A tropical plant that’s a relative of turmeric and cardamom, ginger has been used as a spice and flavouring agent for years. Slightly peppery in taste, ginger is native to Asia and is commonly used to brew tea that’s both caffeinated and caffeine-free. Chai sometimes uses ginger, but it’s also used to make tea without tea leaves. It is made by steeping ginger in boiling water. Some people like to add lemon and honey to it for taste. Ginger tea is a good source of potassium, magnesium, copper, vitamin C and vitamin B6. Here are some health benefits of drinking ginger tea.
Helps with nausea
Sipping on ginger tea can help alleviate nausea, thanks to the antioxidants present in it. Ginger stimulates digestion and reduces intestinal cramps and bloating. The taste, being pungent, provides relief to a palate that might have otherwise overdosed on heavy, greasy food. Ginger’s pungency cuts through the oiliness of dishes that have the potential to cause nausea.
Regulates blood sugar
The antioxidants present in ginger tea help stop oxidative stress, and in turn regulate blood sugar levels (oxidative stress can lead to diabetes). Otherwise, oxidative stress can damage pancreatic cells that are responsible for the production of insulin, the hormone that transports glucose from the blood into the cells so that it can be used for energy.
Works as a painkiller
Inflammation can lead to pain in the muscles and joints. Since ginger is anti-inflammatory, it can help ease pain. Studies have found that ginger can help relieve the pain associated with migraines and menstrual cramps by inhibiting prostaglandins, which are compounds associated with pain. However, sufficient evidence for ginger being a painkiller is yet to be established.
Reduces high blood pressure
Ginger can inhibit the activity of the angiotensin-converting enzyme, which narrows blood vessels and increases blood pressure. The body produces this enzyme to regulate blood pressure, but eating foods high in saturated fat can lead to excess levels of it. This causes high blood pressure. Drinking ginger tea helps thwart ACE activity, leading to a reduction in blood pressure.
Reduces the risk of disease
Ginger tea is a good source of antioxidants like gingerols, shogaols, and paradols. These substances help combat oxidative stress, which in turn reduces the risk of chronic disease. Some lifestyle choices can increase the production of free radicals in the body, leading to cancer and heart disease. Ginger tea can work to stabilise free radicals so that they don’t cause damage.
