– Aparna Chatterjee

Ginger has been the king of Ayurveda and Indian cuisine for centuries. Chinese medicines also revere this root because it restores Yang or heat energy.

Ginger and the Ayurveda:

The heating qualities of Ginger tea make it helpful in treating Vata (airy element) imbalances, such as digestive issues, because it improves all three phases of gastrointestinal function (digestion, absorption, and elimination). Vata refers to the fluid entity. Abnormality in the circulation of blood, digestion, etc., comes under this.

Ginger, known for its aroma and spicy flavor, is also known for many health benefits: sipping ginger tea throughout the day will keep our immunity prospering during cool weather. During warmer weather, consuming a cup in the morning or before a meal will intensify Agni (digestive fire), so the Kapha (watery element) dosha will be improved (since there is a good amount of water), rendering proper digestion and sharpened taste buds. Ginger tea can slightly increase Pitta (fiery element) dosha, so avoid drinking large amounts if your Pitta is unbalanced. Their average body temperature determines the fiery aspect of one’s bodies. Also, one’s temper can be considered while deciding on Pitta dosha.

1. Improve blood circulation.
2. Relieve menstrual discomfort (my pleasure, ladies)
3. Strengthens immunity.
4. Relieves stress.
5. Improve digestion.
6. Relive respiratory problems.
7. Help with weight loss.
8. Help fight cancer.
9. Reduce arthritis inflammation.
10. Protects from Alzheimer’s disease.

Things you will need to prepare ginger tea:

1. 2 inches of fresh raw ginger (use more or less, depending on how strong you want it!)
2. One and 1/2 – 2 cups of water.
3. Juice of 1/2 lime or honey to taste (optional but delicious)

How to prepare it?

1. Peel a fresh piece of ginger and slice it thinly to maximize the surface area. This will help release all that potent juice into the water.
2. Boil the ginger in water for at least 10 minutes. For a more robust and tangier tea, allow it to boil for 20 minutes or more, and use more slices of ginger. (It all depends on your taste preferences, FAM.)
3. Remove from heat and add lime juice and honey to taste.

There you go! This is the warmest hug you can get this winter (if you are a lone wolf!). Start with small doses of ginger and gradually increase it to your taste. You might not like the taste at first, so add lemon and honey in small quantities, and you will have a drink that detoxes, improves immunity, and helps you lose some pounds!