薬理と治療

Abstract

Objective　This study focused on whether steamed ginger containing 6-shogaol ameliorates cold-related discomfort of the shoulder and lower back and promotes blood flow in healthy Japanese adults. Methods　We conducted a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial. After the screening stage, we randomly assigned individuals to the placebo group（n＝20）or steamed ginger group（n＝20）. The participants received the placebo or steamed ginger capsules for 8 weeks. To clarify the effect of steamed ginger, we measured skin and core body temperatures, finger, toe, and shoulder blood flows, and muscle stiffness and evaluated health-related quality of life（JLEQ, SF-8, and cold-related questionnaires）. We also conducted a cold water exposure test at week 0. Results　The steamed ginger did not affect skin or core body temperature, finger, toe, or shoulder blood flow, or muscle stiffness. The steamed ginger had no effect in the cold water exposure test. In contrast, some of the JLEQ and SF-8 items were improved in the steamed ginger group than in the placebo group. In the subgroup of individuals with a relatively low core body temperature, the steamed ginger promoted skin temperature recovery in the cold water exposure test compared with the placebo group. Conclusions　Steamed ginger improved cold-related physical and mental discomfort and promoted recovery of skin temperature after exposure to cold in individuals with a relatively low core body temperature. （UMIN ID：UMIN000043954）（Jpn Pharmacol Ther 2022；50：1381‒95）