Ginger and its compounds perform a myriad of exciting functions within our bodies.
Because it acts as an antiemetic (aka: something that helps prevent vomiting,) ginger is traditionally used in cases of motion sickness, morning sickness, and post-surgical or because of chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting. Ginger has also been shown to speed up gastrointestinal emptying, so may be a potential treatment for chronic indigestion.
Ginger as a plant is closely related to turmeric, and like turmeric, also contains anti-inflammatory properties.