small study in healthy adults shows that taking capsules of heated or raw ground ginger 2 grams daily for 8 days prior to eccentric exercise, and continuing supplementation for 3 more days, might modestly reduce muscle soreness 24 hours post-exercise, but not at later time points, when compared with placebo (17933,96258). Ginger has also been tested in combination with other ingredients. One small study in healthy adults shows that taking a specific combination product (ReWin(d), Natural Origins) containing a 4:3 ratio of ginger and annatto powder, 2 grams in divided doses daily for 4 weeks before eccentric exercise and continuing for 3 days after exercise, may modestly reduce muscle pain 48 hours after exercise but not at other time points (105057). This study was funded by the supplement manufacturer.
Motion sickness. Most research shows that oral ginger does not prevent or treat motion sickness. Details: Most clinical research shows that taking ginger 500-1000 mg up to 4 hours prior to travel does not prevent motion sickness (7624,7625,20330,20331). Some patients report subjective feelings of improvement, but in many studies objective measures did not significantly improve (7400). However, one clinical trial suggests that ginger is more effective than dimenhydrinate at reducing gastrointestinal distress associated with motion sickness (20332). Another clinical study seems to show that taking ginger 1-2 grams as a single dose reduces nausea severity and increases the latency before the onset of nausea caused by simulated motion sickness when compared to baseline (20333). The validity of this finding is limited by the lack of a comparator group.

Acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). Some small clinical studies show that giving ginger with tube feeds to hospitalized patients might reduce the duration of serious sequelae from ARDS. Details: A small clinical trial in adults with ARDS shows that administering ginger extract 120 mg in three divided doses daily via nasogastric tubing for 21 days increases the number of ventilator-free days and the amount of feeding tolerated and decreases the number of intensive care unit (ICU) days when compared with placebo. However, it does not seem to improve overall mortality (20343). Also, another small clinical study shows that adding ginger extract 120 mg to tube feeds in three divided doses daily for 8-21 days improves blood oxygen levels by 13% to 20%, as well as the ability of the lungs to expand by 17%, when compared with a coconut oil placebo. The duration of mechanical ventilation and stay in the ICU also improved. However, ginger does not affect other measurements of lung function or physical organ damage in these patients (89886).
Allergic rhinitis (hay fever). It is unclear if oral ginger is beneficial in allergic rhinitis. Details: A small clinical trial shows that taking ginger extract 500 mg daily for 6 weeks is as effective as loratadine 10 mg daily for reducing nasal symptoms of allergic rhinitis (103359).
Antiretroviral-induced nausea and vomiting. Oral ginger seems to improve nausea and vomiting in patients using antiretroviral agents. Details: A small clinical study in patients with HIV shows that taking ginger 0.5 grams twice daily, 30 minutes prior to each dose of antiretroviral for 14 days, reduces the relative likelihood of nausea and vomiting by about 63% and 79%, respectively, when compared with placebo (89887).
Asthma. Although there has been interest in using oral ginger for asthma, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of ginger for this condition.
Back pain. Although there has been interest in using oral ginger for back pain, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of ginger for this condition.
Burns. Although there has been interest in using topical ginger for burns, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of ginger for this condition.
Cancer-related anorexia. It is unclear if oral ginger improves appetite in people with cancer-related anorexia. Details: A small clinical study in patients with cancer-related anorexia and cachexia shows that taking a capsule containing ginger 1650 mg daily for 14 days improves nausea, appetite, reflux, dysmotility, and other gastrointestinal symptoms when compared to baseline (102460). The validity of these findings is limited by the lack of comparator group.
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Oral ginger has only been evaluated in combination with other ingredients; its effect when used alone is unclear. Details: Clinical research shows that taking two capsules of a specific combination product (AKL1, AKL International Ltd.) containing ginkgo extract, ginger, and Picrorhiza kurroa twice daily for 8 weeks does not improve respiratory symptoms when compared with placebo in patients with COPD (89702). Another moderate-sized clinical study in adults with COPD shows that taking a combination product containing extracts of ginger, alpinia, cardamom, cinnamon, and saffron in honey 3 times daily for 8 weeks improves confidence in leaving home and the ratio of forced exploratory volume per second to forced vital capacity of the lungs (FEV1/FVC) when compared with placebo. However, the combination product does not improve most measures of respiratory function or symptoms such as cough, phlegm, chest tightness, dyspnea, reduced energy levels, sleeping disorders, or activity limitations when compared with placebo (111542). It is unclear if these effects are due to ginger, other ingredients, or the combination.
Colic. Although there has been interest in using oral ginger for colic, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of ginger for this condition.
Constipation. Although there has been interest in using oral ginger for constipation, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of ginger for this condition.
Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). It is unclear whether oral ginger is beneficial for patients with COVID-19. Details: Clinical research in adults hospitalized with asymptomatic COVID-19 infection shows that taking ginger 1.5 grams twice daily orally until hospital discharge reduces length of stay from around 8.5 days to 6 days, when compared with placebo. The strongest effect is seen in males over 60 years of age (110005). The relevance of these results is reduced by a lack of blinding, and the fact that the subjects were initially asymptomatic. The efficacy of ginger for treating COVID-19 has also been evaluated in combination with other ingredients. In adults with uncomplicated, moderate COVID-19, taking a combination of ginger, turmeric, ashwagandha, and boswellia (BV-4051, Artovid-20), 1776 mg twice daily orally for 14 days in addition to standard care and starting 48-96 hours after symptom onset, reduces the mean duration of symptoms from about 8 days to 7 days, when compared with placebo (109899). A small open-label study in adults with confirmed mild to moderate COVID-19 shows that taking ginger 1000 mg and ashwagandha 500 mg twice daily for 15 days, along with conventional therapy, leads to a 13.8-fold and 2.6-fold increase in the relative rate of clinical cure at 7 days and 15 days, respectively, when compared with conventional therapy alone. Taking this combination also appears to reduce time to recovery by around 6 days but does not improve the rate of negative COVID-19 tests, chest imaging findings, viral clearance, serum antibodies, or other measures of disease progression when compared with conventional therapy alone (112094). The validity of these findings is limited by a lack of blinding, and the study may have been inadequately powered to detect a difference between groups. Additionally, it is unclear if these effects are due to ginger, ashwagandha, or the combination.
Diabetes. Some preliminary clinical studies suggest that oral ginger might have a small beneficial effect on glycemic control in patients with type 2 diabetes or gestational diabetes. Details: Meta-analyses of several small clinical trials in adults with type 2 diabetes show that taking ginger 1200-3000 mg daily for 8-13 weeks reduces glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) by around 0.6% to 1% and fasting blood glucose by 19-21 mg/dL when compared with placebo (96680,107898). Additionally, a small clinical study in adults with diabetes on hemodialysis for end stage renal disease shows that taking ginger powder 2000 mg daily for 8 weeks reduces fasting blood glucose and measures of insulin resistance, but not serum insulin levels, when compared with placebo (111543). In patients with gestational diabetes at weeks 24-28 of pregnancy, clinical research shows that taking ginger 1500 mg daily in three divided doses for 6 weeks reduces fasting blood glucose, insulin levels, and measures of insulin resistance by a small amount when compared with placebo, with no effect on postprandial glucose levels (103358).
Diarrhea. Although there has been interest in using oral ginger for various types of diarrhea, including cholera and acute bacterial dysentery, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of ginger for these conditions.
Dry mouth. It is unclear if rinsing the mouth with ginger extract is beneficial for dry mouth. Details: In patients with dry mouth related to type 2 diabetes, clinical research shows that use of a ginger extract 25% mouthwash 20 mL three times daily for 14 days modestly reduces symptoms of dry mouth when compared with rinsing with a saline control mouthwash (106068). Although this study was indicated as being triple-blind, it is unclear how the taste of ginger was masked.
Dyspepsia. It is unclear if oral ginger is beneficial for dyspepsia. Details: In patients with dyspepsia, a small clinical trial shows that a single dose of ginger root powder 1.2 grams, taken 1 hour prior to eating, does not reduce abdominal discomfort when compared with placebo. However, it increases the rate of gastric emptying (20325).
Erectile dysfunction (ED). It is unclear if oral ginger is beneficial for erectile dysfunction. Details: Preliminary clinical research in middle-aged males with ED shows that taking two capsules of a specific combination product (Revactin, MD Concepts LLC) containing ginger root 250 mg, muira puama 250 mg, guarana 250 mg, and L-citrulline 800 mg twice daily for 3 months improves scores related to erectile function and intercourse satisfaction, but does not improve sexual desire or orgasmic function scores, when compared to baseline (103224). This study is limited by the lack of a placebo control, the use of per-protocol analysis, and a high dropout rate. In fact, 44% of patients withdrew in order to resume use of phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) inhibitors. Further, it is unclear if these effects are due to ginger, other ingredients, or the combination.
Gastroenteritis-associated nausea and vomiting. It is unclear if oral ginger is beneficial for children with gastroenteritis-associated vomiting. Details: In children aged 1-10 years with acute gastroenteritis-associated vomiting, clinical research shows that taking a single dose of ginger reduces the risk of vomiting at least once in the subsequent 8 hours by 20% when compared with placebo. The incidence of vomiting over the next 24 and 48 hours was also modestly reduced. The children were given 20 drops of ginger equivalent to 10 mg immediately, followed by every 8 hours until cessation of vomiting. All children were offered hypotonic oral rehydration solution (ORS) 30 minutes after the first dose (106076). The number of children accepting ORS, and the quantity of ORS consumed, was less in the group receiving placebo. It is unclear if this affected the outcomes of this study. Also, the incidence or severity of nausea was not investigated.
Hangover. It is unclear if oral ginger is beneficial for managing symptoms of hangover. Details: Preliminary clinical research shows that use of a decoction containing a combination of ginger 6 grams, pith of Citrus tangerine 3 grams, and brown sugar decreases symptoms of alcohol hangovers, including nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea, when compared with placebo. The decoction was taken once 5 hours prior to drinking alcohol or four times after drinking alcohol (20320).
Hyperlipidemia. Oral ginger may be modestly beneficial for some patients with hyperlipidemia. Details: A meta-analysis of preliminary clinical research in adults with and without hyperlipidemia shows that taking ginger 200-3000 mg orally daily for 2-24 weeks reduces triglyceride and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels by 12 mg/dL and 5 mg/dL, respectively, and increases high-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels by 1 mg/dL when compared with placebo (109521). However, the validity of this study is limited by high heterogeneity. A clinical study in adults with hyperlipidemia shows that taking ginger powder 1 gram three times daily for 45 days reduces triglyceride and cholesterol levels by an additional 36% and 90%, respectively, when compared with placebo (20327).
Hypertension. It is unclear if oral ginger is beneficial for lowering blood pressure. Details: A preliminary clinical study in patients with diabetes and elevated systolic blood pressure shows that drinking black tea containing ginger 3 grams three times daily for 8 weeks does not reduce blood pressure by a clinically significant amount when compared with plain black tea (96669).
Hypothyroidism. It is unclear if oral ginger is beneficial in patients with hypothyroidism. Details: A small clinical study in patients with primary hypothyroidism who are stabilized on thyroid hormone therapy shows that taking ginger powder 500 mg twice daily for 30 days improves symptoms associated with hypothyroidism, including cold intolerance, constipation, dizziness, dry skin, weight gain, and concentration and memory issues, when compared with placebo. However, ginger supplementation does not seem to improve hair loss, hearing, nail fragility, speech, or feelings of depression in these patients (107903).
Insect bite. It is unclear if topical ginger is beneficial for reducing the size of insect bites. Details: Preliminary clinical research shows that a topical application of Trikatu, which contains ginger, long pepper, and black pepper extracts with 0.074% piperine and 0.046% gingerol, does not reduce the papule size associated with mosquito bites when compared with a control compound containing the same base ingredients of camphor 2%, menthol 2%, and eucalyptus oil 4% (89893).
Intraoperative nausea and vomiting (IONV). It is unclear if oral ginger is beneficial for preventing IONV. Details: Clinical research in individuals undergoing elective C-section and receiving cimetidine and metoclopramide, shows that taking ginger 1 gram orally 30 minutes prior to anesthesia reduces the number of episodes of intraoperative nausea, but not vomiting, when compared with placebo (89890). In other clinical research in adults undergoing elective surgical procedures, adding ginger to a high calorie drink consumed pre-operatively reduces the incidence of nausea from 40% to 10%, and the incidence of vomiting from 25% to 10% when compared with the high calorie drink alone (110007). The validity of these results is unclear as only patients were blinded to the treatment group.
Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Oral ginger might reduce symptoms of IBS when used in combination with other ingredients; its effect when used alone is unclear. Details: A small clinical trial shows that taking ginger 1-2 grams daily for 28 days does not improve symptoms or the number of responders when compared with placebo (90102). However, some research shows that ginger might be beneficial in some patients when used along with other herbal ingredients. Taking a capsule containing ginger, boswellia, and yarrow three times daily for 30 days reduces the frequency and severity of abdominal pain, as well as the severity of bloating, when compared with placebo in females, but not males, with mild to moderate IBS (96673). Another clinical study shows that taking an herbal mixture containing ginger, English horsemint, and purple nut sedge tuber three times daily for 8 weeks improves IBS symptoms including abdominal pain, stool frequency, stool consistency, incomplete evacuation, and urgency, when compared to baseline; these improvements are similar to those achieved by taking mebeverine 135 mg three times daily (89900). However, it is unclear if these effects are due to ginger, other ingredients, or the combination.
Joint pain. Oral ginger has only been evaluated in combination with other ingredients; its effect when used alone is unclear. Details: Clinical research shows that taking a specific combination product (Instaflex Joint Support, Direct Digital) containing glucosamine sulfate 1500 mg, methylsufonlylmethane 500 mg, white willow bark extract 250 mg, ginger root concentrate 50 mg, Boswellia extract 125 mg, turmeric root extract 50 mg, cayenne 40 m H.U. 50 mg, and hyaluronic acid 4 mg in three divided doses daily for 8 weeks reduces joint pain severity by 37% compared to only 16% with placebo. However, it does not improve joint stiffness or function when compared with placebo (89560). It is unclear if these effects are due to ginger, other ingredients, or the combination.
Menorrhagia. It is unclear if oral ginger is beneficial for menorrhagia. Details: Preliminary clinical research in healthy adults experiencing heavy menstrual bleeding shows that taking ginger 250 mg three times daily for 4 days, starting the day prior to menstruation, and repeating for three menstrual cycles, reduces the amount of menstrual bleeding when compared with placebo (96672).
Menopausal symptoms. Although there has been interest in using oral ginger for menopausal symptoms such as insomnia, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of ginger for this purpose.
Migraine headache. Small clinical studies suggest that oral ginger may modestly reduce migraine pain severity and duration. However, taking ginger doesn't seem to PREVENT migraines. Details: Ginger does not seem to be effective for the prevention of migraines. Clinical research in patients with episodic migraine shows that taking ginger extract 200 mg three times daily for 3 months does not reduce the number of migraine attacks, the use of analgesics, or the number of days with pain, any more than taking placebo (101761). However, ginger may be beneficial for the treatment of migraine. Clinical research shows that taking ginger extract 400 mg orally in the emergency room along with intravenous ketoprofen 100 mg reduces pain over the next 2 hours when compared with ketoprofen and placebo. This combination also resulted in an overall better response with a higher likelihood of having no or mild pain with treatment (101762). Taking ginger 250 mg at the onset of a common migraine headache seems to be as effective as taking sumatriptan 50 mg for reducing headache severity within two hours of treatment (89894). Furthermore, a combination of ginger and feverfew (GelStat Migraine, GelStat Corporation; LipiGesic M, PuraMed BioScience), administered sublingually at the onset of a migraine attack, decreases the duration and intensity of migraine pain when compared with placebo (19357,22602). It is unclear if these effects are due to ginger, feverfew, or the combination. Feverfew alone has demonstrated some benefit in treating migraines.
Multiple sclerosis (MS). It is unclear if oral ginger is beneficial for MS. Details: A small clinical study in adults with MS shows that taking ginger 500 mg three times daily for 12 weeks reduces disability scores and improves physical and psychological quality of life scores when compared with placebo (111541). Another small clinical study in adults with relapsing-remitting MS shows that taking ginger 500 mg three times daily for 12 weeks reduces the frequency and severity of nausea and constipation and the severity but not frequency of bloating when compared with placebo. However, no improvement was noted in other gastrointestinal symptoms of MS including abdominal pain, anorexia, diarrhea, dysphagia, gas, or heartburn (113614).
Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). It is unclear if oral ginger is beneficial for NAFLD. Details: A small clinical study in patients with NAFLD shows that taking ginger 1000 mg twice daily for 12 weeks improves liver steatosis scores but not liver fibrosis scores when compared with placebo. Ginger also modestly improves levels of alanine aminotransferase and gamma-glutamyl transferase but not aspartate aminotransferase (113615). However, it is unclear whether any improvements are clinically significant. Another small clinical study in patients with NAFLD shows that taking ginger root 1500 mg daily for 12 weeks reduces low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol and fasting blood glucose levels, but does not affect triglycerides, high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol, insulin resistance, blood pressure, or fatty liver index, when compared with placebo (102465).
Obesity. Oral ginger has primarily been evaluated in combination with other ingredients; its effect when used alone is unclear. Details: Although some individual research disagrees (40802), a meta-analysis and most individual clinical trials show that taking ginger alone or with other ingredients does not reduce weight by a clinically significant amount when compared with placebo in overweight or obese individuals (20346,20347,96676,109521). Ginger has been taken alone or in combination with green tea and capsaicin; rhubarb, astragalus, red sage, turmeric, and gallic acid (Number Ten); or raspberry ketone (Razberi K, Integrity Nutraceuticals), caffeine, capsicum extract (Capsimax, OmniActive Health Technologies), bitter orange fruit (Advantra Z, Nutratech Inc), L-theanine, and black pepper fruit extract (Biperine, Sabinsa Corporation) (Prograde Metabolism) (20346,20347,40802,96676). Due to the various other ingredients contained in available formulations, any effect from ginger is unclear.
Parturition. It is unclear if bathing in a ginger bath is beneficial for shortening the duration of labor. Details: Preliminary clinical research shows that bathing in 228 liters of water containing 4 drops of ginger essential oil does not shorten the duration of labor when compared with a regular bath (20345).
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). It is unclear if oral ginger is beneficial for females with PCOS. Details: Preliminary clinical research in females with PCOS shows that taking ginger 500 mg three times daily orally for 8 weeks decreases body weight, body mass index, and levels of follicle stimulating hormone and luteinizing hormone, when compared with placebo. It does not affect testosterone levels (110006).
Postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV). Evidence for the use of oral ginger for preventing PONV is inconclusive and conflicting. Reasons for the conflicting findings may relate to the ginger formulation used and the outcomes measured. It is unclear if ginger aromatherapy is beneficial for PONV. Details: Some individual clinical studies, as well as a large, recent meta-analysis of the available clinical research, show that taking ginger by mouth 1 hour prior to surgery does not reduce the incidence of 24-hour PONV (3452,3453,17369,99445). Also, the meta-analysis found that, although ginger reduces the severity of PONV when measured on a visual analogue scale (VAS), it does not reduce the severity of PONV when measured on a verbal descriptive scale (VDS). Furthermore, ginger does not reduce the use of rescue antiemetic medications (99445). However, some small, individual clinical studies and a meta-analysis of older clinical research show that taking ginger by mouth prior to surgery reduces the incidence of 24-hour PONV by up to 16% to 38% (722,723,1919,13237,20336,20338,20339). In addition, large clinical trials show that the frequency and severity of PONV 2-6 hours after surgery are similar when ginger 1 gram is given orally or when medications such as metoclopramide or dexmedetomidine are given intravenously prior to undergoing anesthesia (103356,103360). However, taking ginger prior to general anesthesia, in combination with other antiemetics like dexamethasone or cimetidine and metoclopramide, does not seem to reduce nausea and vomiting when compared with the other medications alone (20337,89890). In contrast, other research shows that powdered ginger 1-2 grams 30-60 minutes before induction of anesthesia has been used in most studies showing benefit, occasionally followed by 1 gram of ginger administered two hours after surgery (722,723,13237,20336,20338,103356,103360). Ginger aromatherapy has also been evaluated for the prevention of PONV. Application of 5% ginger essential oil to the wrists of patients prior to the induction of general anesthesia seems to prevent PONV in approximately 80% of treated patients (20334). Also, use of ginger essential oil aromatherapy on a gauze pad results in nausea relief in approximately 67% of patients compared with 40% in the placebo group; however, a blend of essential oils including ginger, spearmint, peppermint, and cardamom, results in nausea relief in 82% of patients (89888).These conflicting findings may be due to differences in outcome measures and the chemical compositions of ginger preparations used in the various clinical studies. Some evidence suggests that the efficacy of ginger for preventing PONV differs based on the formulation used. A network meta-analysis of 18 studies evaluating various ginger preparations, including ginger oil, ginger powder, ginger extract, and a combination of ginger powder and antiemetics, for the prevention of PONV suggests that ginger powder and ginger oil are the most effective formulations for preventing nausea and vomiting, respectively. The analysis also shows that while no ginger formulation is superior to another for the prevention of nausea, ginger powder and ginger oil have a lower risk of postoperative vomiting when compared with ginger extract. A subgroup analysis suggests that ginger seems to be most effective in adults over 30 years of age, when administered preoperatively, and when used for gastrointestinal, hepatobiliary, obstetric, or ophthalmic surgeries (112108).
Postoperative recovery. It is unclear if oral ginger is beneficial for postoperative recovery. Details: One preliminary clinical study in adults who had a tonsillectomy shows that taking a specific ginger supplement (Solgar, Leonia) 500 mg twice daily for 7 days along with acetaminophen and antibiotics modestly improves pain and wound healing when compared with acetaminophen and antibiotics alone (96674).
Postpartum complications. It is unclear if oral ginger is beneficial in patients with postpartum pain. Details: A small clinical study in patients recovering from vaginal delivery shows that taking ginger powder 500 mg 8-hours post-delivery, followed by 250 mg every 8 hours thereafter for 24 hours, reduces postpartum pain by nearly 1 point on a 10-point rating scale when compared with placebo (107904). It is unclear if this improvement would be considered clinically relevant.
Radiation-induced nausea and vomiting. It is unclear if oral ginger is beneficial in patients with radiation-induced nausea and vomiting. Details: A very small study in adults with cervical cancer undergoing treatment with cisplatin and radiotherapy shows that taking ginger 250-500 mg twice daily for 6 weeks in addition to standard antiemetic therapy does not reduce acute or delayed nausea and vomiting when compared with antiemetic therapy alone (113616).
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA). One small clinical study suggests that oral ginger may improve some symptoms of RA. Details: Preliminary clinical research in adults with RA shows that taking ginger powder 1500 mg daily for 12 weeks improves disease activity on the Disease Activity Score-28 when compared with placebo (100697).
Smoking cessation. Oral ginger has only been evaluated in combination with other ingredients; its effect when used alone is unclear. Details: A moderate-sized clinical study in adults with a history of smoking 5 or more cigarettes daily for at least 3 years shows that taking a specific combination product containing ginger 25 mg, turmeric, ashwagandha, Indian gooseberry, tribulus, bacopa, Albizia lebbeck, licorice, clove, cowhage, holy basil, and turmeric (Smotect, Smotect India) daily for 3 months reduces the number of cigarettes smoked by approximately 3 per day when compared with placebo. This product also reduces levels of alveolar carbon monoxide and carboxyhemoglobin but does not improve lung capacity (112115). However, only data from patients who completed treatment were analyzed, which limits the validity of this study. It is also unclear if these effects are due to ginger, other ingredients, or the combination.
Swallowing dysfunction. The effects of oral ginger for treating swallowing dysfunction are inconclusive. Reasons for the conflicting findings may relate to the route of administration or the number of treatments provided. Details: Clinical research shows that applying a spray containing ginger and clematix root (Tongyan) to the oropharynx for 28 days is more effective than placebo at treating grade 2 or 3 dysphagia in stroke victims. However, there does not seem to be a beneficial effect in patients with grade 1 dysphagia (20342). Other clinical research in elderly patients with dysphagia shows that taking a single dose of ginger 2 mg orally does not improve swallowing but increases saliva (96671). It is possible that a single dose of ginger is not enough to improve swallowing function.
Toxin-induced liver damage. Oral ginger might help to prevent liver damage in patients using antimycobacterial drugs. Details: Preliminary clinical research shows that a specific ginger supplement (Zintoma, Goldaru) 500 mg taken 30 minutes prior to antimycobacterial drugs daily for 4 weeks reduces the percentage of patients experiencing an increase in liver function enzymes to greater than five times the upper limit of normal by 54% when compared with placebo. Antimycobacterial drugs used for tuberculosis in the study included isoniazid 5 mg/kg, rifampin 10 mg/kg, ethambutol 15 mg/kg, and pyrazinamide 25 mg/kg daily (96670).
Traumatic brain injury (TBI). Oral ginger has only been evaluated in combination with other ingredients; its effect when used alone is unclear. Details: Preliminary research in young adults with subjective memory dysfunction associated with mild TBI, shows that taking a combination of ginger 36 mg and boswellia 360 mg (Memoral) every 8 hours orally for one month improves scores for some, but not all, parameters on an auditory-visual learning test performed at one and three months, when compared with placebo. Total learning scores increased by about 7.5 points with the ginger combination product, compared with 4 points for placebo (110132). It is unclear if these effects are due to ginger, boswellia, or the combination.
Ulcerative colitis. It is unclear if oral ginger is beneficial for improving symptoms of ulcerative colitis. Details: Preliminary clinical research in adults with ulcerative colitis shows that taking ginger powder 1000 mg twice daily for 12 weeks improves disease activity as measured by the Simple Clinical Colitis Activity Index Questionnaire when compared with taking placebo. However, taking ginger did not improve quality of life, stool frequency, bowel distress, or flatulence when compared with placebo (100694). It is possible that this study was not adequately powered to detect a difference in these secondary outcomes.
Upper respiratory tract infection (URTI). Although there has been interest in using oral ginger for various upper respiratory tract infections, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of ginger for this condition.
Vertigo. It is unclear if oral ginger is beneficial for improving symptoms of vertigo. Details: A small clinical study shows that taking 1 gram of ginger orally as a single dose prior to stimulated vertigo seems to reduce symptoms of vertigo, including nausea, when compared with placebo. However, it does not seem to reduce nystagmus (7623). More evidence is needed to rate ginger for these uses.

LIKELY EFFECTIVE

Dyspepsia. Over-the-counter oral antacid products containing sodium bicarbonate are considered effective by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Details: Over-the-counter oral antacid products containing sodium bicarbonate are considered effective by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) when taken for up to 2 weeks at a maximum daily dosage of 200 mEq sodium and 200 mEq bicarbonate by patients up to 60 years old and when taken at a maximum daily dosage of 100 mEq sodium and 100 mEq bicarbonate by patients over 60 years old (90912).

POSSIBLY EFFECTIVE

Athletic performance. Oral sodium bicarbonate seems to improve athletic performance in most populations. It is unclear if topical or intravenous sodium bicarbonate is beneficial for athletic performance. Details: Although conflicting research exists, oral sodium bicarbonate seems to improve athletic performance in males and females. This conclusion is the position of the International Society of Sports Nutrition (ISSN) based on a comprehensive review of the literature (106250). The greatest evidence of benefit, with the lowest risk of adverse effects, is shown for single-dose protocols using 300 mg/kg 60-180 minutes before exercise, or protocols involving intakes of 100-200 mg/kg 2-3 times daily for 3-7 days, for a total daily dose of 400-500 mg/kg. Generally, increasing the dose of sodium bicarbonate above 300 mg/kg does not improve athletic performance and may increase the severity of gastrointestinal adverse effects (25706,104850,106250). Multiple meta-analyses of clinical research in male athletes and non-athletes shows that acute doses of oral sodium bicarbonate, taken as 200-400 mg/kg 40-120 minutes prior to exercise, improves mean performance on sprint exercises by 2% to 16% when compared with controls (25706,104847). Another meta-analysis shows that oral or intravenous sodium bicarbonate 100-400 mg/kg, taken within 3 hours of exercise, modestly improves exercise performance, total work, performance time, and power, and increases time to exhaustion when compared with placebo (25707). Although the majority of research has been conducted in males, most available evidence also supports the ergogenic effects of sodium bicarbonate in females (25706,106250,106252). In general, the ergogenic benefits of sodium bicarbonate have been shown in muscular endurance-type activities, as well as high-intensity activities, such as cycling and running, and are especially relevant for single exercise sessions lasting 30 seconds to 12 minutes or for repeated exercise measures (106250). One meta-analysis of clinical research shows that sodium bicarbonate does not improve mean power during sprint tests lasting 10 minutes or longer (25706). Also, although some individual research disagrees (104849), meta-analyses of research assessing athletic performance on Wingate tests, generally lasting up to 30 seconds, shows that acute sodium bicarbonate ingestion does not improve peak or mean power when compared with placebos such as calcium carbonate or sodium chloride (101265,106243). However, it does produce modest improvements in these measures for repeated performance (106243) or when ingested for 5-7 days (101265). In addition to cycling and running, the ergogenic benefits of sodium bicarbonate have been shown in some studies for activities such as swimming and rowing (106250). Although a small study in highly trained rowers found no benefit with sodium bicarbonate (97732), more recent research and a meta-analysis shows that taking sodium bicarbonate 100-300 mg/kg up to 4 hours prior to competition seems to be beneficial for improving mean power during a 2000-meter rowing performance (106245,106250,106253). Also, in elite level rowers, clinical research shows that taking sodium bicarbonate 300 mg/kg prior to competition, on an individualized schedule based on time to peak bicarbonate levels, improves rowing performance when compared with using a standardized administration time of 60 minutes prior to performance (106245). The ergogenic effects of sodium bicarbonate have also been shown for middle-distance, but not short-distance, swimming competitions (106249,106250). A meta-analysis of small clinical trials shows that taking sodium bicarbonate 200-300 mg/kg 60-120 minutes prior to competition has a small benefit on 200-meter and 400-meter swim tests, but not on tests of 100 meters or less (106249). Research related to the ergogenic effects of sodium bicarbonate for combat sports or martial arts is mixed (106244,106250,109691). Although the ISSN have suggested that the available clinical research shows that sodium bicarbonate is beneficial for combat sports (106250), a recent meta-analysis of clinical research in combat sport athletes, including judo, wrestling, and others, shows that sodium bicarbonate as single or multiple doses does not improve athletic performance, power, or perceived exertion when compared with placebo (109691). Also, a small clinical trial in jiu-jitsu athletes shows that taking sodium bicarbonate before testing does not improve muscle contractions (106244). One meta-analysis suggests that the ergogenic effects of sodium bicarbonate are associated with the degree of alkalosis (25707). However, initial research in male athletes shows that although taking 200 mg/kg sodium bicarbonate for 8 days does not significantly increase blood pH, it still improves performance on the Wingate test when compared with a single dose (104849). More research is needed to determine if taking sodium bicarbonate during training improves adaptations to exercise or whether sodium bicarbonate is beneficial in multi-sport or multi-day events (106250). Sodium bicarbonate has also been investigated in combination with other ergogenic compounds. There is some clinical evidence showing that combining sodium bicarbonate with beta-alanine or creatine may have additive effects (106250). Although most of the individual studies disagree with these findings, one meta-analysis of small clinical trials shows that taking a combination of sodium bicarbonate, usually a single dose, along with beta-alanine has a moderately greater ergogenic effect than taking beta-alanine alone (94357). Also, a small number of individual studies shows that taking sodium bicarbonate as a single dose or along with creatine improves performance in various sports (106250). More research is needed to determine any additional benefit of combining sodium bicarbonate with caffeine or nitrates (106250). Topical sodium bicarbonate has also been evaluated. Preliminary clinical research in healthy adults shows that topical application of 0.9036 grams/kg of sodium bicarbonate as a specific sodium bicarbonate 33.2% lotion (PR Lotion; Amp Human Performance) 30 minutes prior to exercise does not improve performance on the Wingate test when compared with placebo. This lotion also led to smaller increases in blood pH and bicarbonate ion levels when compared with a single oral dose of sodium bicarbonate 0.3 grams/kg (104848).
Drug-induced sodium channel blockade. Intravenous sodium bicarbonate seems to be beneficial for the management of drug-induced sodium channel blockade. Details: Preliminary clinical studies show that intravenous sodium bicarbonate treats QRS widening following exposure to various drugs, including tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs), cocaine, diphenhydramine, citalopram, some antiarrhythmics, and others. Benefits of sodium bicarbonate may be related to an increased sodium concentration and/or a change in pH. The best evidence of effectiveness of sodium bicarbonate is for TCA-induced sodium channel blockade. Further research is needed to determine the most effective dosing regimen (106257,106258).
Gingivitis. Brushing the teeth with sodium bicarbonate seems to be beneficial for gingivitis. Details: A meta-analysis of seven clinical trials in patients with mild to moderate gingivitis shows that using a 67% bicarbonate toothpaste twice daily for 3-24 weeks has a small beneficial effect on gingivitis, plaque, and bleeding when compared with placebo toothpaste (109692), One specific toothpaste (Parodontax Daily Toothpaste, GlaxoSmithKline) was used in some of the individual studies (98210,109692).

POSSIBLY INEFFECTIVE

Cardiac arrest. Intravenous sodium bicarbonate does not seem to improve survival in children or adults with an out-of-hospital cardiac arrest. Details: A meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials and observational research shows that sodium bicarbonate administration during cardiopulmonary resuscitation in adults does not improve the survival rate until hospital discharge in patients that had an out-of-hospital cardiac arrest when compared with no sodium bicarbonate administration. There was also no difference in the rate of return to spontaneous circulation (ROSC), with some preliminary evidence suggesting that the use of sodium bicarbonate actually reduces the incidence of sustained ROSC and the incidence of good neurological outcome at discharge (106247). There is also concern regarding the use of sodium bicarbonate in pediatric cardiac arrest. American Heart Association Pediatric Life Support (PLS) guidelines state that sodium bicarbonate administration is not recommended for routine management of cardiac arrest in pediatric patients (106254). A meta-analysis of seven observational studies has found that intravenous administration of sodium bicarbonate during pediatric resuscitation actually led to a moderate reduction in the rate of survival until hospital discharge (106246). The effect of sodium bicarbonate administration on neurological outcomes in adults with an out-of-hospital cardiac arrest has also been evaluated. Observational research in a French dataset has found that sodium bicarbonate administration is not associated with neurological outcome after 30 days. However, in North America, sodium bicarbonate administration is associated with 55% decreased odds of having a favorable functional outcome and a 41% reduction in survival (109693).
Ischemia-reperfusion injury. Intravenous sodium bicarbonate does not seem to prevent ischemia-reperfusion kidney injury in patients undergoing cardiac surgery. Details: A meta-analysis of clinical research shows that administering intravenous sodium bicarbonate does not prevent ischemia-reperfusion kidney injury when compared with placebo in adults undergoing cardiac surgery (97733).

Atopic dermatitis (eczema). Although there is interest in using topical sodium bicarbonate for eczema, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of sodium bicarbonate for this condition.
Bowel preparation. Sodium bicarbonate is an ingredient in some approved medications for bowel cleansing. However, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of sodium bicarbonate alone for this use.
Burns. Although there is interest in using topical sodium bicarbonate for burns, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of sodium bicarbonate for this condition.
Cancer. Although there is interest in using intratumoral sodium bicarbonate for cancer, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of sodium bicarbonate for this condition.
Chronic kidney disease (CKD). It is unclear if oral sodium bicarbonate is beneficial for CKD. Details: Preliminary clinical studies in adults with stage 3-5 CKD and low serum bicarbonate levels show that taking oral sodium bicarbonate 5.95-11.9 mEq three times daily or 0.4 mEq/kg daily for 12 months increases serum bicarbonate levels, but does not improve kidney function, quality of life, bone mineral density, or physical functioning scores, when compared with placebo (104845,104851). Some clinical research in adults undergoing continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis shows that adding oral sodium bicarbonate 900 mg three times daily for 12 months to prescription dialysis improves nutritional status and reduces the duration of hospitalization, but not number of hospitalizations, when compared with placebo (29940). One preliminary clinical trial shows that taking sodium bicarbonate, titrating up to an average of 3.7 grams daily in two divided doses, for 12 weeks reduces the frequency of hyperkalemia from 11% of measurements at baseline to 4%. Also, pre-dialysis bicarbonate levels were increased by 2.12 mmol/L (109689). However, the target bicarbonate level of 22 mmol/L was not consistently achieved and there was no benefit in lean body mass, muscle strength, or electrocardiogram changes (109689). Also, other clinical research in patients with metabolic acidosis prior to dialysis shows that administering dialysate bicarbonate 40 mEq/L with or without oral sodium bicarbonate 1 mEq/kg daily in three divided doses for 16 weeks does not improve nutritional parameters when compared with dialysate bicarbonate 35 mEq/L alone (29939).
Constipation. Although there is interest in using oral and topical sodium bicarbonate for constipation, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of sodium bicarbonate for this condition.
Contrast induced nephropathy. It is unclear if intravenous sodium bicarbonate is beneficial for contrast induced nephropathy prevention. Details: Clinical trials evaluating the use of intravenous sodium bicarbonate report conflicting results and utilize heterogeneous doses, comparators, and concomitant therapies. Meta-analyses of clinical research show that intravenous sodium bicarbonate (sodium concentration 80-154 mEq/L) 1 mL/kg/hr for up to 12 hours or 3 mL/kg/hr for 1 hour prior to cardiac angiography, followed by 1 mL/kg/hour for 6-12 hours following cardiac angiography, reduces the risk of contrast induced nephropathy when compared to hydration with normal saline (25714,25715,25717,25718,25721,25754,97036). However, when only studies that compared the effects of sodium bicarbonate plus N-acetylcysteine to normal saline plus N-acetylcysteine are considered, the favorable effect of sodium bicarbonate was less significant or not significantly different (25715,25717), suggesting that N-acetylcysteine may have been responsible for the enhanced effectiveness shown in other studies. Additionally, most of the analyses note that significant heterogeneity exists among the published studies. When only large, higher methodological quality, randomized controlled trials are considered, sodium bicarbonate does not appear to reduce the risk of contrast induced nephropathy when compared to hydration with sodium chloride (25716,25721,97036). Clinical research shows that sodium bicarbonate does not appear to reduce the risk of congestive heart failure, the need for renal replacement therapy, or mortality when compared with normal saline (25711,25713,25714,25717,25718,25721,25754). Preliminary clinical research in patients with stage 3 chronic kidney disease also shows that no hydration is similar to hydration with 250 mL of sodium bicarbonate (sodium concentration 170 mEq/L). Follow up after 2-5 days and 7-14 days shows that the relative increase in serum creatinine with no hydration is non-inferior to sodium bicarbonate. However, the volume and concentration of sodium bicarbonate used in this trial was lower than many trials that previously demonstrated benefits (104846). Finally, a meta-analysis of the available literature suggests that xanthine and statins are superior to both sodium bicarbonate and normal saline for the treatment of contrast induced nephropathy (97036).
Dental plaque. It is unclear if brushing the teeth or rinsing the mouth with sodium bicarbonate is beneficial for dental plaque reduction. Details: A meta-analysis of clinical research shows that brushing teeth one time with 1.5 grams of toothpaste containing sodium bicarbonate 20% to 65% removes plaque better than brushing teeth with toothpaste containing triclosan/copolymer or fluoride/silica and no sodium bicarbonate, particularly for teeth that are difficult to reach with a toothbrush (25708). Products assessed in the analysis included Arm & Hammer Dental Care, Arm & Hammer Advanced White Brilliant Sparkle, Arm & Hammer Advance White Baking Soda and Peroxide, and Arm & Hammer Liquid Gel (Church & Dwight Co. Inc.). However, the meta-analysis is limited by the fact that most studies were only single-brushing crossover comparisons. Therefore, it is not clear if sodium bicarbonate-containing toothpastes are significantly better than toothpastes that do not contain sodium bicarbonate when used long-term. Additionally, some limited research suggests that sodium bicarbonate seems to work as well as fluoride in toothpaste for removing dental plaque. One small clinical study shows that brushing teeth once with toothpaste containing sodium bicarbonate 20% to 67% is no different for reducing plaque than brushing teeth with control toothpaste containing 0.312% fluoride (101264). Preliminary clinical research also shows that using an oral rinse (Periogen) containing sodium bicarbonate, sodium fluoride, and multiple other ingredients for 60 seconds, twice daily for 3 days, decreases dental plaque and bleeding by a small amount when compared with baseline in healthy patients who did not brush their teeth during the study (97731).
Earwax. It is unclear if ear drops containing sodium bicarbonate are beneficial for removing earwax. Details: Preliminary clinical research shows that treatment with sodium bicarbonate solution four drops twice daily for 5 days prior to irrigation improves earwax clearance better than no treatment and similar to Cerumol ear drops. The percentage of ears completely cleared by irrigation after treatment with Cerumol, sodium bicarbonate, and no treatment is 22%, 20%, and 5%, respectively (29936). Other clinical research shows that administering 10% sodium bicarbonate solution four drops daily for 14 days is similarly effective to 2.5% acetic acid solution for reducing the degree of earwax in children and adults with occlusive earwax (29937). However, treatment with sodium bicarbonate solution prior to irrigation may make syringing more difficult when compared to other methods. Some clinical research shows that administering Cerumol ear drops once daily for 3 days prior to syringing makes syringing easier when compared to administering sodium bicarbonate for the same treatment duration in elderly patients (29938).
Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Sodium bicarbonate is an ingredient in some approved medications for GERD. However, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of sodium bicarbonate alone for this use.
Hyperkalemia. Although there is interest in using oral and intravenous sodium bicarbonate for hyperkalemia, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of sodium bicarbonate for this condition.
Infertility. Although there is interest in using intravaginal sodium bicarbonate for infertility, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of sodium bicarbonate for this condition.
Insect bite. Although there is interest in using topical sodium bicarbonate for insect bite treatment, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of sodium bicarbonate for this condition.
Jellyfish stings. It is unclear if topical sodium bicarbonate is beneficial for jellyfish stings. Details: Preliminary clinical research shows that topical application of a sodium bicarbonate 50% slurry on gauze, replaced every 2 minutes for 30 minutes, does not reduce pain associated with jellyfish stings when compared with placebo. However, application of the slurry reduces overall redness (97730).
Kidney stones (nephrolithiasis). Although there is interest in using oral sodium bicarbonate for kidney stones, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of sodium bicarbonate for this condition.
Muscle Strength. It is unclear if oral sodium bicarbonate is beneficial for muscle strength. Details: A meta-analysis of small clinical studies in healthy adults shows that taking sodium bicarbonate 300-400 mg/kg 1-2 hours before exercise does not improve mean muscle strength when compared with placebo (104852).
Neonatal resuscitation. It is unclear if intravenous sodium bicarbonate improves outcomes in neonates requiring resuscitation. Details: Preliminary clinical research in asphyxiated newborns still requiring positive pressure ventilation at 5 minutes of life shows that intravenous sodium bicarbonate 4 mL/kg (1.8 mEq/kg) for 3-5 minutes does not improve survival or reduce the risk of neurological abnormality, encephalopathy, cerebral edema, need for inotropic support, or risk of intraventricular hemorrhage when compared with 5% dextrose (25692).
Oral mucositis. It is unclear if rinsing the mouth with sodium bicarbonate is beneficial for chemotherapy-associated oral mucositis. Details: Clinical research in patients with chemotherapy-induced oral mucositis shows that using 7.5 mL of a mouthwash containing sodium bicarbonate 5% for 3 weeks has a moderate to large beneficial effect on the severity of mucositis and quality of life when compared with placebo. The mouthwash was swished for two, two-minute sessions separated by 15 minutes, repeated every 8 hours (109690).
Organophosphorus pesticide poisoning. Although there is interest in using intravenous sodium bicarbonate for organophosphorus pesticide poisoning, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of sodium bicarbonate for this condition.
Peptic ulcers. Sodium bicarbonate is an ingredient in some approved medications for peptic ulcers. However, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of sodium bicarbonate alone for this use.
Poison oak and poison ivy dermatitis. Although there is interest in using topical sodium bicarbonate for poison oak and poison ivy dermatitis, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of sodium bicarbonate for this condition.
Pruritus. Although there is interest in using topical sodium bicarbonate for pruritus, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of sodium bicarbonate for this condition.
Psoriasis. It is unclear if topical sodium bicarbonate is beneficial for psoriasis. Details: In patients with mild to moderate stable plaque psoriasis, a small clinical trial shows that topical sodium bicarbonate 30% does not improve symptoms of psoriasis when compared with a lanette wax vehicle only (106256).
Rhabdomyolysis. Although there is interest in using intravenous sodium bicarbonate for preventing rhabdomyolysis-induced kidney injury, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of sodium bicarbonate for this condition.
Salicylate intolerance. Although there is interest in using intravenous sodium bicarbonate for salicylate intolerance, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of sodium bicarbonate for this condition.
Tooth discoloration. It is unclear if brushing the teeth with sodium bicarbonate is beneficial for tooth discoloration. Details: Preliminary clinical research shows that using a specific toothpaste containing 35% sodium bicarbonate (Arm & Hammer Truly Radiant Toothpaste, Church & Dwight Co. Inc.) for 2 minutes twice daily for 6 weeks reduces tooth staining by approximately 45% when compared to baseline. This product was more beneficial than a non-whitening toothpaste control, as well as a positive control that reduced staining by approximately 38% over baseline (97736). However, preliminary clinical research shows that using a toothpaste containing sodium bicarbonate 67% (Corsodyl Daily Gum and Toothpaste, GSK Consumer Healthcare) for one minute twice daily for 6 weeks does not reduce staining associated with use of a chlorhexidine 0.2% mouthwash when compared with a control toothpaste without sodium bicarbonate (97727).
Urinary tract infections (UTIs). Although there is interest in using oral sodium bicarbonate for UTIs, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of sodium bicarbonate for this condition.
Ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP). It is unclear if rinsing the mouth with sodium bicarbonate reduces the risk of VAP. Details: Preliminary clinical research in adults who have been mechanically ventilated for at least 4 days shows that using an oral rinse containing sodium bicarbonate 0.13 grams in 20 mL every 2 hours, in conjunction with tooth brushing three times daily, does not reduce the risk of VAP when compared with sterile water and tooth brushing (97737).
Wound healing. Although there is interest in using topical sodium bicarbonate for wound healing, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of sodium bicarbonate for this condition. More evidence is needed to rate sodium bicarbonate for these uses.

Safety view details

Below is general information about the safety of the known ingredients contained in the product Kids Babies Tum Ease. Some ingredients may not be listed. This information does NOT represent a recommendation for or a test of this specific product as a whole.

DILL

LIKELY SAFE ...when used orally in amounts commonly found in foods. Dill has Generally Recognized as Safe (GRAS) status in the US (4912).

POSSIBLY SAFE ...when used orally and appropriately in medicinal amounts (12). There is insufficient reliable information available about the safety of dill when used topically.

PREGNANCY: POSSIBLY UNSAFE
when used in medicinal amounts. Dill seed is used to stimulate menstrual flow (19). Theoretically, dill seed might adversely affect pregnancy.

LACTATION:
Insufficient reliable information available; avoid amounts greater than those found in foods.

FENNEL

LIKELY SAFE ...when used orally in amounts commonly found in foods. Fennel has Generally Recognized as Safe (GRAS) status in the US (4912).

POSSIBLY SAFE ...when fennel essential oil or extract is used orally and appropriately, short-term. Twenty-five drops (about 1.25 mL) of fennel fruit extract standardized to fennel 2% essential oil has been safely used four times daily for 5 days (49422). Also, two 100 mg capsules each containing fennel 30% essential oil standardized to 71-90 mg of anethole has been safely used daily for 8 weeks (97498). Powdered fennel extract has been used with apparent safety at a dose of 800 mg daily for 2 weeks (104199). ...when creams containing fennel 2% to 5% are applied topically (49429,92509).

CHILDREN: POSSIBLY SAFE
when combination products containing fennel are used to treat colic in infants for up to one week. Studied products include up to 20 mL of a fennel seed oil emulsion; a specific product (ColiMil) containing fennel 164 mg, lemon balm 97 mg, and German chamomile 178 mg; and up to 450 mL of a specific tea (Calma-Bebi, Bonomelli) containing fennel, chamomile, vervain, licorice, and lemon balm (16735,19715,49428).

PREGNANCY: POSSIBLY UNSAFE
when used orally. Observational research has found that regular use of fennel during pregnancy is associated with shortened gestation (100513).

LACTATION: POSSIBLY UNSAFE
when used orally. Case reports have linked consumption of an herbal tea containing extracts of fennel, licorice, anise, and goat's rue to neurotoxicity in two breast-feeding infants. The adverse effect was attributed to anethole, a constituent of fennel and anise (16744). However, levels of anethole were not measured in breastmilk, and the herbal tea was not tested for contaminants. Furthermore, other adverse effects related to use of fennel during lactation have not been reported. However, until more is known, avoid using.

GINGER

LIKELY SAFE ...when used orally and appropriately. Ginger has been safely used in multiple clinical trials (721,722,723,5343,7048,7084,7085,7400,7623,11346)(12472,13080,13237,13244,17369,17928,17929,89889,89890,89894)(89895,89898,89899,90102,96252,96253,96259,96260,96669) (101760,101761,101762,103359,107903).

POSSIBLY SAFE ...when used topically and appropriately, short-term (89893,89897).

CHILDREN: LIKELY SAFE
when consumed in the amounts typically found in foods.

CHILDREN: POSSIBLY SAFE
when used orally and appropriately, short-term. Ginger powder has been used with apparent safety at a dose of up to 750 mg daily for 4 days in girls aged 14-18 years (96255).

PREGNANCY: LIKELY SAFE
when consumed in the amounts typically found in foods. Ginger is considered a first-line nonpharmacological treatment option for nausea in pregnancy by the American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology (ACOG) (111601). However, it should not be used long-term or without medical supervision and close monitoring.

PREGNANCY: POSSIBLY SAFE
when used for medicinal purposes. Despite some early reports of adverse effects (721,7083) and one observational study suggesting that taking dried ginger and other herbal supplements during the first 20 weeks of pregnancy marginally increased the chance of stillbirth (96254), most research shows that ginger is unlikely to cause harm to the baby. The risk for major malformations in infants of parents who took ginger when pregnant does not appear to be higher than the baseline rate of 1% to 3% (721,1922,5343,11346,13071,13080,96254). Also, other research suggests that ginger intake during various trimesters does not significantly affect the risk of spontaneous abortion, congenital malformations, stillbirth, perinatal death, preterm birth, low birth weight, or low Apgar scores (18211,90103). Ginger use has been associated with an increase in non-severe vaginal bleeding, including spotting, after week 17 of pregnancy (18211).

LACTATION: LIKELY SAFE
when consumed in the amounts typically found in foods. There is insufficient reliable information available about the safety of ginger when used for medicinal purposes; avoid amounts greater than those found in foods.

POSSIBLY UNSAFE ...when used orally in excessive amounts. Over 20 cases of stomach rupture have been reported for patients who used sodium bicarbonate to relieve stomach discomfort after eating large meals (29414,29415,29416,29962,90913). In some of these cases, it is believed that the patients consumed dry sodium bicarbonate or a sodium bicarbonate suspension rather than a completely dissolved sodium bicarbonate solution. Ingestion of undissolved or partially undissolved sodium bicarbonate is believed to produce excess carbon dioxide and corresponding gastric dilation, leading to stomach rupture (90913). There is also concern that excessive or prolonged use of oral sodium bicarbonate may cause metabolic alkalosis characterized by hypokalemia, hypochloremia, and hypernatremia (25733,29962,90913). There is insufficient reliable information available about the safety of sodium bicarbonate when used topically.

CHILDREN: POSSIBLY SAFE
when used intravenously and appropriately with proper medical supervision. Intravenous sodium bicarbonate solutions are approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to be used in infants and children (13309).

CHILDREN: POSSIBLY UNSAFE
when used topically. At least two cases of hypernatremia resulting from topical application of sodium bicarbonate (baking soda) have been reported (29962,90914). There is insufficient reliable information available about the safety of sodium bicarbonate when used orally; avoid using unless advised by a physician.

PREGNANCY AND LACTATION: POSSIBLY UNSAFE
when used orally or intravenously during pregnancy. There is concern that sodium bicarbonate may increase the risk of metabolic alkalosis or fluid retention when used orally during pregnancy (90915). There is insufficient reliable information available about the safety of oral or intravenous sodium bicarbonate when used in medicinal amounts during lactation.

Interactions with Drugs view details

Below is general information about the interactions of the known ingredients contained in the product Kids Babies Tum Ease. Some ingredients may not be listed. This information does NOT represent a recommendation for or a test of this specific product as a whole.

DILL

ANTIDIABETES DRUGS

Interaction Rating = Moderate Be cautious with this combination.

Severity = Moderate • Occurrence = Possible • Level of Evidence = D

Theoretically, dill extract might have additive effects with antidiabetes drugs and increase the risk of hypoglycemia. Animal research shows that dill extract can reduce blood sugar levels (47799,47817). Monitor blood glucose levels closely. Dose adjustments might be necessary.

Details

Some antidiabetes drugs include glimepiride (Amaryl), glyburide (DiaBeta, Glynase PresTab, Micronase), insulin, pioglitazone (Actos), rosiglitazone (Avandia), and others.

LITHIUM

Interaction Rating = Moderate Be cautious with this combination.

Severity = Moderate • Occurrence = Probable • Level of Evidence = D

Dill is thought to have diuretic properties (11). Theoretically, due to these potential diuretic effects, dill might reduce excretion and increase levels of lithium. The dose of lithium might need to be decreased.

FENNEL

ANTICOAGULANT/ANTIPLATELET DRUGS

Interaction Rating = Moderate Be cautious with this combination.

Severity = Moderate • Occurrence = Possible • Level of Evidence = D

Theoretically, fennel might increase the risk of bleeding when used with antiplatelet or anticoagulant drugs.

Details

Animal research suggests that fennel oil has antithrombotic and antiplatelet effects (31415,49445).

CIPROFLOXACIN (Cipro)

Interaction Rating = Moderate Be cautious with this combination.

Severity = Moderate • Occurrence = Probable • Level of Evidence = D

Theoretically, fennel might decrease the levels and clinical effects of ciprofloxacin.

Details

Animal research shows that fennel reduces ciprofloxacin bioavailability by nearly 50%, possibly due to the metal cations such as calcium, iron, and magnesium contained in fennel. This study also found that fennel increased tissue distribution and slowed elimination of ciprofloxacin (6135).

CONTRACEPTIVE DRUGS

Interaction Rating = Moderate Be cautious with this combination.

Severity = High • Occurrence = Possible • Level of Evidence = D

Theoretically, taking large amounts of fennel might decrease the effects of contraceptive drugs due to competition for estrogen receptors.

Details

Some constituents of fennel have estrogenic activity (11).

CYTOCHROME P450 3A4 (CYP3A4) SUBSTRATES

Interaction Rating = Moderate Be cautious with this combination.

Severity = Moderate • Occurrence = Possible • Level of Evidence = D

Theoretically, fennel might increase levels of drugs metabolized by CYP3A4.

Details

In vitro research suggests that fennel inhibits CYP3A4 enzyme activity (38375,49468). This effect has not been reported in humans.

ESTROGENS

Interaction Rating = Moderate Be cautious with this combination.

Severity = Moderate • Occurrence = Possible • Level of Evidence = D

Theoretically, taking large amounts of fennel might interfere with hormone replacement therapy due to competition for estrogen receptors.

Details

Some constituents of fennel have estrogenic activity (11).

TAMOXIFEN (Nolvadex)

Interaction Rating = Moderate Be cautious with this combination.

Severity = High • Occurrence = Possible • Level of Evidence = D

Theoretically, taking large amounts of fennel might decrease the antiestrogenic effect of tamoxifen.

Details

Some constituents of fennel have estrogenic activity (11), which may interfere with the antiestrogenic activity of tamoxifen.

GINGER

ANTICOAGULANT/ANTIPLATELET DRUGS

Interaction Rating = Moderate Be cautious with this combination.

Severity = High • Occurrence = Possible • Level of Evidence = B

Ginger may have antiplatelet effects and may increase the risk of bleeding if used with anticoagulant or antiplatelet drugs. However, research is conflicting.

Details

Laboratory research suggests that ginger inhibits thromboxane synthetase and decreases platelet aggregation (7622,12634,20321,20322,20323,96257). However, this has not been demonstrated unequivocally in humans, with mixed results from clinical trials (96257). Theoretically, excessive amounts of ginger might increase the risk of bleeding when used with anticoagulant/antiplatelet drugs.

ANTIDIABETES DRUGS

Interaction Rating = Moderate Be cautious with this combination.

Severity = Moderate • Occurrence = Possible • Level of Evidence = D

Theoretically, taking ginger with antidiabetes drugs might increase the risk of hypoglycemia.

Details

Animal and human research suggests that ginger might increase insulin levels and/or decrease blood glucose levels (12636,20402,20403,20404,20405,89895,89896,107898).

CALCIUM CHANNEL BLOCKERS

Interaction Rating = Minor Be watchful with this combination.

Severity = Moderate • Occurrence = Unlikely • Level of Evidence = D

Theoretically, taking ginger with calcium channel blockers might increase the risk of hypotension.

Details

Some animal and in vitro research suggests that ginger has hypotensive and calcium channel-blocking effects (12633). Another animal study shows that concomitant administration of ginger and the calcium channel blocker amlodipine leads to greater reductions in blood pressure when compared with amlodipine alone (107901).

CYCLOSPORINE (Neoral, Sandimmune)

Interaction Rating = Minor Be watchful with this combination.

Severity = Mild • Occurrence = Possible • Level of Evidence = D

Theoretically, when taken prior to cyclosporine, ginger might decrease cyclosporine levels.

Details

In an animal model, ginger juice taken 2 hours prior to cyclosporine administration reduced the maximum concentration and area under the curve of cyclosporine by 51% and 40%, respectively. This effect was not observed when ginger juice and cyclosporine were administered at the same time (20401).

CYTOCHROME P450 1A2 (CYP1A2) SUBSTRATES

Interaction Rating = Minor Be watchful with this combination.

Severity = Insignificant • Occurrence = Possible • Level of Evidence = D

Theoretically, ginger might increase the levels of CYP1A2 substrates.

Details

In vitro research shows that ginger inhibits CYP1A2 activity (111544). However, this interaction has not been reported in humans.

CYTOCHROME P450 2B6 (CYP2B6) SUBSTRATES

Interaction Rating = Minor Be watchful with this combination.

Severity = Insignificant • Occurrence = Possible • Level of Evidence = D

Theoretically, ginger might increase the levels of CYP2B6 substrates.

Details

In vitro research shows that ginger inhibits CYP2B6 activity (111544). However, this interaction has not been reported in humans.

CYTOCHROME P450 2C9 (CYP2C9) SUBSTRATES

Interaction Rating = Minor Be watchful with this combination.

Severity = Insignificant • Occurrence = Possible • Level of Evidence = D

Theoretically, ginger might increase the levels of CYP2C9 substrates.

Details

In vitro research shows that ginger inhibits CYP2C9 activity (111544). However, this interaction has not been reported in humans.

CYTOCHROME P450 3A4 (CYP3A4) SUBSTRATES

Interaction Rating = Moderate Be cautious with this combination.

Severity = Moderate • Occurrence = Possible • Level of Evidence = D

Ginger might increase or decrease the levels of CYP3A4 substrates.

Details

In vitro research and some case reports suggest that ginger inhibits CYP3A4 activity (111544,111644). Three case reports from the World Health Organization (WHO) adverse drug reaction database describe increased toxicity in patients taking ginger and cancer medications that are CYP3A4 substrates (imatinib, dabrafenib, and crizotinib). However, the causality of this interaction is unclear due to the presence of multiple interacting drugs and routes of administration (111644).
Conversely, other in vitro research suggests that ginger induces CYP3A4 activity, leading to reduced levels of CYP3A4 substrates (111404). However, this interaction has not been reported in humans.

LOSARTAN (Cozaar)

Interaction Rating = Moderate Be cautious with this combination.

Severity = Moderate • Occurrence = Possible • Level of Evidence = D

Theoretically, ginger might increase levels of losartan and the risk of hypotension.

Details

In animal research, ginger increased the levels and hypotensive effects of a single dose of losartan (102459). It is not clear if ginger alters the concentration or effects of losartan when taken continuously. Additionally, this interaction has not been shown in humans.

METRONIDAZOLE (Flagyl)

Interaction Rating = Minor Be watchful with this combination.

Severity = Mild • Occurrence = Possible • Level of Evidence = D

Theoretically, ginger might increase levels of metronidazole.

Details

In an animal model, ginger increased the absorption and plasma half-life of metronidazole. In addition, the elimination rate and clearance of metronidazole was significantly reduced (20350).

NIFEDIPINE (Procardia)

Interaction Rating = Moderate Be cautious with this combination.

Severity = Moderate • Occurrence = Possible • Level of Evidence = B

Ginger may have antiplatelet effects and increase the risk of bleeding if used with nifedipine.

Details

Clinical research shows that combined treatment with ginger 1 gram plus nifedipine 10 mg significantly inhibits platelet aggregation when compared to nifedipine or ginger alone (20324).

P-GLYCOPROTEIN SUBSTRATES

Interaction Rating = Moderate Be cautious with this combination.

Severity = Moderate • Occurrence = Possible • Level of Evidence = D

Ginger might increase the absorption and blood levels of P-glycoprotein (P-gp) substrates.

Details

In vitro research and case reports suggest that ginger inhibits drug efflux by P-gp, potentially increasing absorption and serum levels of P-gp substrates (111544,111644). Two case reports from the World Health Organization (WHO) adverse drug reaction database describe increased toxicity in patients taking ginger and cancer medications that are P-gp substrates (trametinib, crizotinib). However, the causality of this interaction is unclear due to the presence of multiple interacting drugs and routes of administration (111644).

PHENPROCOUMON (Marcoumar, others)

Interaction Rating = Moderate Be cautious with this combination.

Severity = High • Occurrence = Possible • Level of Evidence = D

Ginger might increase the risk of bleeding with phenprocoumon.

Details

Phenprocoumon, a warfarin-related anticoagulant, might increase the international normalized ratio (INR) when taken with ginger. There is one case report of a 76-year-old woman with a stable INR on phenprocoumon that increased to greater than 10 when she began consuming dried ginger and ginger tea (12880).

WARFARIN (Coumadin)

Interaction Rating = Moderate Be cautious with this combination.

Severity = High • Occurrence = Possible • Level of Evidence = B

Ginger might increase the risk of bleeding with warfarin.

Details

Laboratory research suggests that ginger might inhibit thromboxane synthetase and decrease platelet aggregation (7622,12634,20321,20322,20323). In one case report, ginger increased the INR when taken with phenprocoumon, which has similar pharmacological effects as warfarin (12880). In another case report, ginger increased the INR when taken with a combination of warfarin, hydrochlorothiazide, and acetaminophen (20349). A longitudinal analysis suggests that taking ginger increases the risk of bleeding in patients taking warfarin for at least 4 months (20348). However, research in healthy people suggests that ginger has no effect on INR, or the pharmacokinetics or pharmacodynamics of warfarin (12881,15176). Until more is known, monitor INRs closely in patients taking large amounts of ginger.

AMINOGLYCOSIDE ANTIBIOTICS

Interaction Rating = Moderate Be cautious with this combination.

Severity = Moderate • Occurrence = Possible • Level of Evidence = D

Theoretically, sodium bicarbonate may increase the risk for hypokalemia in patients receiving aminoglycosides.

Details

AMPHOTERICIN-B (Abelcet, others)

Interaction Rating = Moderate Be cautious with this combination.

Severity = Moderate • Occurrence = Possible • Level of Evidence = D

Theoretically, sodium bicarbonate may increase the risk for hypokalemia in patients receiving amphotericin B.

Details

ASPIRIN

Interaction Rating = Moderate Be cautious with this combination.

Severity = Mild • Occurrence = Probable • Level of Evidence = B

Theoretically, sodium bicarbonate may reduce the levels and clinical effects of aspirin.

Details

In humans, oral or intravenous administration of sodium bicarbonate increases salicylate elimination. Although the exact mechanism of this effect is not clear, some researchers hypothesize that sodium bicarbonate increases urinary pH, which increases salicylate ionization and subsequent excretion by the kidneys. In patients with urine pH of about 5.5, renal clearance of salicylate is approximately 55 mL/min. When urine pH is increased with oral sodium bicarbonate to about 7.5, renal clearance of salicylate increases to approximately 100 mL/min. Similarly, urine alkalinization with sodium bicarbonate increases the mean total body clearance of salicylate by approximately 60% compared with urine acidification (29410,29411).

BETA-ADRENERGIC AGONISTS

Interaction Rating = Moderate Be cautious with this combination.

Severity = Moderate • Occurrence = Possible • Level of Evidence = D

Theoretically, sodium bicarbonate may increase the risk for hypokalemia in patients taking beta-adrenergic agonists.

Details

Orally, use of excessive sodium bicarbonate (such as the intake of "tablespoons" of sodium bicarbonate daily or up to one box of baking soda weekly) has been associated with cases of hypokalemia (25733). Furthermore, the most common adverse effect of intravenous sodium bicarbonate is hypokalemia (25709). Oral, parenteral, or inhaled beta-adrenergic agonists can reduce serum potassium levels, especially during acute use of high doses (6217,7001,8880,8881,8882,8883,8884,8885,8886,8889)(8890,9534,9599).

CEFPODOXIME PROXETIL (Vantin)

Interaction Rating = Moderate Be cautious with this combination.

Severity = Moderate • Occurrence = Probable • Level of Evidence = B

Theoretically, sodium bicarbonate might reduce the levels and clinical effects of cefpodoxime.

Details

Cefpodoxime proxetil is an oral prodrug that is de-esterified in the intestine to the active drug cefpodoxime. Drugs or supplements that increase gastric pH can inhibit the activation of cefpodoxime proxetil and reduce the peak plasma concentrations of cefpodoxime. In humans, taking sodium bicarbonate 12.6 grams orally along with cefpodoxime proxetil 200 mg reduces peak plasma concentrations and area under the plasma concentration-time curve (AUC) of cefpodoxime by 35% to 50% (25740).

CHLORPROPAMIDE (Diabinese)

Interaction Rating = Moderate Be cautious with this combination.

Severity = Moderate • Occurrence = Probable • Level of Evidence = B

Theoretically, sodium bicarbonate might reduce the levels and clinical effects of chlorpropamide.

Details

The elimination of chlorpropamide by the kidneys depends strongly on urine pH. At a pH of 5, the renal clearance of chlorpropamide ranges from 0.5 to 3 mL/hr. At a pH of 8, renal clearance of chlorpropamide ranges from 500 to 1000 mL/hr. When taken in combination with oral sodium bicarbonate, the elimination half-life of chlorpropamide is shortened from 49.7 to 12.8 hours and urinary excretion of chlorpropamide is increased four-fold (25741).

CISPLATIN (Platinol-AQ)

Interaction Rating = Moderate Be cautious with this combination.

Severity = Moderate • Occurrence = Possible • Level of Evidence = D

Theoretically, sodium bicarbonate may increase the risk of hypokalemia in patients receiving cisplatin.

Details

CORTICOSTEROIDS

Interaction Rating = Moderate Be cautious with this combination.

Severity = Moderate • Occurrence = Possible • Level of Evidence = D

Theoretically, sodium bicarbonate may increase the risk of hypokalemia in patients taking corticosteroids.

Details

Orally, use of excessive sodium bicarbonate (such as the intake of "tablespoons" of sodium bicarbonate daily or up to one box of baking soda weekly) has been associated with cases of hypokalemia (25733). Furthermore, the most common intravenous complication of sodium bicarbonate is hypokalemia (25709). Some glucocorticoids (corticosteroids) can also cause hypokalemia by causing sodium retention, resulting in compensatory renal potassium excretion. It is most common with hydrocortisone, cortisone, and fludrocortisone, followed by prednisone and prednisolone (4425).

LOOP DIURETICS

Interaction Rating = Moderate Be cautious with this combination.

Severity = Moderate • Occurrence = Possible • Level of Evidence = D

Theoretically, sodium bicarbonate may increase the risk of hypokalemia in patients taking loop diuretics.

Details

Loop diuretics increase urinary potassium excretion (4412,4425,4449). Orally, use of excessive sodium bicarbonate (such as the intake of "tablespoons" of sodium bicarbonate daily or up to one box of baking soda weekly) has been associated with cases of hypokalemia (25733). Furthermore, the most common complication of intravenous sodium bicarbonate is hypokalemia (25709).

METHYLXANTHINES

Interaction Rating = Moderate Be cautious with this combination.

Severity = Moderate • Occurrence = Possible • Level of Evidence = D

Theoretically, sodium bicarbonate may increase the risk of hypokalemia in patients taking methylxanthines.

Details

Orally, use of excessive sodium bicarbonate (such as the intake of "tablespoons" of sodium bicarbonate daily or up to one box of baking soda weekly) has been associated with cases of hypokalemia (25733). Furthermore, the most common complication of intravenous sodium bicarbonate is hypokalemia (25709). Theophylline and related drugs can reduce serum potassium levels, possibly by increasing intracellular uptake of potassium. Hypokalemia is most likely to occur after acute overdose of these drugs (17). However, reduced potassium levels can occur with therapeutic doses, and the incidence and degree of hypokalemia increases with increasing serum theophylline levels (9534,9537,9538,9539).

PSEUDOEPHEDRINE (Sudafed)

Interaction Rating = Moderate Be cautious with this combination.

Severity = Moderate • Occurrence = Probable • Level of Evidence = B

Theoretically, sodium bicarbonate may increase levels and adverse effects of pseudoephedrine.

Details

In humans, intravenous or oral administration of sodium bicarbonate can increase urinary pH. Clinical evidence shows that urine alkalinization increases the serum elimination half-life of pseudoephedrine by approximately 10-fold (29412). In one patient with persistently alkaline urine, treatment with pseudoephedrine resulted in hallucinations and personality changes (29412).

SODIUM-CONTAINING DRUGS

Interaction Rating = Moderate Be cautious with this combination.

Severity = Moderate • Occurrence = Possible • Level of Evidence = D

Concomitant use of sodium-containing drugs with additional sodium from dietary or supplemental sources may increase the risk of hypernatremia and long-term sodium-related adverse effects.

Details

The Chronic Disease Risk Reduction (CDRR) intake level of 2.3 grams of sodium daily indicates the intake at which it is believed that chronic disease risk increases for the apparently healthy population (100310). Some medications contain high quantities of sodium. When used in conjunction with sodium bicarbonate, the CDRR may be exceeded. Additionally, concomitant use may increase the risk for hypernatremia; this risk is highest in the elderly and people with other risk factors for electrolyte disturbances.

STIMULANT LAXATIVES

Interaction Rating = Moderate Be cautious with this combination.

Severity = Moderate • Occurrence = Possible • Level of Evidence = D

Theoretically, sodium bicarbonate may increase the risk of hypokalemia in patients taking stimulant laxatives.

Details

Long-term use of stimulant laxatives, or acute use of high doses (e.g., in bowel-cleansing regimens), can result in potassium loss and hypokalemia (4411,4412,4425). Orally, use of excessive sodium bicarbonate (such as intake of "tablespoons" of sodium bicarbonate daily or up to one box of baking soda weekly) has been associated with cases of hypokalemia (25733). Furthermore, the most common complication of intravenous sodium bicarbonate is hypokalemia (25709).

THIAZIDE DIURETICS

Interaction Rating = Moderate Be cautious with this combination.

Severity = Moderate • Occurrence = Possible • Level of Evidence = D

Theoretically, sodium bicarbonate may increase the risk of hypokalemia in patients taking thiazide diuretics.

Details

Thiazide diuretics increase urinary potassium excretion (4412,4425,4449). Orally, use of excessive sodium bicarbonate (such as the intake of "tablespoons" of sodium bicarbonate daily or up to one box of baking soda weekly) has been associated with cases of hypokalemia (25733). Furthermore, the most common complication of intravenous sodium bicarbonate is hypokalemia (25709).

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Adverse Effects view details

Below is general information about the adverse effects of the known ingredients contained in the product Kids Babies Tum Ease. Some ingredients may not be listed. This information does NOT represent a recommendation for or a test of this specific product as a whole.

DILL

General ...Orally, dill is well tolerated when used in amounts commonly found in foods (4912). Dill seems to be well tolerated when used as medicine (12). However, a thorough evaluation of safety outcomes has not been conducted. Some people are allergic to dill (47751,47753).
Topically, photodermatosis is possible after contact with juice from freshly harvested plants (19). Dill can also cause contact dermatitis (19,47767,47773).

Dermatologic ...Topically, photodermatosis is possible after contact with juice from freshly harvested plants (19).

Immunologic ...Orally, there are case reports of individuals allergic to dill (47751,47753). In one case, symptoms, including swelling around the eyes, itching, rash, and chapped lips, occurred after a delay of 12 hours (47751). In another case, immediate symptoms of anaphylaxis, as well as vomiting and diarrhea, occurred following intake and inhalation of foods cooked with dill (47753).
Topically, dill has resulted in contact dermatitis (47767,47773).

FENNEL

General ...Orally and topically, fennel seems to be well tolerated.
Most Common Adverse Effects:
Orally: Gastrointestinal discomfort, photosensitivity, and allergic reactions in sensitive individuals.
Serious Adverse Effects (Rare):
Orally: Seizures.

Dermatologic ...Advise patients to avoid excessive sunlight or ultraviolet light exposure while using fennel (19). Allergic reactions affecting the skin such as atopic dermatitis and photosensitivity may occur in patients who consume fennel (6178,49507).

Gastrointestinal ...Orally, fennel may cause gastrointestinal complaints, including nausea and vomiting (19146,104196).

Hematologic ...Methemoglobinemia has been reported in four infants following intoxication related to ingestion of a homemade fennel puree that may have been made from improperly stored fennel (49444).

Immunologic ...A case report describes an 11-year-old male who developed an allergy to fennel-containing toothpaste. Immediately after using the toothpaste, the patient experienced sneezing, coughing, itchy mouth, rhinorrhea, nasal congestion, wheezing, difficulty breathing, and palpitations, which resolved within 10 minutes of spitting out the toothpaste and rinsing the mouth. In challenge tests, the patient reacted to chewing fresh fennel root, but not ground fennel seeds (103822).

Neurologic/CNS ...Orally, fennel oil has been associated with tonic clonic and generalized seizures (12868). New-onset cluster headaches are reported in a 24-year-old female while using a toothpaste containing fennel and camphor for 3 months. The headaches resolved upon stopping the toothpaste (112368). It is unclear if this adverse effect can be attributed to fennel, camphor, or the combination.

Pulmonary/Respiratory ...Orally, fennel and fennel seed have been reported to cause bronchial asthma (49478).

GINGER

General ...Orally, ginger is generally well tolerated. However, higher doses of 5 grams per day increase the risk of side effects and reduce tolerability. Topically, ginger seems to be well tolerated.
Most Common Adverse Effects:
Orally: Abdominal discomfort, burping, diarrhea, heartburn, and a pepper-like irritant effect in the mouth and throat. However, some of these mild symptoms may be reduced by ingesting encapsulated ginger in place of powdered ginger.
Topically: Dermatitis in sensitive individuals.

Cardiovascular ...Orally, use of ginger resulted in mild arrhythmia in one patient in a clinical trial (16306).

Dermatologic ...Orally, ginger can cause hives (17933), as well as bruising and flushing (20316) or rash (20316).
Topically, ginger can cause dermatitis in sensitive individuals (12635,46902).

Gastrointestinal ...Orally, common side effects of ginger include nausea (17933,22602,89898,101761), belching (10380,103359), dry mouth (103359), dry retching (10380), vomiting (10380), burning sensation (10380), oral numbness (22602), abdominal discomfort (5343,89898,96253), heartburn (5343,7624,12472,16306,20316,51845,89894,89895,89898,89899)(101760,101761,101762,111543), diarrhea (5343,101760), constipation (89898,101760,101761), or a transient burning or "chilly hot" sensation of the tongue and throat (52076). Orally, Number Ten, a specific product composed of rhubarb, ginger, astragalus, red sage, and turmeric, can increase the incidence of loose stools (20346).
Four cases of small bowel obstruction due to ginger bolus have been reported following the ingestion of raw ginger without sufficient mastication (chewing). In each case, the bolus was removed by enterotomy. Ginger is composed of cellulose and therefore is resistant to digestion. It can absorb water, which may cause it to swell and become lodged in narrow areas of the digestive tract (52115).

Genitourinary ...In one clinical trial, some patients reported increased menstrual bleeding while taking a specific ginger extract (Zintoma, Goldaru) 250 mg four times daily orally for 3 days (17931). An "intense" urge to urinate after 30 minutes was reported in two of eight patients given 0.5-1 gram of ginger (7624). However, this effect has not been corroborated elsewhere. Dysuria, flank pain, perineal pain, and urinary stream interruption have been reported in a 43-year-old male who drank ginger tea, containing 2-3 teaspoons of dry ginger, daily over 15 years. The adverse effects persisted for 4 years and were not associated with increases in urinary frequency or urgency. Upon discontinuing ginger, the patient's symptoms began to improve within one week and completely resolved after eight weeks, with no relapses six months later (107902).

Immunologic ...In one case report, a 59-year-old Japanese female with multiple allergic sensitivities developed pruritus and then anaphylactic shock after taking an oral ginger-containing herbal supplement for motion sickness (Keimei Gashinsan, Keimeido). The patient had used this supplement previously for over 20 years with no allergic reaction. The authors theorized the development of a cross-reactivity to ginger after the use of an oral supplement containing zedoary and turmeric, which are also in the Zingiberaceae family (102463).

Neurologic/CNS ...Orally, ginger may cause sedation, drowsiness, or dizziness (16306,17933,51845).

Report an Adverse Reaction to Kids Babies Tum Ease

General ...Orally, sodium bicarbonate is generally well tolerated when used in over-the-counter antacid products. However, it is possibly unsafe when used in excessive amounts. Intravenously, sodium bicarbonate is generally well tolerated when used appropriately with proper medical supervision. Topically, a thorough evaluation of safety outcomes has not been conducted.
Most Common Adverse Effects:
Orally: Abdominal pain, bloating, diarrhea, flatulence, nausea, and vomiting.
Serious Adverse Effects (Rare):
Orally: Metabolic alkalosis and stomach rupture.
Intravenously: Alkalotic tetany, hypernatremia, hypocalcemia, hypokalemia, and metabolic alkalosis.

Cardiovascular ...Orally, sodium bicarbonate has been reported to cause increased blood pressure (109689).

Gastrointestinal ...Orally, sodium bicarbonate may cause mild adverse effects including gastrointestinal disturbance such as bloating, nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain (25706,106250). The severity of these effects appears to increase with dose (104850). When taken in large amounts (300 mg/kg as a single dose, 4 ounces over a 24-hour time period, or 10-12 ounces over 5 days), sodium bicarbonate can cause diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, bloating, flatulence, and abdominal pain (29962,104853,104850). Gastrointestinal side effects during exercise can be reduced when single doses of 200-300 mg/kg are taken 3 hours before with a high-carbohydrate meal (106250). Taking enteric-coated or delayed-release formulations may also reduce the incidence and severity of mild gastrointestinal symptoms (104853,106250), but enteric-coated formulations may also reduce overall absorption of bicarbonate (104853).
Sodium bicarbonate antacids may cause serious gastrointestinal effects, including stomach rupture, if taken orally as a partially dissolved slurry rather than a solution, especially if taken when overly full from food or drink (25735,25736,29414,29415,29416,90913).

Hematologic ...In patients with normal kidney function, appropriate use of oral sodium bicarbonate may not cause significant alkalosis, although it may increase loss of sodium, chloride, potassium, and volume due to diuresis (25733). However, excessive use or chronic oral intake of sodium bicarbonate may induce metabolic alkalosis characterized by levels of sodium bicarbonate ≥40 mEq/L, hypokalemia, hypochloremia, and hypernatremia (25733,29962,106255). When administered intravenously, the most common complication of sodium bicarbonate is hypokalemia (25709). Hypocalcemia or hypernatremia may also occur, although these effects are less common and typically associated with overaggressive therapy (25709,106255).
At least two cases of hypernatremia resulting from topical application of sodium bicarbonate (baking soda) have been reported (29962,90914).

Musculoskeletal ...Metabolic alkalosis induced by sodium bicarbonate has reportedly been associated with tetany that results from hypocalcemia; however, this condition is rare (25709).

Neurologic/CNS ...Orally, concomitant use of excessive sodium bicarbonate (intake of "tablespoons" of sodium bicarbonate daily or up to one box of baking soda weekly) has been associated with at least two cases of hypercalcemia-induced metabolic alkalosis, characterized by dizziness, headache, and loss of consciousness with shivering (25733). Rare symptoms include drowsiness, lethargy, seizures, and coma (106255). Sodium bicarbonate may also cause metabolic alkalosis and the associated symptoms when administered intravenously (13309). However, these effects are typically associated with therapy that is overaggressive.

Ocular/Otic ...At least three cases of otitis externa have been reported following the use of eardrops containing sodium bicarbonate (25696).