8Shogaol

8-Shogaol is a phenolic ketone in the ginger family (Zingiber officinale) and one of the major bioactive constituents found in ginger. It is formed from dehydration of 8-gingerol during heating or drying, making it part of the shogaol group that arises when gingerols undergo processing.

Chemically, 8-shogaol is an α,β-unsaturated ketone with a hydroxyphenylpropyl side chain. The dehydration that converts gingerol to shogaol introduces a carbon–carbon double bond in the side chain, producing the characteristic enone moiety of shogaols. Among ginger constituents, shogaols differ from gingerols in both structure and reactivity, and the 8-shogaol isomer is one of several positional variants (including 6- and 10-shogaol).

Occurrence and formation are influenced by processing. Fresh ginger contains more gingerols, while dried, powdered, roasted, or otherwise heat-treated ginger tends to harbor higher levels of shogaols, including 8-shogaol, due to dehydration reactions during heating.

Biological activity and research use. 8-Shogaol has been studied for anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antiemetic properties in vitro and in animal models. It is thought to contribute to the pharmacological effects attributed to ginger, potentially through inhibition of inflammatory pathways such as COX-2 and NF-κB, and through antioxidant mechanisms. Some studies report that shogaols may be more potent than corresponding gingerols in certain assays, though human data are limited and effects can depend on dose and formulation. Bioavailability is variable, and metabolism typically involves conjugation pathways.

Safety and availability. In common culinary use, 8-shogaol-containing ginger is considered safe for most people. High-dose use or concentrated supplements may cause gastrointestinal discomfort or interact with anticoagulant or antiplatelet medications. As with other herbal constituents, suitability of supplements should be discussed with a healthcare professional.

See also: gingerol, shogaol, 6-shogaol, 8-gingerol.