Ginger infusion: how to prepare it and its health benefits

Ginger is a plant known for its anti-inflammatory, diuretic and antiemetic properties (prevents and controls nausea), among others.

Its properties make it a good option to treat certain symptoms such as respiratory or gastrointestinal symptoms.

In this article we will talk about the ginger infusion (or tea): We will explain the simple steps to prepare it, its properties and the health benefits that you can bring us.

Ginger: what is it and what characteristics does it have?

Ginger is a plant belonging to the Zingiberaceae family. What is used especially from ginger to make infusions is the fresh rhizome of the plant (that is, its underground stem), which is characterized by having a spicy and lemony aroma and flavor.

Thus, ginger is characterized by its outstanding aromatic and medicinal properties. In medicine it has been used and is used through the infusion of ginger, especially to treat respiratory symptoms, menstrual and gastrointestinal, as we will see.

Origin and countries of production

But where does this plant come from? Ginger is native to tropical areas of the Far East. Its cultivation is wide 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 uses of ginger are that it flavors rice dishes, desserts, drinks 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 (antimicrobial: reduces the probability 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 prominent substances or components that ginger contains are: vitamins (especially vitamin C and vitamin B6), linoleic acid, phenolic substances, proteolytic enzymes, minerals (for example calcium, potassium, magnesium, ...), etc.

The most important properties of ginger (or a ginger infusion) include: it helps to reduce nausea and vomiting, it can be a remedy for halitosis (bad breath), fights viruses (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 for health. First, however, let's see how the ginger infusion is prepared.

How to prepare it?

Ginger tea (or ginger tea) is a healthy way to consume ginger. It is made from the stem of ginger together with hot water. Let's see how we can prepare it, step by step, since it is a very simple recipe:

1. Cut the stem of the ginger

The first thing to do is take a little of the stem (or rhizome) of the ginger. We wash it, peel it and cut it (ideally into slices).

2. Boil the water

Then we will proceed to put water to boil. When it reaches the boiling point, we can add the ginger.

3. Remove from heat and add lemon or cinnamon

Finally, we will remove the water from the fire and let it rest for a few minutes. We can serve it in teacups. In addition, we can add other ingredients to the ginger infusion, such as lemon or cinnamon. This will help reduce the spiciness of the ginger and give it a more pleasant touch.

Health benefits

Ginger tea has numerous health benefits. Thus, as we have advanced, it is a good remedy for certain gastrointestinal diseases (for example indigestion, diarrhea or colic).

Ginger tea is also good for treating nausea caused by dizziness (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 (for example, a flu, a cold, tonsillitis…).

Let's take a closer look at some of these health benefits, as well as a few others.

1. Relieves nausea, vomiting and dizziness

The ginger infusion it 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 explained because it could make it difficult to absorb iron.

But it not only relieves nausea and vomiting of pregnancy, but also of other types, such as those caused by chemotherapy treatment. You can also take the ginger infusion before dizziness from trips by car, plane, boat, etc.

2. Relieves gastrointestinal symptoms

The ginger infusion also relieves gastrointestinal symptoms, such as diarrhea or gastritis, an inflammation of the gastric mucosa. This is because it activates the 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 it can help contain diarrhea caused by indigestion. On a practical level, it translates into a decrease in stomach discomfort. In addition, it also prevents the recurrence of diarrhea.

3. Improves / relieves voice

Ginger infusion has also been used to improve voice. This is done especially by teachers, singers, radio announcers... Since they are more exposed to an overexertion from it. Specifically, the ginger root (stem) is used in the form of an infusion; This allows you to calm or improve “overloaded” or hoarse voices.

4. Soothes a sore throat

Ginger tea can also be used to treat a sore throat, or even a cold. In the infusion or tea it is usually added, in addition, lemon and / or honey.

5. Helps burn fat and speeds up metabolism

Another health benefit of ginger tea is that enhances the burning of fat in our body, and helps speed up our metabolism. This is thanks to its cleansing and slimming properties. In addition, as we have already seen, it improves digestive functions.

6. Eliminates retained fluids

Ginger infusion can also help us eliminate retained liquids, which reduces inflammation in certain areas of our body, as well as the accumulation of fluids. That is, it is considered to have diuretic properties.

Bibliographic references

• Fiorella, K., Higa, L., Medina, K.M., Zambrano, F. and Lay, M.J. (2019). Infusion of ginger and mystical cinnamon. San Ignacio de Loyola University.
• Salgado, F. (2011). Ginger. International Journal of Acupuncture, 5 (4): 167-173.