Ginger tea

From WikiMD's Food, Medicine & Wellness Encyclopedia

Ginger tea is a type of herbal tea made by boiling ginger root in water. It is a popular beverage in various cultures worldwide, particularly in East Asia and Southeast Asia.

Etymology[edit | edit source]

The term "ginger tea" is derived from the English words "ginger", which is a translation of the Latin zingiber, and "tea", which comes from the Chinese word . The Latin zingiber is itself derived from the Sanskrit śṛṅgavēra, which means "horn body", a reference to the shape of the ginger root.

Preparation and Consumption[edit | edit source]

Ginger tea is typically prepared by boiling pieces of ginger root in water. The tea can be sweetened with honey or sugar, and additional flavors such as lemon or mint can be added. In some cultures, milk or cream is also added to the tea.

Ginger tea is often consumed for its potential health benefits. It is believed to aid in digestion, reduce nausea, and alleviate cold and flu symptoms. However, these claims are not universally accepted and more research is needed to confirm them.

Variations[edit | edit source]

There are many variations of ginger tea worldwide. In Korea, the tea is known as saenggangcha and is often served with pine nuts. In the Philippines, it is called salabat and is traditionally served during the Christmas season. In Indonesia, a similar beverage is known as wedang jahe.

Health Risks[edit | edit source]

While ginger tea is generally considered safe for consumption, it can cause side effects in some people, particularly when consumed in large amounts. These can include heartburn, stomach upset, and mouth irritation. People with certain health conditions, such as gallstones, should also avoid consuming ginger tea.

See Also[edit | edit source]

References[edit | edit source]


Ginger tea Resources
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Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD