Gingerol: extraction methods, health implications, bioavailability and signaling pathways

Abstract

Ginger (Zingiber officinale L. Z.o.) is a well-known spice that has been used for centuries as a food ingredient and in traditional medicine. One of the primary active components of ginger is gingerol, which has been studied extensively for its potential health benefits and has significant anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antitumor, and antiulcer properties, confirming traditional use of ginger in ancient medicine as a home remedy for various ailments. Gingerol extraction techniques, health implications, bioavailability, and targeting signaling pathways in the gastrointestinal (GI) tract are areas of active research because it may be a promising therapeutic agent for various GI disorders including obesity, inflammation, diabetes, cancer and functional GI disorder. This review paper provides an overview of the current understanding of gingerol extraction techniques, the potential health benefits associated with gingerol consumption, and the mechanisms of action by which gingerol exerts its effects in the GI tract. In addition, this paper highlights the challenges associated with achieving optimal bioavailability of gingerol and potential strategies for improving its bioavailability. Finally, this paper explores the potential of targeting signaling pathways in the GI tract as a means of enhancing the therapeutic efficacy of gingerol. The research summarized in this abstract suggests that gingerol may be a promising therapeutic agent for various GI disorders. However, further research is needed to fully understand the mechanisms by which gingerol exerts its effects and to optimize its delivery and dosing for maximal therapeutic benefit.