Ginger oil smells just like fresh ginger root: warm, spicy and a little earthy. It's one of the best oils for cold-weather massage and cozy diffuser blends.
What is ginger essential oil?
Ginger oil is steam-distilled from the root (rhizome) of Zingiber officinale, the same ginger used in cooking.
Benefits of ginger oil
1. A warming massage oil
Ginger creates a gentle sense of warmth on the skin, which is why it's so popular in massage blends for tired muscles, stiff shoulders and cold hands and feet. In one small study, a massage oil with ginger and orange eased knee discomfort in the short term.
2. May help with occasional queasiness
Some studies suggest that inhaling ginger oil may help ease nausea, for example after surgery. Smelling it from the bottle or a tissue is the simplest way to try it. (If you're pregnant, talk to your doctor before using essential oils.)
3. Cozy, grounding scent
Ginger adds depth and warmth to diffuser blends, especially in fall and winter.
How to use ginger oil
- Massage oil: 4–5 drops in 1 tablespoon (15 ml) of carrier oil such as argan oil.
- Inhale: 1–2 drops on a tissue, breathed in gently.
- Diffuser: 2–3 drops, blended with a citrus oil.
- Foot soak: 3 drops mixed into a tablespoon of carrier oil, then added to warm water.
Ginger blends well with
Orange, lemon, turmeric, lemongrass and vanilla. For a "winter warmth" massage oil, try 3 drops ginger + 3 drops orange in 1 tablespoon of argan oil.
Side effects and safety tips
- Always dilute before skin use and patch test first. Ginger can feel warm on sensitive skin.
- Don't swallow essential oils. Ginger tea is great; ginger essential oil is not for drinking.
- Check with your doctor if pregnant, breastfeeding or managing a medical condition.
- Keep away from children and pets.
More on safe use: Essential oil dilution guidelines.
Frequently asked questions
Is ginger oil good for hair growth?
It's a popular claim, but there's no reliable evidence that ginger oil grows hair. For scalp care with more research behind it, see our rosemary oil guide.
Does ginger oil help joint pain?
A warming ginger massage can feel soothing, and a small study found short-term relief for knee discomfort. It's not a treatment for arthritis; talk to your doctor about ongoing pain.
Can I use ginger oil for nausea during pregnancy?
Check with your doctor or midwife first before using any essential oil while pregnant.
Is ginger essential oil the same as ginger extract?
No. Essential oil is a concentrated aromatic oil for external use; extracts and powders are for cooking or supplements.
Shop organic ginger oil
Our Organic Ginger Essential Oil is 100% pure, undiluted and certified organic, in a 10 ml glass bottle. It's also included in our Organic Essential Oils Kit.