Does Ginger Make Urine Darker?

Many people eat ginger candies or fresh ginger in the foods they consume, but you may have questions about how ginger may darken the color of your urine 3. Commonly available varieties of ginger are not likely to change the hue, but some types of ginger--wild ginger--might have an effect on urine color 3. Do not guess at the cause of urinary changes; see your physician, as darkened urine may indicate a medical problem.

About Ginger

Ginger, a rhizome of the Zingiber officinale plant used in baking, stir fries and other dishes, comes in a variety of forms--raw, candied, dried and powdered 3. It has long served as a home remedy for calming an upset stomach, and clinical evidence confirms its effectiveness for soothing inflammation associated with arthritis. Practitioners of natural medicine also believe ginger can serve as a treatment for colic, diarrhea, headaches, heart problems and menstrual pain, although as of date of publication no scientific proof bears out this use 3.

About Urine

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Urine is a substance your body produces in the kidneys, the purpose of which is to carry water, toxins and unneeded nutrients out of your body. The urine manufactured in the kidneys is stored in the bladder before it exits your body through the urethra during the act of urination. Normal urine may range in color from nearly clear to bright yellow; a change in urine color may be harmless or may indicate a health problem.

Ginger and Urine

While ginger normally available in your grocery store has no bearing on urine color, wild ginger may darken your urine 3. Wild ginger is not traditionally eaten, but you may find it used in Chinese medicines 3. Wild ginger contains aristolochic acid, a substance that negatively influences your kidneys 3. One symptom of aristolochic acid-triggered disease is blood in your urine, which can make it look significantly darker in color.

Foods That Influence Urine Color

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There are many foods that can change the color of your urine. Beets, blackberries and rhubarb can turn your urine red or pink, while fava beans and aloe can make your urine dark brown. Some food dyes can also turn your urine green or blue. Medications and medical conditions may also influence the hue of your urine.