How to Make Ginger Tea in your Home?  Benefits and Risk

Last updated on June 29th, 2023 at 02:37 pm

10 minutes read. 

       

Record show that the Ancient Chinese, Africa, Romans, Greeks, and Arabs all relied upon ginger root and other herbs in one way or another, at a time when anti-nausea and anti-inflammatory synthetic medications didn’t exist and they lived long and healthy. (3)

Ginger is consumed in multiple ways in people’s medicine, including in the form of ginger tea. You can make ginger tea by boiling either peeled hand-scraped ginger roots in water or milk.

You can certainly find dried ginger tea bags in most grocery stores, but there’s nothing like fresh ginger tea. When you make your own ginger tea from fresh ginger it helps you get all the benefits and know exactly the content of what you are drinking.

If you haven’t tried this at home before, give it a try today after learning the simple guide am going to give you here.

Let’s jump in. Feel free to skip ahead:

In this article

• What is Ginger tea?
• Why’s Ginger tea so good for you?
• Health Benefits
• Nutrition Facts
• How to make Ginger tea?
• Risk and Side Effects
• Conclusion

What’s Ginger tea?

Ginger tea is a ginger tonic made by boiling either fresh peeled or hand-scraped ginger in water or in milk.

In folk medicine, people often use it to treat coughs and the flu, among other ailments. It has traditionally been used in numerous forms, including fresh, pickled, powdered, dried, candied, preserved, and crystallized. (1, 2)

Why’s Ginger So Good for You?

However, it’s only in recent years that we’ve begun to uncover exactly why ginger is so good for you and the powerful effect that it can have on your health.

Research shows that ginger contains many valuable compounds like gingerol, shogaol, paradol, and zingerone. Gingerol, in particular, is considered to account for most of the beneficial effects of ginger. (4,5)

Some studies have found that gingerol can even effectively inhibit inflammation. (6, 7)

While inflammation is a perfectly normal immune response, chronic inflammation is thought to be at the root of conditions like cancer, diabetes, and heart disease.

Thanks to its gingerol content, ginger makes the list of top anti-inflammatory foods and has been used as a natural treatment for many inflammatory conditions, ranging from arthritis to Alzheimer’s.

Not only that, but ginger has also been found to be effective in fighting against pathogenic strains of viruses, fungi, and bacteria that contribute to disease. (8)

Recent studies continue to unearth the many ways that ginger affects health, and so far it has been shown to boast some impressive benefits.

From relieving nausea to boosting brain health, enhancing weight loss, and controlling blood sugar, a cup or two of ginger tea each day has the potential to make a big impact on your health. (You also may want to try to make ginger shots, which also feature other healthy ingredients.)

Health Benefits

Here are some of the known and proven benefits of drinking fresh ginger tea:

1. Provide relief from motion sickness

Folk medicine suggests that ginger tea can help calm motion sickness symptoms, like dizziness, vomiting, and cold sweats.

One 1988 study of 80 naval cadets unaccustomed to sailing in heavy seas determined that those who received 1 gram of powdered ginger reported reduced vomiting and cold sweating. (9)

Although researchers don’t understand exactly how ginger works, some have suggested that certain compounds in ginger block a brain receptor that has a key role in the vomiting center of the brain. (10)

However, current research is limited or inconclusive. (11)

Yet, if you experience nausea from time to time, ginger tea may be a good treatment to try.

2. Alleviate nausea from morning sickness or chemotherapy

Some experts believe gingerols in ginger can help relieve nausea caused by pregnancy, chemotherapy, or surgery.

Researchers suggest that ginger might be an effective and inexpensive alternative to traditional anti-nausea drugs in people who are pregnant or undergoing chemotherapy and can’t have conventional medicines. (11, 12, 13,14)

One study of 92 women found that ginger was more effective than a standard drug at preventing postoperative nausea and vomiting caused by general anesthesia. (15, 16)

Nevertheless, be sure to check with a healthcare professional before using ginger after surgery. It may interfere with blood clotting — although research on this is still emerging and more is needed to investigate it further. (17)

3. Help manage blood pressure and support heart health

Research suggests that consuming ginger in daily doses of 2 to 6 grams may help protect against heart disease. (18)

Ginger may do this by lowering blood pressure, helping prevent heart attacks, helping prevent blood clots, relieving heartburn, lowering cholesterol, and improving blood circulation.(18, 19)

4. Help manage weight and blood sugar levels

A lot of research shows that consuming ginger has beneficial effects on weight and blood sugar management.

Research suggests that ginger may help manage body weight by increasing thermogenesis the production of heat by your body which helps burn fat, increases the breakdown of fats for energy, inhibits fat storage, inhibits fat absorption, and helps control appetite. (20,21)

In addition, ginger helps improves blood sugar control in people with type 2 diabetes and obesity by reducing fasting insulin levels, hemoglobin A1C, and triglycerides. Hemoglobin A1C is an indication of your blood sugar levels over the past 2 to 3 months. (22,23,24)

5. Relieve pain and inflammation

People have used ginger to treat inflammation for centuries, and now science backs up this practice for certain uses. (25)

Research shows that the compounds in ginger called gingerol and shogaol help reduce the production of pro-inflammatory markers

People have particularly studied ginger for its effectiveness in relieving pain from osteoarthritis of the knee. (26,27)

Ginger tea may also help alleviate menstrual cramps if you take it at the start of your period. Research shows it may be equally or more effective than over-the-counter pain relief medications. (28,29,30,31)

6. Have cancer-fighting properties

Studies have even shown that ginger may help prevent cancer, mostly due to its gingerol and shogaol content. (32)

Test-tube studies have shown that gingerol and shogaol may contribute to ginger’s cancer-fighting properties by causing cell death and preventing cancer cell multiplication and growth. (33)

Other test-tube studies have shown that ginger may affect several different types of cancer cells, including pancreatic, colon, colorectal, ovarian, prostate, and lung cancers. (34,35)

More studies on the effects of ginger and ginger tea on cancer in humans are needed.

7.  Protect your brain

Scientists have studied ginger’s protective effects against oxidative stress and inflammation two factors that play a decisive role in the development of brain degenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer’s disease. (36)

Animal studies show that gingerol and shogaol may offer protection against age-associated decline of brain functions due to their antioxidant properties.

Test-tube studies also suggest that ginger extract may increase cell survival against beta-amyloid a protein closely related to Alzheimer’s disease that can induce toxicity in brain cells.(36)

Compounds such as gingerol and shogaol in ginger may offer beneficial effects for nausea, pain, inflammation, heart health, diabetes, cancer, and brain health.

I hope you’re getting value.

Risk and Side Effects

 Ginger tea is unlikely to cause serious side effects.

Ginger is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), including for those who are breastfeeding or breastfeeding. The FDA says it is safe to consume up to 4 grams of ginger daily. However, these amounts are generally not reached in studies.(37)

While there is no consensus on the correct dosage for ginger, studies recommend a safe daily dose of 1,000 mg of fresh ginger.

This is the equivalent of 1 teaspoon (5 mL) of freshly grated ginger extract, 0.4 teaspoons (2 mL) of liquid ginger extract, 4 cups (946 mL) of prepackaged ginger tea, or 2 teaspoons (10 mL) of ginger syrup (1)

This is the equivalent of 1 teaspoon (5 mL) of freshly grated ginger extract, 0.4 teaspoons (2 mL) of liquid ginger extract, 4 cups (946 mL) of prepackaged ginger tea, or 2 teaspoons (10 mL) of ginger syrup

Note that ginger tea is likely less concentrated than these forms of ginger. So, while drinking ginger tea may have side effects, you’re unlikely to experience them if you drink only one or two cups.

Note that ginger tea is likely less concentrated than these forms of ginger. So, while drinking ginger tea may have side effects, you’re unlikely to experience them if you drink only one or two cups.

That said, if you think you’re experiencing side effects from drinking ginger tea, stop drinking it right away and consider speaking with a healthcare professional about your symptoms.

When people do experience side effects from consuming ginger, they most often report gas, bloating, nausea, and heartburn or reflux. Other reported symptoms include diarrhea and abdominal pain

Since ginger may lower blood pressure and may have a blood-thinning effect, people on blood thinners or blood pressure medications should consult their healthcare professional before consuming extra ginger

Some of the most common side effects of drinking large amounts of ginger tea are gas, bloating, heartburn, and nausea. Studies recommend keeping your intake of prepackaged ginger tea under 4 cups per day. (38)

How to Make Ginger Tea?

Ginger tea is very easy to make. First, it’s important to use ginger root rather than ginger powder, as it contains more active and therapeutic compounds.

There are two easy ways to make Ginger tea; the first method is boiling with water while the second method is boiling with milk. (39)

First Method

Boiling with water

Step one

Look for fresh ginger root that has a thin, shiny skin that can easily be scraped with your fingernail.

Step two

Simply wash about a two-inch knob of ginger root and slice finely. No need to peel but make sure all dirt is cleaned off.

Step three

Remove the pot from the stove and strain the tea into a couple of mugs. Add fresh lemon juice from half a squeezed lemon along with one-fourth teaspoon of turmeric.

Optional, add raw honey or maple syrup if you desire some sweetness. You can also add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a cinnamon stick for an extra kick.

Step four

Store any extra in the refrigerator for one to two days. Drink one to three cups daily to maximize the health benefits.

Second Method

Boiling with Water

Step one

Boil ginger root slices in 1 cup (237 mL) water for 10 minutes.

Step two

Remove from heat and add 2 cups (473 mL) of milk.

Step three

 Put the pot back on the stove and gently simmer milk and ginger for 5 minutes.

Serve in your favorite mugs.

Depending on why you’re consuming fresh ginger tea, you may want to add other optional ingredients that support detoxification and your immune system. Here are several synergistic ingredients that make great additions to fresh ginger tea:

Turmeric: Provides the active compound called curcumin, which has demonstrated healthy inflammation support and antioxidant effects. May help to improve digestive processes and is also considered a warming spice, supporting your metabolism.

Lemon juice: Helps trick the liver into producing bile, which helps keep food moving through your body and gastrointestinal tract. May also help reduce indigestion and bloating.

Raw honey: This is a nutrient-dense, natural sweetener that provides you with enzymes and antioxidants that have been shown to support immune function.

Cayenne pepper: Contains the chemical called capsaicin, which has circulation-boosting abilities and the power to support digestion. It may help stimulate the release of enzymes which can help to curb an upset stomach, loss and appetite, and cramps

Nutrition Facts

In addition to providing us with powerful phytonutrients, ginger root also contains small amounts of potassium, copper, manganese, magnesium, and vitamin C.

One serving of fresh ginger tea (about one cup) made using the recipe above with raw honey contains roughly the following:

• 40 calories
• nearly 0 grams of protein, fiber, and fat
• 8 grams sugar
• 9 grams carbohydrates

Are you curious about other ways to use ginger root once you’ve purchased it? It can be eaten fresh or ground, juiced, or infused into your favorite beverages.

Try using it to make a homemade cough syrup with peppermint, or add a few tablespoons to a relaxing hot bath with lavender oil. You can also make ginger water or even ginger shots.

With its sharp, peppery flavor, you can also use it in stir-fried, smoothies, soups, or vegetable juices for an extra bit of flavor and to increase the nutrient content.

Risks and Side Effects

Although uncommon, some people may have an allergy to ginger. If you experience any food allergy symptoms, such as hives, itching, or swelling, after drinking ginger tea, discontinue use immediately and talk to your doctor.

In addition, ginger tea has been associated with mild side effects like heartburn, diarrhea, and stomach pain. If you notice any of these symptoms, decrease consumption and try consuming after meals.

If the side effect continues, stop consuming ginger tea and try using it to prepare food like stew, soup, sauce, and meat, watch the Symptoms if it continues just know that your body system can’t tolerate Ginger. So discontinue using and try other natural spices.

Frequently ask question

Can ginger water work as a detox?

Answer

Detox rituals aim to slowly rid your body of toxins over time. Some people use ginger water mixed with lemon juice as a detox. There is only anecdotal evidence to support this use.

Since ginger may fight germs, illness, inflammation, and cancer-causing molecules, taking a little bit every day can support your overall health. Ginger is a natural root, so drinking it will also give you added nutrients.

Is ginger water safe during pregnancy?

Answer

Scientific researchers have looked at the role ginger may play in helping treat nausea and vomiting in pregnancy.

One study noted that the evidence supports the efficacy of ginger for the treatment of pregnancy nausea, but that there may be safety risks for some women. A systematic review of studies, however, found no adverse effects caused by ginger consumption in pregnant women.

Talk to your doctor before taking any supplements or herbs during pregnancy. In some cases, diet and lifestyle changes may help reduce nausea in pregnancy:

eat regular, small meals

avoid greasy or spicy foods, since they may upset your stomach

sleep at least 6 hours each night

stay hydrated (drink enough water)

 Conclusion

Ginger tea is a ginger tonic made by boiling either fresh peeled or hand-scraped ginger in water or in milk. Depending on your goal for drinking ginger tea, you may try a pinch of turmeric, lemon juice, raw honey, cayenne pepper

Research shows that ginger contains many valuable compounds like gingerol, shogaol, paradol, and zingerone. Gingerol, in particular, is considered to account for most of the beneficial effects of ginger. Other nutrients include vitamin C, potassium, copper, manganese, magnesium

Drinking ginger tea can benefit you in many ways such as: Providing relief from motion sickness, Alleviate nausea from morning sickness or chemotherapy, Helping manage blood pressure and support heart health, Helping manage weight and blood sugar levels, Relieving pain and inflammation, and Have cancer-fighting properties Protect your brain.

Ginger tea is generally considered safe for most people however drinking in excess can cause some mild side effects like heartburn, bloating stomach pain, diarrhea, and increased ulcers, and can drastically reduce blood sugar in people with type 2 diabetes.

If you notice such symptoms reduce the quantity or try taking after a meal or using it in little amounts to prepare your favorite foods. If you experience allergies like itching or swelling discontinue and consult your health care. If you’re on blood thinner keep off from ginger tea.

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