Ginger is a plant known for its anti-inflammatory, diuretic and antiemetic (prevents and controls nausea) properties, among others.
Its properties make it a good choice to treat certain symptoms such as respiratory or gastrointestinal.
In this article we will talk about ginger infusion (or tea): we will explain the simple steps to prepare it, its properties and the health benefits it can bring us. it can bring us.
Ginger: what is it and what are its characteristics?
Ginger is a plant belonging to the zingiberaceae family.. What is especially used of ginger for infusions is the fresh rhizome of the plant (i.e., its subway stem), which is characterized by a spicy and lemony aroma and flavor.
Thus, ginger is characterized because it has outstanding aromatic and medicinal properties. In medicine it has been and is used through ginger infusion, especially to treat respiratory, menstrual and gastrointestinal symptoms, as we will see.
Origin and countries of production
But where does this plant come from? Ginger originates from tropical areas of the Far East.. It is widely cultivated throughout the world, especially in tropical regions.
A curiosity about this plant is that Jamaica is the country that produces the most ginger in the world. However, it is not the only one, and it is followed by countries such as: India, Nepal, Philippines, China, Nigeria, Sri Lanka…
Some of its benefits (and uses)
Some utilities of ginger are that it flavors rice dishes, desserts, beverages and teas (both hot and cold), sweet and sour sauces, etc.
In addition, ginger is considered a remedy that can alleviate certain symptoms such as vomiting, nausea and even intestinal problems. On the other hand, it is a good antiseptic, it is a good antiseptic (antimicrobial: reduces the likelihood of infection) and anti-inflammatory.
Ginger infusion: properties
Ginger (and ginger infusion) has very positive and beneficial properties for our health. These are mainly due to the volatile oils contained in the plant, which are numerous and diverse.
Some of the most important substances or components contained in ginger are: vitamins (especially vitamin C and vitamin B6), linoleic acid, phenolic substances, proteolytic enzymes, minerals (e.g. calcium, potassium, magnesium,…), etc.
The most important properties of ginger (or ginger tea) include: it helps reduce nausea and vomiting, can be a remedy for halitosis (bad breath), fights viruses (it has antiviral properties), relieves respiratory symptoms, stimulates blood circulation and promotes digestion.
A little later we will specify in more detail how these properties of ginger can be beneficial to health. First, however, let’s see how to prepare ginger tea..
How to prepare it?
Ginger infusion (or ginger tea) is a healthy way to consume ginger. It is made from the stem of the ginger together with hot water. Let’s see how to prepare it, step by step, as it is a very simple recipe:
1. Cut the ginger stem.
The first thing to do is to take some of the stem (or rhizome) of ginger. We wash it, peel it and cut it (ideally into slices).
2. Boil the water
Next we will proceed to put water to boil. When it reaches boiling point, we can add the ginger.
3. Remove from heat and add lemon or cinnamon.
Finally, remove the water from the fire and let it stand for a few minutes. We can serve it in tea cups. In addition, we can add other ingredients to the ginger infusion, such as lemon or cinnamon. This will help to reduce the spicy taste of ginger and give it a more pleasant touch.
Health benefits
Ginger tea has a number of health benefits. Thus, as we have already mentioned, it is a good remedy for certain gastrointestinal diseases (for example indigestion, diarrhea or colic).
The infusion of ginger is also good for treating nausea caused by seasickness (for example on a boat) or caused by pregnancy in women. Another of its benefits is that it can alleviate respiratory symptoms caused by respiratory diseases (e.g. flu, cold, tonsillitis…).
Let’s take a detailed look at some of these health benefits, as well as some others.
1. Relieves nausea, vomiting and dizziness
Ginger infusion is especially used to treat nausea and vomiting caused by pregnancy.. It can be taken throughout the day, although it is advisable not to take it immediately before, during or after the main meals. This is because it may hinder the absorption of iron.
But not only relieves nausea and vomiting of pregnancy, but also of other types, such as those produced by chemotherapy treatment. You can also take the infusion of ginger for travel sickness by car, plane, boat, etc..
2. Relieves gastrointestinal symptoms
Ginger infusion also relieves gastrointestinal symptomssuch as diarrhea or gastritis, an inflammation of the gastric mucosa. This is because it activates digestive processes, stimulating stomach functions. In this way, it can help reduce the symptoms of diarrhea (pain, vomiting…).
In addition, ginger has an astringent property; this means that it can help to contain diarrhea caused by indigestion. On a practical level, it translates into a reduction of stomach discomfort. In addition, it also prevents the recurrence of diarrhea.
3. Improves/soothes the voice
Ginger infusion has also been used to improve the voice.. This is especially done by teachers, singers, radio announcers… Since they are more exposed to an overexertion of it. Specifically, the ginger root (stem) is used in the form of infusion; this allows to calm or improve the voices “overloaded” or aphonic.
4. Relieves sore throat
Ginger infusion can also be used to treat a sore throat, or even a cold.or even a cold. Lemon and/or honey are usually added to the infusion or tea.
5. Helps burn fat and speeds up metabolism
Another health benefit of ginger infusion is that it it boosts the burning of fat in our bodyand helps speed up our metabolism. This is thanks to its depurative and slimming properties. In addition, as we have already seen, it improves digestive functions.
6. Eliminates retained liquids
Ginger infusion can also help us to eliminate retained liquids, which reduces inflammation in certain areas of our body, as well as the accumulation of liquids.This reduces the inflammation of certain areas of our body, as well as the accumulation of liquids. In other words, it is considered to have diuretic properties.