Ginger extract attenuates ethanol-induced pulmonary histological changes and oxidative stress in rats

Chronic ethanol consumption is associated with changes in the function and structure of the lungs. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of chronic ethanol exposure on the lungs and whether ginger extract mitigated pulmonary abnormalities induced by ethanol in rats. Male Wistar rats were divided into the control group, the ethanol group, and the ethanol plus ginger extract group. Six weeks of ethanol treatment increased the proliferation of lung cells, and induced fibrosis, inflammation and leukocyte infiltration. A significant rise in the level of 8-hydroxydeoxyguanosine, NADPH oxidase, and oxidized low-density lipoprotein was also observed. Ginger extract significantly ameliorated the above changes. These findings indicate that ethanol induces abnormalities in the lungs by oxidative DNA damage and oxidative stress, and that these effects can be alleviated by ginger, which may function as an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agent.