Having previously demonstrated that polyphenolics in turmeric prevent bone resorption in arthritis and osteoporosis, the bone protective effects of structurally‐related polyphenols (gingerols) isolated from the rhizomes of ginger (Zingiber officialis L) were examined using the same experimental rat models. Three extracts were isolated: 1) a crude extract containing gingerols, essential oils and polar compounds, normalized to 26 mg gingerols/kg/d; 2) a gingerol fraction (26 mg/kg/d) and 3) an essential oil fraction (26mg/kg/d). All three extracts were bone protective in streptococcal cell wall (SCW)‐induced arthritis, preventing bone mineral density (BMD) loss as determined by dual energy absorptiometry (PIXIMUS). The crude extract was more effective than the gingerol‐only extract (80% vs. 51% inhibition, p < 0.05). The isolated essential oils were also bone protective (14% inhibition, p < 0.05). Preservation of BMD correlated with antiarthritic efficacy, suggesting that blockade of bone resorption occurred secondary to inhibition of joint inflammation. To test this hypothesis, crude extract was tested in a rat model of ovariectomy‐induced bone loss and found to be without effect. These data suggest that preservation of bone in an experimental model of arthritis occurs secondary to the anti‐inflammatory effects of both the polyphenols and essential oils of ginger. Research funded by NIH (NCCAM/ODS).