Ginger-PD
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Ginger-PD: Ginger as a modifier of ghrelin levels and gastrointestinal function in Parkinson’s disease
IRAS ID
359423
Contact name
Caroline Williams-Gray
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
University of Cambridge and Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Trust
Duration of Study in the UK
3 years, 0 months, 1 days
Research summary
Ginger is known for its beneficial effects on gut problems that are common in Parkinson’s disease (PD). Possible mechanisms of action include anti-inflammatory effects and increased levels of ghrelin, a gastric hormone that promotes gut motility and appetite. Our previous research suggests that people with Parkinson’s (PwP) and people at high risk of developing PD have low ghrelin levels and this is linked to higher levels of inflammation in the blood. In this study, 24 people with Parkinson’s, 24 people with REM Sleep Behaviour Disorder (at high risk of developing Parkinson’s), and 24 controls will take a ginger supplement for 12 weeks and we will investigate the effects on blood ghrelin levels, inflammation, and gut symptoms.
REC name
West Midlands - Black Country Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
25/WM/0215
Date of REC Opinion
27 Nov 2025
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion