What is gingerol? The active molecule of ginger explained

When we talk about "benefits of ginger", it is in reality gingerols let's talk. Here's everything you need to know about this key molecule.

Definition

Gingerols are phenolic compounds naturally present in the rhizome of fresh ginger benefits (Zingiber officinale). The most abundant is the 6-gingerol, which represents ~50% of the bioactive compounds in fresh ginger.

Chemical structure

6-gingerol is chemically close to slimming-thermogenesis-weight-loss-shot">capsaicin (chili pepper) and curcumin (turmeric-black-pepper-synergy-benefits">turmeric). This structural similarity explains why these three compounds share similar anti-inflammatory properties.

Mechanisms of action of 6-gingerol

• NF-kB inhibition : reduces the expression of pro-inflammatory genes
• COX-2 inhibition : reduces the synthesis of prostaglandins (painkiller)
• Antioxidant activity : traps free radicals (DPPH, ABTS)
• 5-LOX inhibition : reduces leukotrienes (inflammation allergic)
• Serotonergic action (5-HT3) : anti-bloating-natural-remedy-2026">nausea

6-Gingerol vs 6-Shogaol: what’s the difference?

When fresh ginger dries or is heated, 6-gingerol transforms into 6-shogaol — a more powerful molecule like anti-inflammatory-science-usage">anti-inflammatory ginger (5-10x) but less effective against nausea. INTI uses rapidly processed fresh ginger to preserve an optimal ratio.

Concentration of gingerols in INTI

The gingerol content varies depending on the variety, terroir and freshness of the ginger. INTI selects organic ginger in Belgium from Peru processed within 48 hours after harvest to maximize the concentration of active 6-gingerol.