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The Science Behind Fermented Ginger: Transforming Mobility and Wellness for Dogs and Humans
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The Science Behind Fermented Ginger: Transforming Mobility and Wellness for Dogs and Humans

What if a simple root could help you and your dog move easier, feel better, and live healthier?

Ginger is a good example of how a relatively common root can be a powerful medicine. It has been trusted for generations, and new research confirms its exceptionally powerful properties.

Used for centuries in traditional medicine, Ginger (Zingiber officinale) was known as “The Great Cure” in ancient India, easing colds, joint pain, and digestive upset. In Traditional Chinese Medicine, it is also a go-to for nausea, vomiting, and chills.

Whether you or your dog struggles with joint pain, digestive upset, or a weakened immune system, ginger is a powerful natural medicine without harsh side effects.

What Makes Ginger So Powerful?

Ginger contains more than 100 active compounds, but two in particular, gingerols and shogols, have caught the attention of scientists.

The health benefits stemming from these unique bioactive compounds, particularly 6-shogaol, zingerone, and 8-shogaol, have been identified for their potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, which can help significantly improve quality of life.

Key Health Benefits of Ginger for Dogs (and People!)

1. Anti-Inflammatory Support

Ginger’s anti-inflammatory properties are well-documented. Studies have shown that ginger can significantly:

    • Reduce joint and tissue inflammation
    • Ease symptoms of arthritis and osteoarthritis
    • Relieve pain without the side effects of NSAIDs
    • Helps recovery from physical strain or injury

A deeper dive into ginger’s anti-inflammatory effect

Ginger’s compounds inhibit inflammatory cytokines and pathways, helping reduce symptoms in conditions like rheumatoid arthritis. 

For inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), ginger supports gut health by balancing microbes and easing inflammation. 

In lupus, 6-gingerol has shown a protective effect by reducing neutrophil extracellular trap release. 

For psoriasis, ginger’s ability to decrease NF-κB activity suggests it could be a promising alternative treatment. Additionally, ginger may offer protective effects against cancer and help mitigate chemotherapy side effects, such as nausea.

2. Immune System Support

Rich in antioxidants, ginger helps neutralize harmful free radicals and supports the immune system. This is especially important for aging dogs or those with compromised immunity. Benefits include:

    • Strengthening of the immune system
    • Offering protective effects against cancer
    • Fighting free radical damage
    • Reducing the frequency of illness
    • Supporting recovery during or after illness

3. Digestive Health and Nausea Relief

Possibly the most well known benefit of Ginger is its ability to calm upset stomachs. For dogs with gas, motion sickness, or sensitive digestion (including those undergoing chemotherapy), ginger helps by:

    • Reducing nausea and vomiting
    • Easing bloating and gas
    • Supporting healthy digestion
    • Soothing the digestive tract

Why I Prefer and Recommend Fermented Ginger

Fermentation takes ginger’s natural benefits to the next level. By breaking down complex compounds, fermentation increases the bioavailability of its key actives—meaning your dog absorbs and uses more of what counts.

    • Absorption and medicinal effects increase seven to ten times with fermentation

    • Fermentation promotes a healthy gut microbiome, supporting digestion, immunity, and nutrient absorption

    • Powerful antioxidant and anti-cancer effect confirmed by research 

Additional Scientific Benefits of Ginger

Osteoarthritis:

A recent clinical study found that a supplement containing ginger, Cannabis sativa oil, and Boswellia serrata improved mobility and reduced inflammation in dogs with osteoarthritis. 

Dogs receiving the supplement showed increased glutathione (GSH) and decreased C-reactive protein (CRP) levels—markers of reduced inflammation and oxidative stress.

Metabolic Health:

Ginger has been shown to help regulate blood sugar, improve cholesterol levels, and support weight management—especially beneficial for senior or overweight dogs.

Muscle Pain & Stiffness:

Beyond joint pain, ginger’s natural analgesic effects can help reduce general soreness and stiffness, making it a great option for dogs after intense activity or as they age.

How to Add Ginger to Your Dog’s Routine

For Joint & Mobility Support:

Fermented ginger is a key ingredient in JointPowder — an all-natural joint and mobility support supplement. Combined with other science-backed ingredients, JointPowder helps reduce inflammation, improve mobility, speed up recovery, and keep your dog happy and mobile!

For Gut & Immune Health:

You’ll also find fermented ginger in GutSense— an advanced digestive support and probiotic supplement that supports digestion, strengthens the immune system, and promotes a healthy gut microbiome.

Conclusion

Fermented ginger is a safe, powerful, research-backed medicinal plant with huge potential in disease prevention and treatment. 

The evidence is clear: fermented ginger—especially when combined with other synergistic ingredients—can help ease joint pain, improve mobility, aid digestion, and strengthen immune and metabolic function. 

Click here to learn more about supplements containing fermented ginger

References

  1. Kapoor, L. D. (2001). Handbook of Ayurvedic Medicinal Plants. CRC Press.

  2. Ballester, P., Cerdá, B., Arcusa, R., Marhuenda, J., Yamedjeu, K., & Zafrilla, P. (2022). Effect of Ginger on Inflammatory Diseases. Molecules, 27(21), 7223.

  3. Salaramoli, S., Mehri, S., Yarmohammadi, F., Hashemy, S. I., & Hosseinzadeh, H. (2022). The effects of ginger and its constituents in the prevention of metabolic syndrome: A review. Iranian Journal of Basic Medical Sciences, 25(6), 664–674.

  4. Gabriele, V., Bisanzio, D., Riva, A., Meineri, G., Adami, R., & Martello, E. (2023). Long-term effects of a diet supplement containing Cannabis sativa oil and Boswellia serrata in dogs with osteoarthritis following physiotherapy treatments: a randomised, placebo-controlled and double-blind clinical trial. Natural Product Research, 37(11), 1782–1786. DOI: 10.1080/14786419.2022.2119967
About the author

Dr. Peter Dobias, DVM is an Integrative veterinarian, nutritionist and creator of natural supplements for dogs and people. Helping you and your dog prevent disease, treat nutritional deficiencies, and enjoy happier, healthier, and longer lives together.

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