Research
A research consciousness underpins all aspects of RATO Health’s practice. Nursing is a holistic practice and at RATO Health this encompasses careful consideration of what is most appropriate at any given time.
Ginger Therapy is an ideal complementary therapy for arthritis and a number of other chronic health conditions.
Lilipoh:
Pilot Study
This pilot study compared the effect of a standardised ginger patch with the traditional ginger compress for people with osteoarthritis.
"Ginger therapy has potential for people with osteoarthritis for whom conventional treatments provide insufficient pain relief"
Topical ginger treatment with a compress or patch for osteoarthritis symptoms
The effect of ginger therapy on symptoms of osteoarthritis: an open pilot study
Poster:
Effect of ginger therapy on symptoms of osteoarthritis
Presented to American College of Rheumatology Conference Nov 2012

PhD & Master in Research
The research methodology of phenomenology has proved most effective in advancing research of anthroposophic nursing external applications. Phenomenology in human research is focused on understanding the phenomenon as consciously experienced and described by human beings. When the person is experiencing external applications, such as compresses and rhythmical massage, a methodology is required that explores all dimensions of these modern day treatments.
“The essential experience of ginger therapy (ginger compresses) for people with osteoarthritis exposed the unique qualities of heat, stimulation, relaxation and analgesia."
Journal of Advanced Nursing:
Ginger therapy for adults with osteoarthritis
Indo-Pacific Journal of Phenomenology (IPJP):
Experience of ginger compresses
Poster:
Ginger therapy (compresses) for osteoarthritis
Presented to Anthroposophic Medical Conference on Rheumatology Sept 2010
Der Merkurstab - An Anthroposophic Perspective:
Topical ginger for the chronic inflammatory condition of osteoarthritis
Previous Research of Ginger Compress
The original unpublished ginger compress research which was completed at the Filderklinik, Stuttgart, Germany in the early 1990's has been translated. To obtain a copy see Publications for "Study of the External Application of Ginger".