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Black Ginger Extract

Also known as: Kaempferia parviflora, Black Ginger, Krachaidum

Overview

Kaempferia parviflora, commonly known as Black Ginger or Krachaidum, is a plant native to Southeast Asia, particularly Thailand. It has a history of use in traditional Thai medicine for its potential health benefits, including improving metabolic health and sexual function. The plant contains polymethoxyflavones (PMFs), which are believed to be the active compounds responsible for its effects. Black ginger is available in various forms, most commonly as a capsule or extract. Research on black ginger is still emerging, with some clinical trials suggesting potential benefits, but more comprehensive studies are needed to fully understand its efficacy and safety. Current research explores its impact on physical performance, metabolic parameters, and sexual health.

Benefits

Black ginger extract has shown potential in improving physical fitness performance and muscular endurance, primarily supported by animal studies that demonstrate enhanced energy metabolism and reduced inflammation. Human studies suggest benefits in exercise performance and metabolic health, including improvements in fasting glucose, visceral fat, and resting heart rate, although more data is needed to confirm these findings. Some animal studies also indicate potential benefits for sexual health and erectile function. These benefits may be particularly relevant for individuals seeking to improve physical performance or metabolic health. However, the effect sizes and the time course of these benefits in humans are not yet well-established, necessitating further rigorous clinical trials.

How it works

Black ginger extract is believed to exert its effects primarily through the activation of AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK), a key regulator of energy metabolism. AMPK activation enhances energy production within cells and reduces inflammation. This mechanism may influence both the metabolic and muscular systems, improving energy production and reducing inflammatory markers. The extract's influence on mitochondrial function and glycogen synthesis, mediated by AMPK, is also under investigation. However, specific data on the absorption and bioavailability of black ginger extract in humans remains limited, requiring further research to fully elucidate its pharmacokinetic properties.

Side effects

While black ginger is generally considered safe, comprehensive safety data, particularly from human studies, is currently lacking. Common, uncommon, and rare side effects are not well-documented due to the limited availability of human trials. Potential drug interactions are also not well-studied, and contraindications have not been established. Due to the lack of sufficient data, pregnant or breastfeeding women should consult healthcare providers before using black ginger. More research is needed to fully characterize the safety profile of black ginger and identify any potential adverse effects or interactions with other medications or conditions. Individuals should exercise caution and consult with a healthcare professional before incorporating black ginger into their regimen.

Dosage

The minimum effective dose of black ginger extract has not been definitively established in human studies. Optimal dosage ranges are also not well-defined, although it is commonly available in capsule form. The maximum safe dose is currently unknown. Specific timing recommendations for consumption are not available. Due to the limited research, it is crucial to consult with a healthcare provider to determine an appropriate and safe dosage. Factors such as individual health status, specific health goals, and potential interactions with other medications should be considered. Further research is needed to establish clear dosing guidelines and safety thresholds for black ginger extract.

FAQs

Is black ginger safe to use?

Black ginger is generally considered safe, but more research is needed to confirm its safety profile comprehensively. Consult a healthcare provider before use.

What are the potential benefits of black ginger?

Potential benefits include improvements in physical performance, metabolic health, and possibly sexual function, but more human studies are needed.

How should I take black ginger?

There are no specific timing recommendations. Consult a healthcare provider for personalized advice on dosage and administration due to limited data.

What results can I expect from taking black ginger?

Some studies suggest potential improvements in physical performance and metabolic health, but individual results may vary. It is not a proven treatment for any condition.

Are there any risks associated with black ginger?

Due to limited research, potential risks are not fully known. Consult a healthcare provider, especially if pregnant, breastfeeding, or taking other medications.

Research Sources

https://examine.com/research-feed/study/9ybwJd/ – This meta-analysis of RCTs examined the effects of black ginger on metabolic health and exercise performance. It found improvements in fasting glucose, visceral fat, and resting heart rate, as well as some exercise performance metrics. The authors noted that human data is limited, and more studies are needed to confirm these findings.
https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/nutrition/articles/10.3389/fnut.2024.1364836/full – This study investigated the effects of black ginger extract on physical fitness in male mice over a 4-week period. The results showed significant improvements in swimming time, motility, and grip strength. While the study provides insights into potential mechanisms, it is important to note that results from animal studies may not directly translate to humans.
https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/10.1177/2156587216669628 – This systematic review examined the effects of Krachaidum (Kaempferia parviflora) on various health outcomes. The review included studies with healthy males and elderly participants, and observed some benefits in physical performance and erectile function. The authors highlighted the need for more rigorous human trials to confirm these potential benefits due to limited human data and variability in study quality.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27441286/ – This study likely investigates the effects or properties of Kaempferia parviflora. Further details would be needed to provide a more specific summary of its findings and methodology.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38194854/ – This study likely investigates the effects or properties of Kaempferia parviflora. Further details would be needed to provide a more specific summary of its findings and methodology.