Ginger has become the herb of the year 2026

According to the professional justification, ginger is not only important as a spice: according to the European Medicines Agency’s (EMA) Herbal Medicines Committee (HMPC), it can be used in adults for, among other things, mild, spasmodic for the symptomatic treatment of gastrointestinal complaints, for the relief of temporary loss of appetite, and for the reduction of cold symptoms and mild joint complaints. A new feature of the HMPC assessment is that the findings for some symptom groups have been updated, but experts point out that the data are not consistent in all areas, and that there are different research results, especially for musculoskeletal effects.

Attention is also drawn to product quality: according to a study examining dietary supplements, the gingerol content can vary significantly (0.0–9.43 mg/gram). The EMA mentions stomach upset, belching, heartburn and nausea among the possible side effects, so quality assurance and consumer information are also key issues for ginger-based products.

From the supply side, Europe currently imports ginger mainly from India, Nigeria and China, but in recent years experimental and small-scale cultivation has also started in Germany, Austria and Switzerland. Awarding the title could thus simultaneously strengthen demand for fresh ginger and ginger-containing products, and focus on transparent procurement, standardized active ingredient content and responsible communication.