Cibinong, LIPI Public Relations. Red ginger (Zingiber officinale var. rubrum) is one of the superior types of ginger rhizome plants in Indonesia. This type is a superior variety because it has a higher content of active compounds compared to other ginger varieties.
Red ginger is widely used as a raw material for traditional medicines. Morphologically, red ginger has a red to light orange rhizome color and has a sharp aroma and spicy taste.
Amid the spread of the Corona virus, there is incorrect information circulating regarding the benefits of red ginger, which is claimed to be able to cure its sufferers. “Until now, there is no evidence reporting the use of red ginger as an antivirus, especially the SARS-CoV-2 Corona virus,” said Masteria Yunovilsa Putra, Head of the Center for Drug Discovery and Development Research Group, Indonesian Institute of Sciences (LIPI). He explained that red ginger functions to help alleviate the symptoms, not to cure or kill the virus.
Red ginger as an immunomodulator
Masteria explained that red ginger has activity as an immunomodulator to enhance human immune system. “This effect is beneficial in the prevention and assistance in the recovery from the Corona virus,” he said.
The content of red ginger, especially gingerol and shogaol, are compounds responsible for the immunomodulator effect. In addition, red ginger also has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. “In general, the Corona virus has symptoms of excessive inflammation in the lungs. With the anti-inflammatory activity possessed by red ginger, it can alleviate these symptoms,” said Masteria.
Masteria added that consuming red ginger can be a step in disease prevention through increasing immunity. “Indonesian society generally uses red ginger as a food seasoning or consumed as traditional herbal medicine,” he said.
In addition, red ginger also has several other pharmacological activities. “It seems to lower blood pressure, has antibacterial properties, lower uric acid levels, hepatoprotective, lower cholesterol levels, aphrodisiac, prevent degenerative chronic diseases such as cardiovascular disease and diabetes in the elderly,” he concluded.
source : http://lipi.go.id/berita/Meluruskan-Informasi-Khasiat-Jahe-Merah/21972
