Black Ginger Rhizome Extract
Also known as: Black Ginger, Thai Black Ginger, Krachaidam, Krachai Dam, Kaempferia parviflora
Overview
Kaempferia parviflora, commonly referred to as Black Ginger or Thai Black Ginger, is a herbaceous plant native to Southeast Asia. The rhizome is primarily used for extracts known for their potential health benefits, evidenced by historical use in traditional herbal medicine. Rich in polymethoxyflavones and other bioactive compounds, Black Ginger is researched for its roles in metabolic syndrome management, physical performance enhancement, and sexual function improvement. Systematic reviews suggest strong evidence for its impact on glucose metabolism and physical endurance, although further human studies are warranted to solidify findings on its efficacy and safety.
Benefits
Research indicates that Black Ginger extract effectively lowers fasting blood glucose, with studies showing standardized mean differences of -0.88 in animals and -0.51 in humans. Additionally, it improves physical endurance by enhancing energy metabolism and fat utilization, making it valuable for sports performance. Secondary benefits encompass potential improvement in erectile dysfunction and weight management due to its anti-obesity properties, where it inhibits fat accumulation while promoting fat breakdown. It is particularly beneficial for individuals suffering from metabolic syndrome or those seeking to boost physical performance. Notably, benefits might take several weeks to months of consistent use to become apparent.
How it works
The primary mechanism of action of Black Ginger involves the enhancement of glucose and lipid metabolism, which contributes to increased endurance capacity. It is known to inhibit adipogenesis (fat accumulation) and stimulate lipolysis (fat breakdown) through its interaction with the Peroxisome Proliferator-Activated Receptor γ (PPARγ). This interaction has implications for both metabolic and muscular health, thereby improving muscle endurance and overall energy utilization. However, more research is needed to clarify details regarding its absorption and bioavailability in humans.
Side effects
Black Ginger is generally regarded as safe based on traditional usage, although there is a lack of comprehensive safety data in humans. Common adverse effects have not been well-documented; however, gastrointestinal upset can occur in about 1-5% of users. Due to insufficient research, rare side effects are difficult to identify. Caution is advised regarding potential drug interactions, particularly with diabetes medications, given its glucose-lowering effects. Additionally, it is contraindicated during pregnancy and breastfeeding, and individuals with diabetes or using blood sugar-affecting medications should approach with care.
Dosage
The minimum effective dosage of Black Ginger is not well defined, with animal studies suggesting a range between 150 to 600 mg of extract per kg body weight daily. For humans, optimal dosage guidelines have yet to be established, and there is no defined maximum safe dose, signaling the need for caution with higher intakes. There are no specific recommendations on the timing of administration. The extract form is typically consumed, and the variability in bioavailability is influenced by the formulation, although further investigation is needed regarding factors that may affect absorption.
FAQs
Is Black Ginger safe to use?
Generally considered safe in traditional use, but comprehensive safety data in humans are limited. Consult a healthcare provider before use, especially if taking medications.
How long before I see results from Black Ginger?
Benefits may take weeks to months of consistent use, depending on the specific outcome being targeted.
Can Black Ginger replace diabetes medication?
No, Black Ginger is not a substitute for medical treatment. Consult with a healthcare provider for appropriate management.
Research Sources
- https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0378874104002681 – This review summarizes the pharmacological properties and safety of *Kaempferia parviflora*, focusing on its impacts on metabolic disorders and physical performance based on both animal and human studies.
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23685344/ – A systematic review that discusses the effects of Black Ginger extract on glucose metabolism and endurance, highlighting significant findings related to its role in physical performance enhancement.
