The little history of ginger
This root, originally from India, is a staple of Asian cuisine and traditional medicine. For several decades, Europe has appropriated it, and incorporated it into many spicy recipes, such as ginger ale (ginger soda), mulled wine or gingerbread. It is its very original shape which would have given it its name because remember: the word ginger comes from Sanskrit (the majority language in India) and means “shaped like a deer antler”. Amazing, right? In terms of taste, ginger combines a pleasant warming power, when you want to chase away the cold, and a refreshing and invigorating taste, when combined with a cold drink. Enough to want to consume it all year round!
Ginger tea: a recipe with multiple virtues
A misnomer is often called ginger tea, which is actually a ginger infusion that can be consumed at any time during the day. But it is also possible to combine green tea or black tea and ginger, depending on your preference. The root can also be married to rooibos.
- Start by washing and peeling the ginger root. Grate it into very fine pieces, using a garlic press for example.
- Boil water in a saucepan or kettle.
- Infuse the tea in hot water (for the time indicated on the box), infusing at the same time one teaspoon of ginger per number of cups desired. Or infuse just the ginger, if you want an infusion.
- It's then up to you to sweeten it as you wish, with sugar or honey. You can also add a dash of lemon juice, a touch of chili pepper or cinnamon.
- Another option: prepare an iced ginger tea. Once the ginger tea (or infusion) is ready, pour it into a carafe and add plenty of ice cubes.
With lemon, honey or plain, this infusion (herbal tea) will be as delicious as it is healthy. Opt for an organic version if you want to take full advantage of its health benefits! Indeed, the organic designation guarantees a quality tea or infusion that is pesticide-free due to the numerous controls that are carried out during its production.
To buy quality tea, discover our selection of organic green tea.
Ginger tea: health benefits
The medicinal benefits of ginger tea are scientifically proven and cover many aspects of our health. This drink with multiple benefits acts as a real ally for our daily well-being.
Improved digestion
The reputation of ginger tea for soothing digestive disorders is well established. The gingerols and shogaols it contains stimulate the secretion of bile by the liver, thus facilitating the digestion of lipids. Furthermore, this infusion increases the activity of essential digestive enzymes such as amylase and lipase. Ginger is particularly effective against nausea, even rivaling certain medications but with fewer side effects. Its action on intestinal peristalsis also reduces bloating, flatulence and abdominal cramps.
Strengthening the immune system
Gingerol enters the bloodstream between 30 and 60 minutes after consumption and activates white blood cells, essential to our natural defenses. Rich in vitamins (B3, B6, C, E) and minerals (magnesium, potassium, manganese), ginger constitutes a real shield against pathogens. A complement to our ritual of immune defense tea.
Fat burning and weight loss effect
Bioactive compounds in ginger, including 6-gingerol, have thermogenic properties that accelerate metabolism and promote fat burning. A clinical study demonstrated that consuming 2g of ginger daily for three months significantly reduced weight, BMI and waist circumference. In addition, this root regulates leptin, the satiety hormone, thus limiting cravings.
Associated with our slimming tea, this challenge will be met with flying colors!
Relief from pain and inflammation
Ginger tea effectively fights inflammation thanks to 6-gingerol and 6-shogaol which inhibit two key enzymes: COX-1 and COX-2. These compounds also block the production of prostaglandins responsible for pain. Numerous studies confirm its effectiveness against headaches, migraines and joint pain. For menstrual pain, ginger infusion reduces the pro-inflammatory cytokines involved in this type of discomfort.
Effects of ginger against colds
Used for centuries in traditional medicine, ginger is ideal for relieving cold symptoms. Thanks to its richness in gingerol, it helps reduce the duration and intensity of winter infections. Consuming ginger in infusion, herbal tea or in powder form helps clear the respiratory tract, calms coughs and relieves sore throats. Its natural action also helps soothe muscle pain often associated with seasonal viruses. To enhance its effectiveness, it can be combined with lemon or honey, two health food allies. Easy to integrate into your well-being routine, this spicy rhizome can be consumed in oil, in hot water, or even in a candied ginger version. For prevention as well as treatment, ginger is a natural remedy recommended to get through the winter in great shape.
Ginger, an ally for heart health
Among the many benefits of ginger, its positive impact on the cardiovascular system deserves special attention. Thanks to its active compounds such as gingerol and shogaol, this medicinal plant helps reduce inflammation and thin the blood, two key actions to protect the heart. Studies suggest that consuming ginger regularly can help lower LDL cholesterol and triglycerides, while increasing good cholesterol (HDL). This natural action on blood lipids helps limit the risks of hypertension and cardiovascular accidents. In the form of powder, herbal tea or organic infusion, ginger is easily integrated into a balanced diet. By stimulating blood circulation and acting against inflammatory disorders, it becomes a real natural health guide to support good cardiac function. Just a spoonful of fresh or ground ginger each day can make a real difference in preventing heart disease.
To find out more, we also have an article on grandmother's remedies to lower cholesterol levels !
Ginger and diabetes prevention: metabolic support to consider
Ginger can play an interesting role in regulation of carbohydrate metabolism, by acting on several mechanisms linked to the onset of type 2 diabetes. Some studies suggest that this aromatic root has the capacity to curb insulin resistance, while modulating the glycemic response after meals. Unlike other medicinal plants, its action occurs without notable side effects, making it a well-tolerated natural option. Rather than focusing solely on the infusion, it can be incorporated in powder form into the daily diet, for example in stews, smoothies or juices. This change in use encourages regular consumption without taste fatigue. As a complement to a balanced lifestyle, ginger could therefore help delay the onset of glycemic disorders, particularly in at-risk or sedentary people. This preventive approach is attracting more and more health professionals, who recommend it as a simple and natural lever to act upstream.
Ginger, natural support against muscle pain
Sought after for its soothing properties, ginger is particularly useful in cases of aches or pain linked to intense physical effort. Its action is based in part on its ability to modulate the body's inflammatory response, by reducing the production of certain substances responsible for muscle pain. Several clinical studies have demonstrated a significant reduction in the feeling of discomfort after exercise, particularly among athletes consuming ginger daily. Used in addition to a recovery routine, it can promote better muscle relaxation, especially when taken regularly over several days. For internal and external use, for example in the form of capsules, poultices based on ginger oil or integrated into a post-workout ritual, this plant with multiple virtues naturally finds its place in the arsenal of natural remedies intended to relieve everyday muscular disorders.
Ginger teas Kusmi Tea
Kusmi offers several recipes that include ginger. These organic mixtures are packaged in France and packaged in an eco-responsible way. On the menu: a organic ginger lemon green tea, where two opposite but complementary flavors come together to offer an intensely refreshing break. A blend of flavored organic tea, called “Boost”, composed of green tea, maté, ginger, enhanced by notes of cinnamon and of cardamom. A shot of “boost” necessary to face busy days! Finally, the range includes the infusion, “Happy Mind”, which presents itself as a concentrate of happiness. A joyful blend of lemon, dragon fruit, ginger, turmeric, of moringa…with an essential little hint of chili!
Possible side effects in case of excess
Despite its therapeutic virtues, excessive consumption of ginger can cause inconvenience. Indeed, gingerol and citral, active compounds responsible for its characteristic flavor, can cause irritation. These substances, when ingested in large quantities, sometimes irritate the tongue, mouth, throat and stomach.
Digestive disorders are the most common side effects. Abdominal cramps, heartburn, bloating and diarrhea may occur if you exceed the recommended doses. To avoid these inconveniences, it is advisable not to consume more than 4 grams of ginger per day and to gradually increase the doses, particularly if you are not used to this spice.
Our expert opinion
If you are a fan of ginger, you can consume this tea or herbal tea with your eyes closed! Nothing better to enjoy a moment of boost in the morning or in the middle of the day and change from the traditional glass of water to hydrate.