7 health benefits of drinking ginger tea in moderation

Health benefits of drinking ginger tea

Ginger has been used medicinally for thousands of years due to its perceived health benefits and there is now data to support some of the potential benefits of ginger. Ginger tea is a beverage that has many health benefits.

However, according to Kantha Shelke, PhD, a certified food scientist and director of the food science and research company Corvus Blue LLC and a senior lecturer at Johns Hopkins University, the potential benefits of ginger tea depend on a number of factors, including the strength of the blend, what it's mixed with, the form of ginger, and how often ginger tea is consumed.

Therefore, Dr. Shelke recommends drinking ginger tea in moderation and noting its potential interactions with blood thinners and blood pressure medications, as well as in people with bleeding disorders. People with certain medical conditions, such as those with gallstones, diabetes, or those who are pregnant or breastfeeding, may also consider talking to their doctor before taking ginger.

Source of vitamins and minerals

Regularly sipping ginger tea can be a great way to incorporate important minerals and vitamins into your diet. Ginger contains vitamins and minerals including vitamin C, vitamin B6, magnesium, potassium, copper, manganese, fiber, and water.

Vitamins and minerals are essential for normal growth and function of the body. For example, vitamin C helps the body absorb iron, maintain tissue health and heal wounds. Meanwhile, vitamin B6 aids in red blood cell formation and maintains brain function. Magnesium is involved in more than 300 biochemical reactions in the body, such as nerve and muscle function.

Anti-inflammatory properties of ginger

Many scientific studies have suggested that ginger’s anti-inflammatory effects are among its benefits. Studies have shown that several active ingredients in ginger can reduce inflammation, including by inhibiting inflammatory cytokines and downregulating the induction of inflammatory genes.

For example, studies show promising evidence that ginger may help reduce pain in people with osteoarthritis, the most common form of arthritis caused by the destruction or damage of joint cartilage.

Treatment of nausea and vomiting

Ginger has been used historically to help relieve nausea and vomiting, and current scientific evidence supports its effectiveness in this regard. In particular, studies have shown that ginger may be helpful in alleviating symptoms of nausea during pregnancy. A separate study found that ginger was more effective than medication in reducing nausea and vomiting after a procedure under general anesthesia. However, each person should consult with their doctor when determining which treatment is right for them.

Digestive support

Ginger is often “used to affect gastrointestinal motility—that is, the speed at which food moves through the digestive tract,” says Dr. Shelke. Studies have found that ginger has a positive effect on how long it takes for a person to digest food, as well as dyskinesia, a disorder that slows the movement of food through the digestive system.

However, it's important to note that the negative effects of ginger for some people may include effects on the gastrointestinal tract, such as bloating or general discomfort.

Reduce menstrual cramps

Another benefit of ginger tea is treating menstrual cramps, or pain that occurs during menstruation.

In fact, a review of evidence from six different trials found no significant difference between ginger and NSAIDs, such as aspirin or ibuprofen, in treating menstrual cramps, although more research is needed.

Potential metabolic benefits

Dr. Shelke says that “the warming effect of ginger is used in weight management products” due to its “metabolic effects,” referring to evidence of ginger’s thermogenic properties, which can stimulate metabolic rate (the amount of calories your body burns). According to one study, ginger may reduce obesity through several mechanisms including thermogenesis, appetite control, and inhibition of intestinal fat absorption, among others.

In addition to its potential weight-related effects, older studies have found that ginger may help lower cholesterol. It may also prevent blood clots, which may help prevent heart disease. Additionally, ginger has been found to help improve blood sugar levels in people with type 2 diabetes.

Protect brain health

Additionally, ginger has the potential to “protect brain health from oxidative stress,” a benefit that has been supported by scientific evidence. Oxidative stress is a condition that can occur when there are not enough antioxidants to remove excess free radicals in the body, which can lead to cell and tissue damage. This has been linked to degenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease.

Specifically, studies show that ginger's anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties may contribute to reducing oxidative stress as well as markers of inflammation.

For these reasons, ginger tea can be a great addition to your diet without taking much time to prepare. Ginger tea is an easy drink to prepare but has many beneficial effects.