Ginger tea is rich in substances that can help treat conditions like a sore throat and the common cold, as well as symptoms of indigestion such as nausea, cramps, and vomiting. It is also a potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory and can be used to help prevent diseases like cancer, diabetes, and obesity.

Ginger tea can also contribute to weight loss due to its diuretic and thermogenic properties that help reduce fluid retention and increase fat burning in the body.

Ginger tea can be prepared using fresh or ground ginger and can be consumed plain or by adding lemon, cinnamon, turmeric, or nutmeg for flavor as well as for additional nutritional benefits. In order to get the most health benefits, ginger tea should be included as one part of a healthy lifestyle that includes a well-balanced diet and regular physical exercise.

This content is solely for informative purposes and should not replace a medical consultation. Do not interrupt your current treatment without seeking medical guidance.

cup of ginger tea surrounded by fresh ginger

Health benefits

The main benefits of ginger tea include:

1. Relieving nausea and vomiting

Ginger tea has antiemetic properties that can help improve symptoms of nausea and vomiting. It can also help boost appetite and prevent weight loss in people undergoing chemotherapy.

2. Improving digestion

Ginger tea contains antioxidants that support stomach and liver function, helping to reduce intestinal gas and keep bowel movements regular.

3. Supporting weight loss

Ginger tea has diuretic properties that help reduce fluid retention in the body. It also has thermogenic properties that increase calorie and fat burning that can lead to weight loss.

The recommendation for weight loss is to drink 3 cups of ginger tea per day along with a healthy, well-balanced diet and regular physical exercise.

Check out how to lose weight with ginger tea.

4. Preventing diabetes

Ginger tea is rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatories, which can help improve the function of insulin, the hormone responsible for blood sugar control in the body. This can help prevent insulin resistance and diabetes.

5. Decreasing cancer risk

Gingerol and shogaol are natural compounds found in ginger that have both anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that help prevent cell damage caused by free radicals. In this way, ginger tea may help prevent certain types of cancer, such as pancreatic, skin, stomach, and colon cancer.

6. Reducing inflammation

Ginger tea contains anti-inflammatory compounds that can help manage problems like arthritis, rheumatism, and muscle pain.

7. Treating infections

Due to its antimicrobial effects, ginger tea can be used as a complementary therapy for the treatment of infections like influenza, the common cold, sore throat, and bronchitis.

8. Detoxing the liver

The anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties of ginger tea protect and strengthen liver function, helping to eliminate free radicals and other toxins (such as mercury) from the body.

9. Protecting against cardiovascular disease

The flavonoids found in ginger help improve blood flow (circulation) and elasticity of the arteries. In addition, these antioxidants help prevent the formation of arterial plaques, thereby decreasing the risk for conditions like heart attack, atherosclerosis, high blood pressure, and stroke.

How to make

Ingredients:

2 to 3 cm fresh ginger, grated;
180 mL (6 oz) water.

Another way to make ginger tea is by adding 1 Tbsp of ground ginger to 1 L (32 oz) of water.

Instructions:

Add the ginger and water to a pot and bring to a boil. Let boil for about 8 to 10 minutes. Remove from the heat, cover, and wait for it to cool slightly. Strain and drink immediately.

Recommendations: Drink 3 cups daily.

Additional recipes

Check out more easy and delicious recipes below:

1. Ginger lemonade

Ginger lemonade is a refreshing, low calorie drink that is high in fiber and vitamin C and is a great option for warmer days. The combination of ginger and lemon helps strengthen the immune system and improve health and well being.

Ingredients:

1 L (32 oz) water;
4 lemons;
5 g grated ginger (or substitute ground ginger).

Instructions:

Add the juice from 4 lemons to a pitcher along with the water and ginger. Place in the refrigerator and let sit for at least 30 minutes. For people who have trouble drinking plain water, drinking 1 L of this lemonade can replace drinking 1 L of water.

2. Ginger tea with cinnamon

Drinking ginger tea with cinnamon helps to lower fat accumulation in the body. Cinnamon can also help regulate blood sugar, reduce cholesterol and triglycerides, and lower blood pressure.

Instructions: add the cinnamon to the water along with the ginger. Bring to a boil on medium heat and let simmer for 5 to 10 minutes.

3. Ginger with turmeric

Ginger tea is a potent anti-inflammatory, while turmeric is known to be a powerful antioxidant. The combination of ginger and turmeric offers a variety of health benefits, including strengthening of the immune system, prevention of premature aging, and hormone regulation.

Instructions: add one piece of ginger to 500 mL (2 cups) of water and bring to a boil. When the water starts to boil, remove from the heat and add 2 tsp turmeric. Cover with a lid and let sit for 10 minutes before drinking.

4. Pineapple ginger juice

Pineapple ginger juice is a great option for hot days and to help with digestion. In addition to the digestive properties found in ginger, pineapple contains bromelain, an enzyme that helps with the digestion of proteins.

Instructions: To make the juice, blend the pineapple with one or two pieces of ginger and serve cold, without straining or adding sugar. You can also try adding mint and ice to improve the flavor.

Side effects

Drinking excessive amounts of ginger tea can cause heart arrhythmias. Depending on the amount ingested, some people may also present with stomach upset, diarrhea, cramping, elevated blood pressure, and dizziness.

Contraindications

Ginger tea is contraindicated in people with gallstones, gastritis, and high blood pressure. Due to an increased risk for hemorrhage, ginger tea should not be consumed by people with circulatory issues or who are being treated with anticoagulants. It should not be given to children under 6 years of age.

While ginger is generally considered safe during pregnancy, it is important to talk to your OBGYN or midwife before drinking ginger tea. This is due to a lack of information regarding the maximum dose considered to be safe in pregnancy.