Hotline

Zinaxin® (Ginger Root)

Zinaxin® is a registered trade name for a ginger root extract that is commercially available as an over-the-counter natural product. This product is similar to other preparations also known as HMP-33, Zingiber officinale, and gingeroles. This preparation has been marketed to the general population and to some ACR members as a "nutriceutical" that may promote "joint health" in osteoarthritis.

To date, there is no published, controlled, research data to substantiate the claim that Zinaxin or other ginger root extracts have a significant biologic or clinical effect in patients with osteoarthritis or other rheumatic conditions. There have been sporadic reports examining some biologic effects of ginger. These very limited studies have shown some evidence that ginger may reduce prostaglandin and leukotriene production in vitro. There is no published data to suggest if this compound affects COX-1 or COX-2 preferentially. In one small study, ginger oil was given to treat adjuvant arthritis in rats and a significant reduction in paw joint swelling was observed. A multicenter, controlled clinical trial of ginger extract in humans with osteoarthritis of the knee is in progress.

Ginger is extracted from the rhizomes of the ginger root (Zingiberis rhixoma) that is grown worldwide, including China and Africa. In addition to its use as a spice, ginger has a long history of use in traditional Chinese medicine for the treatment of dyspepsia, motion sickness, nausea and for the relief of pain and inflammation associated with "rheumatism." The mechanisms underlying the antiemetic effects of ginger are uncertain. Ginger extract preparations vary widely in their concentration and purity, depending on the source of the root, extraction methodology and formulation.

In February 1998, the ACR issued a statement in ACR News stating that the College does not support the use of Zinaxin for arthritis. This statement was issued in response to promotional efforts by the makers of Zinaxin that mentioned the ACR. It is important to note that the ACR does not endorse or warrant any commercial products or services.

May 28, 1999
John J. Cush, MD
Robert F. Spiera, MD

Co-editors, ACR Hotline

Hotline is provided by the ACR Communications and Marketing Committee as a service to members. This Hotline reflects the views of the author(s) and does not represent a position statement of the College.