Ginger (Zingiber officinale) has been traditionally used for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties in various cultures, though its specific use in treating systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is not commonly mentioned in traditional medicine. In recent years, there has been some emerging scientific interest in ginger’s potential to modulate immune responses and reduce inflammation, which are central components of lupus pathology.

Several preclinical studies have found that ginger and its bioactive compounds, such as 6-gingerol, can inhibit pro-inflammatory cytokines and reduce oxidative stress in animal models of autoimmune disease. In 2021, a notable study published in Nature Communications showed that 6-gingerol could suppress neutrophil extracellular trap (NET) formation, a process implicated in lupus flares. In lupus-prone mice, ginger supplementation led to reduced autoantibody production and kidney inflammation.

However, clinical evidence in humans with lupus is currently lacking. No large-scale randomized controlled trials have validated ginger’s efficacy or safety for lupus patients. Thus, while there is a theoretical and preclinical scientific rationale, and some early animal data, the evidence base is not robust enough to strongly recommend ginger as a treatment for lupus at this time. Further research, especially in human subjects, is needed.