The Benefits of Ginger Tea

Ginger has been used for centuries as a natural healing herb, known for calming the digestive system, and warming the body. Ginger is characterized by its warm and spicy notes, and you can find it in many stores as well as certain brands that make a "double-ginger" tea. Ginger not only helps calm the stomach, but it can scare your cold away, and help with sore throats and provide comfort for those with flu-like symptoms.

Basic Facts on Ginger

Ginger was found in Europe around the 10^th century because it was being used by Greeks and Romans. Ginger is derived from the plant called "rhizome", which grows from under the ground. Ginger's Latin name zingibar comes from the ancient Sanskrit word which is "shringavera", which means "shaped like a deer's antlers". If you have seen Ginger in its raw form it has that type of look to it.

Ginger has been grown in tropical regions of Asia in the past, but is now difficult to find in its wild state. However, it can be found in parts of Nigeria, Sierra Leone, and Jamaica. Jamaica has been heralded as a prime location for the growth of Ginger, although in truth India produces about half of what the world has today. Australia and China also have regions are said to have Ginger growing wild.

The Life of Ginger

Ginger usually takes about 5 to 7 months to grow, and is usually best when used in its raw form. It can be crystallized and eaten just as one would eat candy, and is best after a meal, or slices of Ginger can be added to many recipes as a digestive aid. In many of the countries where it is grown, it is sliced and used to steep in tea just as much as it is used in food. In Thailand, it is used in a popular dish called, "Coconut Milk Soup", in which Ginger is shredded and added to the top. In India, Ginger is shredded or sliced and used to make Chai tea. The natural oils in the Ginger root can also be used as an essential oil in a bath or to inhale.

The Biggest Health Benefits of Ginger

Ginger tea is a great way to calm morning sickness during pregnancy, and therefore many women have learned to use it often rather than option for an anti-nausea medicine. Ginger has helped some with heartburn as well as other ailments. According to Dr. Leonid Macheret from Partners in Wellness in Fairfield, Ohio, Ginger tea is extremely powerful for some patients when used in combination with an Epsom salt bath. Any patient experiencing indigestion, stomach cramps, or even lower back pain will be told to try this first before moving to another option.

Ginger comes in many forms, and adds a lot of flavor to your diet. You can find it today in teas made by Bija, Celestial Seasonings, Upton Tea, and the Republic of Tea.

Dr. Leonid Macheret

Partners In Wellness

Fairfield, Ohio