Ginger is rich in the aptly named gingerol, which is responsible for its flavor.    From Wordnik.com.  [FOXNews.com] Reference

As it turns out, gingerol is a powerful antioxidant and possible cancer fighter.    From Wordnik.com. Reference

That bite comes from gingerol, a chemical related to capsaicin, which gives chilies their heat.    From Wordnik.com. Reference

And as anyone who has munched gingersnaps on the high seas can tell you, gingerol helps relieve the nausea of motion sickness.    From Wordnik.com. Reference