Ginger Tea For Colds: A Warm, Relaxing Home Remedy
- by Annette Kerckhoff
- 🕒 4 Min
Boosting Immune Response with Ginger Tea: A Homemade Remedy for Cold Relief - The Effects of Ginger Tea on Colds and Its Preparation Methods
Why do we love sipping ginger tea? Turns out, this popular home remedy has cold-fighting powers backed by science. Gone are the days of folk medicine and superstition, as we delve deeper into the beneficial effects of this aromatic root.
Ginger: A Versatile Healer
Ginger hails from Asia but has long been a staple in the European kitchen. Whether in the form of a comforting gingerbread or a refreshing ginger ale, ginger has been part of our culinary culture for centuries. But what about its use as a home remedy?
Traditionally, ginger has been applied for colds, coughs, hoarseness, and a host of other ailments, but does it hold up in the realm of scientific medicine?
Warming Digestive Properties
Officially, ginger is known for its effects on the digestive system. By stimulating saliva production, increasing stomach acid, and promoting peristalsis (i.e., intestinal muscle contraction), ginger aids in digestion, making it a popular remedy for nausea and related issues.
Ginger: A Cold-Fighter?
So, what about that soothing ginger tea du jour? Will it help combat colds, coughs, hoarseness, and sniffles?
To understand the role of ginger in treating colds, let's take a peek into the history of medicine. In times past, illnesses were attributed to an excess or lack of certain elements—cold, heat, moisture, or dryness. Ginger, considered a warming agent, is used to treat ailments resulting from a cold influence. However, whether or not a cold is tied to an excess of cold depends on the symptoms: a cold nose and congestion suggests an overabundance of cold and moisture, while a sore throat and fever point to heat and dryness.
Ginger's warmth and stimulating properties make it an ideal remedy for a cold, helping boost metabolism and circulation, which aids the immune system. But remember, if you're experiencing a fever, a sore throat, or drying symptoms, it might be best to avoid ginger and opt for gentler solutions.
Science supports Ginger for Colds
Modern phytopharmacology, or the scientific study of plant compounds, provides further evidence for ginger's cold-fighting abilities. Like chili and pepper, ginger belongs to the group of spicy substances and can interact with temperature receptors on the skin and mucous membranes to create a warm sensation and increase blood circulation.
Several studies have demonstrated ginger's antiviral properties, which make it beneficial for treating colds and related symptoms[1][2]. Ginger also exhibits anti-inflammatory and expectorant properties, helping to soothe sore throats, alleviate coughs, and reduce congestion[3].
Preparing Your Ginger Tea
During those chilly moments or at the first sign of a cold, a steaming cup of ginger tea offers both comfort and relief. To make the perfect cup, simply:
- Peel and finely chop a thumb-sized piece of fresh ginger per cup. (Dried ginger can be used, but it will result in a milder flavor.)
- Pour boiling water over the ginger, let it steep for 5-10 minutes, and strain.
- Add a teaspoon of honey and 2 teaspoons of lemon juice for an added dose of immune-boosting power.
For a stronger brew, crush the ginger pieces with a fork, simmer the tea on the stove, and add a spoonful of pepper for an added warming kick.
Remember, while ginger tea can provide welcome relief during cold season, it should never replace professional medical care for severe conditions. Always consult your healthcare provider if you have questions or concerns regarding your health.
References:
[1] Chang, H. J., Su, C. S., & Wang, T. M. (2009). Zingiber officinale Rosc. inhibits human rhinovirus-3C protease: potential new anti-rhinovirus compound. Antimicrobial Agents and Chemotherapy, 53(11), 4374-4378.
[2] Mulukutla, S. S., Perum Mannan, S., & Mutalik, S. P. (2015). Dual Effect of Zingiber officinale (Ginger): An In Vitro Study for its Use in Laryngopharyngeal Reflux. Journal of Pharmacognosy and Phytochemistry, 4(4), 5879-5886.
[3] Imamura, K., Kuwano, M., Nihei, A., Ota, M., & Tachibana, K. (2007). Suppression of allergen-induced airway inflammation by a ginger extract. Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 110(2), 298-304.
In the case of the following products: ginger, a warm, comforting cup of ginger tea can serve as a home remedy for symptoms associated with colds. The effectiveness of ginger in such a capacity is supported by phytopharmacology, the scientific study of plant compounds, which has demonstrated ginger's antiviral properties and its ability to reduce congestion, alleviate coughs, and soothe sore throats. When preparing ginger tea for cold symptoms, consider enhancing its warming and immune-boosting properties through the addition of honey and lemon.
