Biochem/physiol Actions Bioactive compound found in ginger (Zingiber officinale) with antioxidant activity,1 which functions as an anti-inflammatory and antitumor agent. [6]-Gingerol down regulates proinflammatory cytokine release by macrophages.2 It has been shown to inhibit COX-2 expression by blocking the activation of p38 MAP kinase and NF-κB in phorbol ester-stimulated mouse skin.3