Benefits of ginger tea
GINGER tea is often soothing with a special oomph. When you feel sick it can even boost your immune system. Ginger tea has a long history dating back to China some 5,000 years ago, where it was traditionally used as a health tonic. Ginger was introduced to Europe much later, originally as a culinary spice.
BBC Good food website states Ginger tea is probably most well-known for its potential to soothe digestive issues, and in particular for helping ease nausea.
One study even suggests it may be just as effective as some medications, but with fewer side effects, in the case of morning sickness.
Ginger contains key phytonutrients known as gingerols, and research has shown that these can have an antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effect which, when drunk as a tea, may have heath benefits.
A 2017 study found that those who consume ginger on a daily basis had a decreased risk of hypertension. While the study didn’t look specifically at ginger tea, it may be useful to consume ginger tea if you have high blood pressure.
There have been a few studies into the benefits of ginger when it comes to weight and obesity. A review of this research highlighted that ginger may have a positive impact on obesity through a number of different mechanisms, including appetite control and increasing thermogenesis (heat production). Again, this research is not specific to ginger tea, but it may be beneficial to include ginger tea as part of a balanced diet.
There’s been a fair amount of research into ginger and its pain-relieving properties, including its potential benefit for those who struggle with headaches and migraines. Drinking ginger tea, therefore, may also help both prevent and relieve headaches.
Ginger is high in antioxidants and has been shown to have antiproliferative effects on tumour cells, in particular pancreatic and colon cancer – consuming ginger tea regularly may offer a preventative effect.
Ginger has a distinctive taste and so, quite literally, may not be everyone’s cup of tea!
Some people may experience side effects from drinking ginger tea, such as bloating or heartburn, and because of its potential blood pressure-lowering effects, it should be consumed in moderation by those with low blood pressure or on any blood pressure medications.
Ginger tea can be consumed at any time of day. It works well as a pick-me-up first thing in the morning, but you may also find it helps after a meal to ease digestion.
You can add fresh lemon or honey, or buy different flavoured tea bags, such as lemon and ginger or ginger green tea to go with it.