Tea, especially green tea, is healthy due to high levels of flavonoids -- plant-derived antioxidant compounds. Freshly steeped loose leaf teas provide the most health benefits, though instant tea may also supply antioxidants and provide an alternative to high-calorie soda and fruit drinks. Choose instant tea without sugar or artificial sweeteners to enjoy natural health benefits. Steep fresh ginger and mix it with your tea to add a spicy-sweet flavor and enhance digestion.
Step 1
Rinse the ginger with fresh water and peel it using a grater. Grate away from your body, going slowly to avoid slicing your fingers. Use a sharp knife to peel it instead, or leave the skin on if you prefer -- it will taste the same with or without skin. Slice the ginger into 1/8-inch slices and set it aside. Use 2 tbsp. ginger for a stronger tasting tea, or reduce to 1 tsp. for a milder flavor.
Step 2
Heat the water to boiling using a teakettle or microwave. Remove the water from the stove or microwave, pour it into your cup and add the sliced ginger. Steep for 5 minutes, and then remove the ginger using a fork or spoon.
Step 3
Stir in your instant tea mix immediately if you want to make hot tea, or refrigerate it for an hour to chill it for iced tea. Use 1 tsp. of instant tea mix, one serving size as stated on the package, or to taste. Serve immediately for the best flavor and highest level of antioxidants.
Tips and Warnings
- Steep 2 tbsp. ginger in hot water and drink it two to three times a day for cold and flu symptoms, sore throat, headache and menstrual cramps. Ginger may soothe nausea related to chemotherapy, surgery or pregnancy, though more research is necessary to determine ginger's health benefits.
- Do not consume more than 4 g of ginger daily. Ginger may interact with blood thinners and some prescription medications. Talk to your doctor before taking ginger.
Things You'll Need
- 2-inch chunk of fresh ginger
- 8 oz. water
- 1 tsp. instant tea
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