Ginger is probably best known as the spice that gives gingerbread and ginger ale their distinctive flavors, but it's also one of the most widely used herbal remedies in the world. Ginger is an ancient herb whose use dates back thousands of years. Its name means "horn root" in Sanskrit, in reference to its tangled roots and underground stem, which can be grated to make an herbal tea. Ginger is purported to be effective for a wide variety of conditions, including digestive problems. It may also be beneficial for fever, but consult your doctor before taking ginger tea for medicinal reasons.
Nausea
Ginger is well known for its effects in easing nausea and motion sickness. Drinking ginger tea appears to be safe and effective for alleviating nausea associated with morning sickness when used for short periods of time. However, the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine says ginger may be less effective in relieving motion sickness and nausea post-surgery and following chemotherapy; more clinical studies are needed to determine its effectiveness. Consult your physician about the proper use of ginger tea, especially if you are using it for morning sickness or before any surgical procedures.
Digestive Aid
Ginger appears to have some beneficial effects on digestion, including relief of heartburn, gas and indigestion. The University of Colorado Denver says laboratory studies suggest ginger may exert a protective effect on the lining of the digestive organs. Ginger is a demulcent, or soothing, herb that may alleviate symptoms of indigestion by decreasing inflammation and forming a barrier against damage from stomach acids. Talk to your doctor about using ginger tea as a digestive aid.
Fever and Other Flu Symptoms
In traditional Chinese medicine, fresh ginger is considered a warming herb. It is used as a diaphoretic to induce sweating and reduce elevated body temperature due to fever, but this use has not been backed up by scientific evidence. Because of its anti-inflammatory effects, ginger tea may also be effective in alleviating the aches and pains of the flu; its demulcent effects may soothe a strep throat and provide some relief from coughs. Discuss the use of ginger for fever and other flu symptoms with your healthcare provider.
Preparation and Precautions
AltMD states you can prepare ginger tea using 2 tsp. of freshly grated or powdered ginger in one cup of boiling water, letting it steep for 10 minutes. Get your physician's advice before using ginger tea, especially if you are pregnant, have a clotting disorder or are taking blood thinners; ginger may increase your risk of bleeding. Ginger can reduce the absorption of iron and fat-soluble vitamins, such as vitamin E, and reduce the effectiveness of some antibiotics and heart medications, so don't take these supplements with ginger tea. Ginger can reduce the amount of diabetes medication you need, so use ginger tea medicinally under the direct supervision of your physician.
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