Ginger is a very common kitchen ingredient used by people across the globe. Its distinctive aroma and flavor add zest to different cuisines.
It also has many medicinal benefits. Ginger is a good source of vitamins A, C, E and B-complex as well as magnesium, phosphorus, potassium, iron, zinc, calcium and beta-carotene.
In addition, it has anti-inflammatory, antinausea, antispasmodic, antifungal, antibacterial and antiviral properties that can help treat and prevent health issues.
You can eat ginger in different ways, but sipping on ginger tea is one of the best options. You can easily make this soothing beverage at home.
Ingredients:
- 4 to 6 thin slices of raw ginger
- 1½ to 2 cups of filtered water
- A little lemon juice
- 1 to 2 tablespoons of raw honey
Directions
1. Peel the ginger root and wash it thoroughly.
2. Slice the ginger into thin slices.
3. Bring 1½ cups of filtered water to a boil.
4. Add the ginger slices.
5. Put a lid on it and allow it to simmer for 10 minutes.
6. Strain the water to remove the ginger.
7. Squeeze in a little lemon as per your taste.
8. Add 1 to 2 tablespoons of raw honey.
9. Stir and enjoy your hot ginger tea.
NOTES:
- If you want a cold tea, put the tea in the refrigerator for 30 minutes. Add a few ice cubes before serving.
- As a variation, try steeping some fresh peppermint leaves, 1 small cinnamon stick or a few cardamom pods with the ginger to make a more refreshing tea.
- You can drink up to 3 cups of ginger tea daily. Avoid drinking ginger tea in excess, as it can cause many side effects.
- According to health experts, adults can take up to 4 grams of raw ginger root a day. To find out the right dose for children, consult your doctor.
Here are the top 10 health benefits of ginger tea:
1. Improves Blood Circulation
Ginger tea helps improve blood circulation to maintain optimum health.
The compounds like gingerols and zingerone in it have a warming effect
on the body, resulting in good circulation.
Good circulation throughout the body means more nutrients, minerals and oxygen reach different parts of the body. In addition, proper circulation promotes cell growth and functions of organs, such as the brain, heart, liver, kidneys and the limbs.
In addition, the amino acids in ginger play a key role in improving circulation that may help decrease the chance of cardiovascular problems.
2. Provides Pain Relief
Ginger contains a compound known as gingerol that has anti-inflammatory
properties. Moreover, ginger helps block COX-2, a chemical in the body
that causes pain. Its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties help
treat muscle and joint pain.
Drinking ginger tea regularly effectively helps treat pain associated with gout, rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis. Plus, it can reduce post-exercise inflammation and pain.
Moreover, it helps soothe migraine as well as tension headaches as it blocks prostaglandins from causing pain and inflammation in the brain’s blood vessels that cause headaches
3. Eases Menstrual Discomforts
One to two cups of ginger tea can effectively ease menstrual cramps and
other associated discomforts. It is also a good remedy for premenstrual
syndrome (PMS).
According to a 2014 study published in the journal ISRN Obstetrics and Gynecology, researchers found ginger to be effective in reducing the severity of PMS symptoms. It also helps fight fatigue associated with PMS.
The warm nature of ginger tea helps relieve pain and relax the muscles, thereby reducing menstrual cramps. Women dealing with irregular periods and those who experience heavy menstrual cramps may also find relief with ginger tea.
4. Relieves Nausea and Stomach Disorders
Whether you are suffering from nausea or vomiting, you can treat it
with a few cups of ginger tea. The active components like volatile oils
and phenol compounds in ginger root influence the nervous system,
stomach and intestines.
This in turn helps reduce nausea, vomiting and stomach disorders such as indigestion, gas, stomach pain, bloating and diarrhea. It also helps fight off the virus or bacteria that cause diarrhea or upset stomach.
Plus, ginger tea is effective in both pregnancy-related nausea and chemotherapy-induced nausea. Moreover, drinking a cup of ginger tea before traveling can help prevent nausea and vomiting due to motion sickness.
5. Strengthens Immunity
Ginger tea may help strengthen your immunity due to the antioxidant
properties in ginger. A strong immune system means that you’ll get sick
less often and recover more quickly when you do.
The warm nature of ginger helps break down toxins accumulated in the body, making it easier for the body to get rid of them.
Ginger also has antimicrobial, antiseptic, antibiotic and anti-inflammatory properties that can help prevent many common health problems and infections. In addition, it contains chromium, magnesium and zinc, which help boost the immune system.
6. Fights Respiratory Infections
You can drink ginger tea to fight respiratory infections. It has anti-inflammatory, antiviral, antifungal and immune-boosting properties
A few cups of warm ginger tea can help relieve congestion associated with the common cold, influenza or environmental allergies. In fact, sipping warm ginger tea when you feel a cold coming on can help stop a cold in its tracks.
In addition, it can help reduce airway inflammation and inhibit airway contraction when suffering from asthma. The polyphenols present in ginger help inhibit the secretion of mucus. It can also ease headaches and sore throats, two common symptoms of respiratory infections.
7. Reduces Cholesterol Levels
Ginger tea can also be beneficial for those who have high cholesterol as it helps increase the secretion of bile acids. Plus, due to its antioxidant properties, ginger prevents low density lipoprotein (LDL) oxidation.
It also helps improve metabolism, fight obesity and reduce high blood pressure. However, as ginger may interact with blood-thinning drugs, avoid excess intake of ginger tea. It is best to consult a doctor before including ginger in your diet.
Side Effects and Precautions:
Although there are many health benefits of drinking ginger tea daily, be aware that there are some side effects of ginger.
- Consuming too much ginger in any form can cause nausea, vomiting and diarrhea. It can also lead to acidity and low blood sugar. It may also prevent a good night’s sleep.
- Children under age 2 should not have ginger.
- Ginger may not be suitable for people suffering from a blood disorder, gallstones and some heart conditions. If you are taking medications, consult a doctor before including ginger in your diet.