What is the evidence supporting ginger's ability to lower cholesterol levels?

Reviewed by Yoshinori Abe, MD

Internal Medicine

Ginger may help lower cholesterol, according to several studies. Research suggests that compounds in ginger can reduce total cholesterol, LDL ("bad") cholesterol, and triglycerides. However, more studies are needed to confirm the optimal dosage and long-term effects.

While ginger shows promise as a natural way to support heart health, high cholesterol is often just one piece of a larger health picture. Symptoms like fatigue, chest discomfort, or unexplained weight changes could point to underlying conditions worth investigating. Rather than guessing, take a free, instant, online symptom check to better understand what your body may be telling you and get clear guidance on next steps.

Reviewed for medical accuracy: 07/14/2026

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Explanation

Ginger has been studied for its potential to lower cholesterol levels. Three studies provide insights into this possibility:

Study 1: Research published in the Saudi Medical Journal explored ginger's effect on lipid levels. It found that ginger might help reduce cholesterol levels, although the study suggests further research is necessary to confirm these findings.
Study 2: Another study in The Journal of Nutrition indicated that consuming ginger extract could reduce plasma cholesterol. This suggests that ginger might have a beneficial effect on cholesterol levels, but the study focuses on ginger extract specifically.
Study 3: A study in The British Journal of Nutrition investigated ginger's anti-diabetic and hypolipidaemic (cholesterol-lowering) properties. It found that ginger might have these beneficial effects, providing further evidence that ginger could help manage cholesterol levels.

In summary, while these studies suggest that ginger may help lower cholesterol, they also highlight the need for more comprehensive research to better understand how ginger affects cholesterol and to determine the most effective dosage and form. If you're concerned about your cholesterol levels or experiencing related symptoms, take a free symptom checker test to better understand your health and potential next steps.

(References)

Alizadeh-Navaei R, Roozbeh F, Saravi M, Pouramir M, Jalali F, & Moghadamnia AA. (2008). Investigation of the effect of ginger on the lipid levels. .... Saudi medical journal, 18813412.
Fuhrman B, Rosenblat M, Hayek T, Coleman R, & Aviram M. (2000). Ginger extract consumption reduces plasma cholesterol .... The Journal of nutrition, 10801908.
Al-Amin ZM, Thomson M, Al-Qattan KK, Peltonen-Shalaby R, & Ali M. (2006). Anti-diabetic and hypolipidaemic properties of ginger .... The British journal of nutrition, 17010224.

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