Latin, Zingiber

Eng., Ginger. Synonyms, Jamaica Ginger, Ginger Root, etc. The dried rhizomes of Zingiber officinalis.

Principal Constituents

Volatile Oil ( 3/4 to 2 per cent.), resin, gingerol.

Average Dose

15 grains (1 Gm.).

Official Preparations.

Fluidextractum Zingiberis

Eng., Fluidextract of Ginger. Average Dose.-15 minims (1 mil).

1 White and Martin: Genito-urinary and Venereal Diseases.

2 Hughes: Practice of Medicine.

Oleoresina Zingiberis

Eng., Oleoresin of Ginger.

Average Dose

1/2 grain (0.03 Gm.).

Syrupus Zingiberis

Eng., Syrup of Ginger. Represents 3 per cent. of the drug.

Average Dose

4 fluidrachms (15 mils).

Tinctura Zingiberis

Eng., Tincture of Ginger. Synonyms, Essence of Ginger, Extract of Ginger, Jamaica Ginger, etc.

Average Dose

30 minims (2 mils).

Tincture of Ginger is contained in Aromatic Sulphuric Acid.

Therapeutic Action

Stomachic, carminative, anodyne.

Uses

The preparations of ginger are used in the treatment of acute indigestion, flatulence, intestinal cramps, dysmenorrhea, etc. The tincture is extensively employed as an intoxicant in prohibition districts.

Administration

The following will illustrate the use of the drug:

In the treatment of stomatitis:

M.

Sig

Teaspoonful in water every two hours.

In the treatment of flatulence, hysteria, etc.:

M.

Sig

Two (2) teaspoonfuls in water. Repeat when necessary.

As a flavor, etc., in a prescription for mixed treatment for infantile syphilis:

M.

Sig

Five (5) drops in milk three times a day.

1 Ruhrah: Diseases of Children.

2 Shoemaker: Materia Medica and Therapeutics.

3 Musser and Kelly: Practical Treatment.