Most people that know me, know I that I prefer to drink coffee over tea. Perhaps because my parents were both coffee drinkers. I honestly never drank coffee until I was studying for my Naturopathic final board exams (ironically enough!). The one tea that I would set aside my morning cup of Joe for would be ginger tea (peppermint tea being a close second!). Ginger has such wonderful warming, invigorating and soothing qualities to it. This spice is easily obtained and is a very affordable to make it fresh from the ginger root. Having received much benefit from ginger, I thought I would do a quick write-up on ginger’s various benefits and how to make yourself a fresh cup of ginger tea in your own kitchen!

Ginger root, Latin Zingiber officinale, is a spice that has been used traditionally in countries, such as India, to enhance and remedy digestive issues. Animal studies have shown various beneficial properties, including: hypoglycemic (reduces blood sugar), reduction in cholesterol and digestion enhancing properties. Human pharmacological study has indicated that it has anti-inflammatory effects in conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis. It has been shown to inhibit prostaglandins, which generally results in inflammation and can lead to pain.

To sum it up. Ginger has the following benefits:

• Can reduce nausea and motion sickness
• Stimulates peripheral circulation aiding with cramps and bad circulation
• As a diaphoretic (enhances productive sweating), aids in the detoxification of the body and helps in feverish conditions
• As a gargle, it can relieve sore throats
• Can aid in one’s overall digestive process as a carminative, antispasmodic and an appetite stimulant
• Can be applied externally for muscle strains
• Can reduce  inflammation in the body and for conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis

…And it tastes great!!!

How to make a simple cup of ginger tea from the root:

Simply go to your local grocery store or market to pick up the root. Cut off the outside bark of the spice and grate 1 teaspoon of fresh ginger root, place in 1 cup of boiling water and infuse for 5 minutes. Enjoy!

Safety considerations in the literature indicate to use with caution with anti-coagulant drugs, and not to use more than 2 grams of the dried ginger during pregnancy. Always seek the advice of your Health Care provider if you decide to use it.

Always keep in mind that just because it is simple, doesn’t mean it is not effective. Medicines can be found in various spices and foods, not just herbs. Learn the simple things that you can do to improve your health to empower yourself and your health!

Sources:

Hoffmann, D. (2003). Medical Herbalism: The Science and Practice Of Herbal Medicine. Rochester, Vermont. Healing Arts Press.