Antiemetic efficacy of ginger (Zingiber officinale) against cisplatin-induced emesis in dogs

Effect of ginger (Zingiber officinale Roscoe, Zingiberaceae) extracts (acetone, 50% ethanolic and aqueous) were investigated for antiemetic activity against emesis induced by 3 mg/kg cisplatin (the 100% emetic dose i.v.) in healthy mongrel dogs. The acetone and 50% ethanolic extract at the doses of 25, 50, 100 and 200 mg/kg p.o. exhibited significant protection while aqueous extract al these doses was ineffective against cisplatin emesis. The acetone extract was more effective than ethanolic extract. However, both were less effective when compared to 5-HT3 receptors antagonist-granisetron. Neither of the ginger extract was effective against apomorphine-induced emesis. The findings suggest that ginger could be an effective and cheap antiemetic adjunct to cancer chemotherapy. (C) 1997 Elsevier Science Ireland Ltd.