Ginger contains an essential oil and certain pungent compounds, such as gingerol and shogaol that are thought to be the main active ingredients. The herb apparently prevents nausea through effects on the stomach and gastrointestinal system.
Ginger appears to relieve inflammatory pain as effectively as aspirin, ibuprofen and other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, without their adverse side effects. Ginger does this by partially blocking COX 2 enzymes, which are necessary to produce inflammation.