Ginger has a long history of use as a traditional remedy. One popular way to consume it is in a tea made with either the fresh root or using a tea bag. Drinking ginger tea may have benefits for digestion, inflammation, and the common cold.
Ginger is native to Asia and is the flowering plant of the Zingiberaceae family. Its root, or stem, adds flavor to many types of cuisine, but is also an ancient herbal remedy for a host of ailments. Drinking ginger tea may help with everything from motion sickness to cancer prevention.
People can make ginger tea using fresh ginger or a store-bought tea bag. Although ginger is generally safe, some people may experience mild side effects — such as heartburn, diarrhea, gas, and abdominal pain — after consuming it.
What is ginger tea?
Ginger tea is made by infusing dried or fresh ginger in hot water for a few minutes, allowing the oils of the ginger to infuse into the water before drinking.
Ginger tea has a warming, slightly spicy taste. You can make your own by grating or slicing fresh ginger into a mug, or buy it as dried, loose pieces or in tea bags.
Health benefits of ginger tea
Good for Oral Health
Did you know a cup of ginger tea might be good for your teeth? Ginger contains antimicrobial and antifungal properties that can help to kill off harmful oral pathogens. This can help to improve your overall health and keep your teeth safe and healthy.Boosts Your Immune System
Ginger can help to boost your immune system and keep you safe and health. Ginger has potent antibacterial properties that can help to ward off dangerous pathogens and keep you safe and healthy. Ginger can also help to keep your immune system in tip-top shape thanks to its anti-inflammatory effects.May Help Ward Off Cancer
Thanks to its antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties, ginger may help to ward off certain types of cancer. Studies suggest that ginger may help inhibit the formation of cancer cells within the body. While ginger on its own may not be enough to prevent cancer, a cup of ginger tea can play a small role in keeping you healthy and warding off degenerative disease.Reduces Muscle Pain
Ginger has also been shown to help reduce pain and soothe sore muscles. One recent study found that consuming ginger can help treat muscle pain and soreness caused by exercise. Ginger has also been shown to help treat pain from chronic injuries and illnesses. Whether you’re an athlete looking for a tea that complements your workout regimen or just want to soothe aches and pains, a cup of ginger tea can be a great way to treat muscle pain.Soothes Nausea
A cup of ginger tea can be an easy, effective way to soothe nausea and calm upset stomachs. Ginger has been shown to help calm nausea and morning sickness associated with pregnancy, and can help you to feel better if you’re feeling queasy or experiencing nausea. Ginger tea is an easy, tasty way to help manage nausea and calm upset stomachs.Aids Digestion
Ginger tea is a powerful digestive aid. Studies show that consuming ginger can help to improve gastrointestinal symptoms and help the digestive system to work properly. Because of its soothing, beneficial properties, a cup of ginger tea is a great idea to enjoy after a rich meal or when you’re experiencing digestive trouble.Relieves Period Pain
If you’re suffering from menstrual pain, a cup of ginger tea can help to treat symptoms and ease cramping. In fact, one study suggests that consuming ginger may be just as effective as taking over the counter painkillers like ibuprofen. In another study, ginger was shown to successfully reduce both the duration and intensity of period pain.Fights Colds and Sore Throats
A cup of ginger tea can help to ward off symptoms of the common cold and painful sore throats. In particular, ginger contains antimicrobial properties that can help to fight off illnesses like strep throat. Ginger can also be used to help treat respiratory illnesses.
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Reduces Inflammation
Ginger tea has also been shown to help reduce inflammation, and has been used for centuries in herbal medicine for its powerful anti-inflammatory effects,. Recent studies back up claims that ginger contains powerful anti-inflammatory properties.Improves Cognitive Function
Ginger has also been shown to help improve cognitive function. A cup of ginger tea can help to increase concentration and focus and increase energy. While ginger has been used to boost brainpower in herbal medicine for hundreds of years, recent studies have shown that ginger’s cognitive benefits are backed by scientific evidence. A recent study showed that consuming ginger may aid in both attention and cognitive processing capabilities among middle-aged women. Ginger has also been shown to have possible positive effects when it comes to Alzheimer’s and other degenerative neurological diseases. Ginger may even help to mitigate brain damage and improve memory impairment.Side effects
Drinking ginger tea can have side effects, but you’re unlikely to experience problems unless you consume very large amounts. People most often report gas, bloating, heartburn, and nausea as ginger-related side effects. Since ginger may lower blood pressure and may have a blood thinning effect, people on blood thinners or blood pressure drugs, should consult their doctor before consuming extra ginger.How to make ginger tea
A person can make ginger tea using store-bought tea bags. However, if they want to make their own ginger tea, they can do so using:
- Fresh ginger: Boil thinly sliced pieces of ginger for a few minutes.
- Dried ginger: Pour boiling water over the dried ginger and let the tea steep.
- Powdered ginger: Stir a small amount of powdered ginger into some boiling water.
FAQs about Ginger Teas
Does ginger tea have caffeine?
Ginger root contains no caffeine, and many herbal tea blends that contain ginger are caffeine-free. That said, some caffeinated blends also contain ginger, like chai tea or lemon ginger green tea. Whether or not a particular tea contains caffeine will depend whether or not it contains true tea from the camellia sinensis plant.
Is ginger tea good before bed?
While ginger itself doesn’t contain any sleep-aiding properties, it can be a cozy cup of tea to enjoy before bed. Because ginger can help to reduce inflammation and pain, it can help to soothe your body if you’re dealing with sore muscles or aches and pain. Plus, ginger is often blended with other relaxing ingredients, like lemongrass and mint.
Does ginger tea have tannins?
Ginger doesn’t contain any tannins. However, it may be blended with other tannic ingredients, like black tea. If you’re concerned about tannins, you may want to choose an herbal tea with ginger in it instead.