What is ginger tea and why is it popular?
Ginger tea is a warm drink made from the root of the ginger plant (Zingiber officinale). This tea is known for its spicy flavour and is drunk all over the world for its purported health benefits. The popularity of ginger tea has grown strongly in recent years, partly due to trends in health, natural remedies and immune boosting. Today, ginger is grown in many regions around the world. That’s why ginger is also often taken as a ginger shot.
Main active compounds in ginger tea
Ginger contains several bioactive compounds that contribute to its health benefits:
- Gingerols (especially 6-gingerol): powerful antioxidants and anti-inflammatories.
- Shogaols: formed when gingerols are heated, with stronger effects against inflammation.
- Zingerone: milder, with a slightly sweet aroma, mainly formed during cooking.
These compounds are water-soluble, which means they are released when ginger steeps in hot water.
Ginger tea for nausea and travel sickness
Ginger tea helps with nausea because the gingerols in ginger affect the serotonin system in the gut. According to several clinical studies, ginger reduces the activity of 5-HT3 receptors, which are involved in triggering the urge to vomit. This makes ginger tea effective for travel sickness, pregnancy sickness and post-operative nausea.
Did you know that ginger peel also contains lots of active compounds?
Supports digestion naturally
Ginger tea stimulates the production of digestive juices and speeds up gastric emptying. This reduces bloating and helps with indigestion. According to the European committee on herbal medicinal products (HMPC), ginger may officially be used to relieve mild gastrointestinal complaints, such as flatulence and a feeling of fullness.
Anti-inflammatory and supports the joints
The shogaols and gingerols in ginger tea inhibit pro-inflammatory substances in the body, such as prostaglandins and cytokines. This explains why ginger tea can provide relief from inflammation-related complaints such as osteoarthritis or period pain. According to research, ginger works in a similar way to mild anti-inflammatory drugs.
Read more about organic versus conventional ginger farming here.
Possible effects on immunity and colds
Although ginger tea has no direct antiviral effect, it may support the immune system by reducing inflammation and providing antioxidants. According to in-vitro studies, ginger reduces the production of inflammatory substances such as TNF-α and IL-6, which play a role in infections. That’s why ginger tea is often drunk when you have a cold or the first signs of flu.
Mildly pain-relieving and promotes circulation
By activating certain receptors in the nervous system (TRPV1), ginger tea gives a feeling of warmth and can temporarily dull pain. This effect is similar to that of capsaicin from chilli peppers. It also explains why ginger tea is often used for muscle pain or menstrual complaints.
Take care when using medication: possible interactions
Ginger may have a mild blood-thinning effect. That’s why people who take blood thinners should consult their doctor before drinking large amounts of ginger tea. With diabetes medication, ginger can also enhance the blood sugar-lowering effect.
Ginger tea and blood glucose: can it help with diabetes?
Ginger tea can lower blood sugar levels because gingerols improve insulin sensitivity. Clinical research shows that people with type 2 diabetes can benefit from 2 to 3 cups of ginger tea a day, provided it has no added sugar.
Safety and possible side effects of ginger tea
Ginger tea is safe for daily use in normal amounts (2–4 cups a day). Possible side effects include mild heartburn in people with a sensitive stomach. According to the WHO and EFSA, ginger as a food is not toxic and is considered safe, including during pregnancy (in moderate amounts).
Summary: the power of ginger tea in everyday life
Ginger tea is a natural drink with proven effects against nausea, digestive complaints and mild inflammation. Thanks to bioactive compounds such as gingerol and shogaol, it is pain-relieving, warming and possibly immune-supporting. Used in moderation, it is a safe addition to a healthy lifestyle.
Read all about ginger and turmeric here!
What is the best way to make ginger tea?
Ingredients
- 20 ml Go Now pure ginger juice
- 200–250 ml hot water
- Optional:
- 1 teaspoon honey
- 1–2 teaspoons lemon juice
- A slice of lemon or orange (for aroma)
Method
- Heat the water to just below boiling point (about 80–90 °C).
- Pour the hot water into a mug.
- Add 20 ml of ginger juice and stir well.
- Add honey and/or lemon juice to taste, if you like.
- Let it cool slightly to drinking temperature and enjoy!
Frequently asked questions about ginger tea
Is ginger tea good for weight loss?
Ginger tea can slightly boost your metabolism and reduce feelings of hunger. Although it isn’t a miracle cure, it can contribute to weight management as part of a healthy lifestyle.
Can you drink ginger tea during pregnancy?
Yes, in moderate amounts. According to midwives and clinical research, up to 1 gram of dried ginger per day is safe for pregnancy sickness.
How much ginger tea is too much?
Up to 60 ml of ginger juice (about 3–4 cups) is considered safe. Higher doses can cause stomach complaints or affect medication.
Customer experiences
Our customers prefer ginger juice to fresh ginger because, among other things, it’s easy to use, contains no additives and simply because it tastes great!
“It’s really tasty, delivered quickly and easy to use> Fresh ginger for making tea, among other things”
Her Ja
“I have Ginger tea every day. A little bit in a glass, dilute it a bit with water and top up with boiling water. Really great!”
Marcel Pannekoek
“The lovely thing about Go Now’s ginger juice is that it has no added sugars. Wonderful for making a cup of tea. And the value for money is top notch too!”
Karen Vyt
“It makes a lovely tea. Every bit as good as fresh ginger.”
Chris Hop
“I now drink one or two cups of tea a day made with 2 tablespoons of ginger shot. Wow! I feel more energetic, happier, more positive. I knew it was healthy, but I didn’t know it would have such an effect! Really nice.”
Jolanda Wijman
