We all know what ginger is and its vital role in maintaining good health. It's one of the things we turn to when we're feeling under the weather and is also a traditional spice to culinary delicacies. Indeed, the world would not be the same without ginger.  

In this article, we will be talking about ginger tea. There's just something about this beverage beyond its warm and invigorating taste that would make it a worthy alternative to black tea or even coffee. But did you know that unlike them, ginger tea is actually caffeine-free?

Read on to find out more about ginger tea benefits, ginger tea recipes, and ginger tea side effects.

What is ginger tea? 

Ginger tea is made from ginger, an underground stem of the plant Zingiber officinale. The same plant family includes turmeric, galangal, and cardamom. Since ginger has been used for so many years as a medicinal plant, it's no surprise why people often drink ginger tea for health purposes. It's a known treatment for sore throat and colds, as well as many other aspects of our health. But organic ginger tea is more than just an herbal tea for medicinal reasons, its strong and slightly spicy taste makes it a unique type of tea that will give you a warm, soothing feeling. 

While drinking fresh ginger tea is generally deemed safe, it's important to drink it only in moderation. 

Characteristics of ginger tea

• Ginger grows best in areas with humid climates. The ginger plant looks physically similar to bamboo and produces pink and white flower buds that eventually bloom into yellow flowers. 
• Before it became globally popular, the cultivation of ginger first started in South Asia. The main producers of ginger as of today are China and India as well as Brazil and Jamaica. 
• Good ginger tea is made from one that has firm, robust roots, smooth skin, and a spicy fragrance. If you are trying to make a homemade ginger tea, make sure that you buy this type of ginger from grocery stores or supermarkets. 

What are the health benefits ginger tea can give? 

There are numerous organic ginger tea benefits. Check them out in detail below:

1. Ginger tea for flatulence and indigestion 

What is a tea mostly known for other than being a good digestive aid, right? One of the main benefits of drinking fresh ginger tea is promoting a good digestive system. A particular 2019 review claimed that organic ginger tea helps with preventing flatulence and indigestion, decreasing the pressure on the lower esophageal sphincter and reducing the feeling of bloating and cramping. It is believed that ginger tea possesses the qualities that help reduce the risk of developing gastrointestinal problems. 

2. Ginger tea for throat and colds

Drinking ginger tea for throat problems and colds is nothing new. It's believed that pure ginger tea is ideal for relieving sore throats or easing congestion. In fact, a 2011 study found that ginger was more effective in fighting the bacteria that caused streptococcal pharyngitis than some antibiotics. Years later in 2013, another laboratory study discovered the effectiveness of ginger against the human respiratory syncytial virus. Other research implies that honey lemon ginger tea can even combat certain bacterias better. So if you're planning to make your homemade ginger tea, it might be better to add honey to it. 

3. Ginger tea for headache and nausea 

Is it also possible to drink ginger tea for headaches? Yes, and it can aid with nausea too. When your headache is starting, drinking ginger tea might help. Meanwhile, a 2015 review states that ginger tea might help with nausea and vomiting that are caused by motion sickness, chemotherapy, and also pregnancy. However, pregnant women must first consult with their primary doctor or healthcare professional about drinking ginger tea. 

4. Ginger tea for pain relief 

While ginger tea can't cure the pain of heartbreak, it does appear to be a valuable tool in relieving other forms of physical pain. Ginger possesses anti-inflammatory properties and is a known contributing factor for chronic pain. According to previous research, ginger is good for relieving muscle pain after intense physical activity. There is also evidence suggesting that drinking ginger tea may be beneficial for those struggling with osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. 

5. Ginger tea for blood pressure 

One of the benefits ginger tea provides is a way to lower blood pressure. It also helps in decreasing the risk of developing coronary heart disease. If you're trying to avoid high blood pressure, drinking fresh ginger tea is good especially if you accompany it with proper diet and exercise. 

6. Ginger tea for weight management 

If you're trying to burn calories, then ginger tea is right for you. It is believed that drinking ginger tea would help those who are trying to lose weight. This 2018 review found that ginger helps promote weight loss and weight management in subjects facing obesity due to its ability to increase thermogenesis while reducing intestinal fat absorption and regulating the appetite. 

Making ginger tea: best ginger tea recipes you should try

Making ginger tea is as easy as pie. It doesn't take long and you will only be needing a few ingredients (depending on what you want to add). You can opt to purchase dried ginger tea or you can create your own homemade ginger tea! Here fun recipes for pure ginger tea that you can try: 

Easy pure ginger tea

This is the recipe for making your basic organic ginger tea. It's for 1 serving. 

Ingredients: 

• 1 to 2 slices of ginger root
• 1 cup boiling water
• Honey (optional)

Directions:

• Slice up the ginger roots. Put the sliced pieces in a cup.
• Boil the water and then put it into the cup with the sliced ginger roots. Let it steep for 5 to 10 minutes. 
• Add some honey to the pure ginger tea, if you like. 

Turmeric ginger tea 

Turmeric is often mistaken for ginger. The two are different but come from the same plant species. Here's how you can make a tasty turmeric ginger tea: 

Ingredients: 

• 1 to 2 slices of ginger root
• 1 cup boiling water 
• 1 teaspoon of turmeric powder/ground turmeric
• 1 dash of black pepper 
• Honey (optional)

Directions: 

• Slice up the ginger roots. Put them inside your cup.
• Boil the water and add it to the cup with ginger roots. Add turmeric and black pepper. Stir well. 
• Let it steep for 5 to 10 minutes. 
• Add honey to sweeten it up. 

Honey lemon ginger tea 

Making honey lemon ginger tea is just like preparing basic ginger tea, except that you will add lemon juice (or lime) to enhance the flavor and make it tastier. 

What are the side effects of ginger tea? 

Yes, ginger tea is generally safe and good for health. However, there are cases that it brings side effects but it happens rarely. Just to be sure, check out the following possible side effects of ginger tea: 

• Upset stomach or abdominal discomfort - Didn't we just say ginger tea aids in proper digestion? It does, but that doesn't mean drinking it excessively cannot trigger an upset stomach or diarrhea in some people. That's why it's important to drink ginger tea in moderation. 
• Heartburn - This is an uncommon side effect but according to this 2020 review, it was reported that subjects who consumed 500 to 2,000 mg of ginger every day experienced heartburn. 
• Slowed blood clotting - Ginger may slow down blood clotting which is why it's advised not to consume ginger at least two weeks before and after surgery. Also, people with bleeding disorders or those who are taking anticoagulant or antiplatelet medications and supplements are prohibited from consuming ginger.

Precautions of drinking ginger tea 

Is it safe to drink ginger tea every day? 

Yes, it is okay to drink ginger tea every day. It does bring a lot of benefits to the body. However, remember to keep it to a certain minimum. Do not drink it too much for it might lead to health complications. The recommended maximum amount of ginger tea intake per day is 4 grams of ginger (or less than 2 tablespoons). 

Is ginger tea safe during pregnancy?

For pregnant women or lactating women, it is generally safe however please consult primary doctor or healthcare professional about drinking ginger tea. 

When should I not drink ginger tea?

Everybody can drink ginger tea. However, if you are experiencing cases of high blood pressure, heartburn, acid reflux, gallstones, or diabetes, you must consult with your doctor first if you can drink ginger tea regularly. There might be limitations and precautions that you have to consider. 

Looking for the best ginger tea?

Ginger tea is indeed tasteful and beneficial to our health. Its strong, spicy flavor gives it a certain edge compared to other types of teas. It's also something nice to drink in case you want to maintain a healthy lifestyle. However, despite all the claims and studies, let us keep in mind that we cannot completely use ginger tea as a substitute for treatment coming from health professionals. It's still important that we consult doctors and remain physically active to help improve our overall quality of life. But at least we know we can drink a warm cup of ginger tea to enjoy life a little better.