Ginger supplements show promise in reducing autoimmune conditions

A recent study has revealed promising results for the use of ginger extract in controlling neutrophil hyperactivity in autoimmune diseases such as antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) and lupus, as well as in promoting neutrophil health in healthy individuals. Neutrophils are white blood cells involved in the body's immune response.

Ginger, known for its potential health benefits, contains a phytochemical called 6-gingerol, which was previously found to inhibit phosphodiesterase and counteract neutrophil hyperactivity in animal models of APS and lupus.

In this study, researchers investigated the impact of oral intake of whole ginger extract on neutrophils in autoimmune mice and healthy humans. They discovered that a solubilized ginger extract could reduce neutrophil extracellular trap formation (NETosis) in human neutrophils. This effect was mediated through cyclic AMP–dependent kinase, known as protein kinase A.

When mice with APS or lupus features were given oral ginger extract, they exhibited reduced circulating NETs (neutrophil extracellular traps), and improvements in disease-related outcomes, such as decreased risk of large-vein thrombosis in APS and reduced autoantibody production in lupus.

In a pilot clinical trial, followed by validation in a second cohort, healthy volunteers who consumed a ginger supplement for seven days experienced increased neutrophil cyclic AMP levels, decreased NETosis in response to relevant stimuli, and reduced levels of circulating plasma NETs.

Reference: Ramadan A. Ali et al, Ginger intake suppresses neutrophil extracellular trap formation in autoimmune mice and healthy humans, JCI Insight, 10.1172/jci.insight.172011