Ginger Power!

The number of patients I see nervous about being put on statins are legion. Many know their liver enzymes then have to be regularly monitored, particularly on high doses, because statins may cause hepatotoxicity. Atorvastatin (AT) has a longer action than other statins preventing active metabolites which are biotransformed mostly by cytochrome P3A4 in the liver and there are suggestions that AT may trigger autoimmune hepatasis. One case of liver failure has been reported.

Alternative to statins

Ginger, which I often couple with garlic, is my alternative suggestion, which is why I put both in my recommended daily liver flush (See the Patient Handbook on this website).

What’s in it?

Ginger contains phenolic compounds that have antioxidant, anticancer, anti-inflammatory and antithrombotic properties. It significantly reduces plasma cholesterol levels. It’s long term use has hypoglycemic, hypolipidemic and anti-artherosclerotic effect and it protects the liver against ethanol, carbon tetrachloride and acetaminophen induced hepatotoxicity.

It’s better known use is for nausea and vomiting in pregnancy coupled with vitamin B6 and it works far more effectively than Dramamine for travel sickness. It regulates blood sugar by stimulating the pancreatic cells and lowering cholesterol. The gingerol in it makes it a strong antioxidant and as an anti-inflammatory it is excellent for the treatment of arthritis.