How to Make Anti-Inflammatory and Pain Relief Turmeric Ginger Tea
Turmeric and ginger have been used for centuries for their health benefits and to spice up meals. Both ginger and turmeric have powerful anti-inflammatory properties that help relieve pain. The medicinal properties of turmeric and ginger can boost your health and help treat a wide range of health issues. For example, by combining these delicious herbs, you can make a refreshing turmeric ginger tea to help to soothe gastrointestinal problems, reduce inflammation in joints, keep your heart healthy, and even help reduce symptoms of depression.
Inflammation Affects Every Aspect of Your Health
Inflammation plays a vital role in the body’s immune system. However, many lifestyle choices increase chronic inflammation in the body and can lead to various diseases. According to Johns Hopkins Health Review, chronic inflammation is behind many diseases like cancer, heart disease, diabetes, arthritis, and possibly depression.1 Because turmeric and ginger have powerful anti-inflammatory properties, they play a vital role in keeping your body healthy.
In this article, you will learn how scientific research has shown the many health benefits of turmeric and ginger in reducing inflammatory responses. At the end of the article, you can get some turmeric ginger tea recipes to try at home.
So why are ginger and turmeric have so many health benefits and are such powerful anti-inflammatories?
The Health Benefits of Turmeric Tea
The main compound of turmeric is curcumin which gives the spice its distinct color and contains most of the health-boosting properties.
The book Herbal Medicine reports that turmeric contains anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties and can help to relieve gas and boost liver health. Among the health benefits of turmeric, Herbal Medicine states that it has been used to treat joint inflammation, rheumatoid arthritis, chronic digestive problems, and treat abdominal pain.2
However, curcumin is poorly absorbed by the body. To increase the amount of curcumin the body absorbs, it’s important to add black pepper. For example, a study published in the journal Planta Medica reported that by adding piperine (found in black pepper), you can increase the absorption rate of curcumin by around 2000%.3
The Health Benefits of Ginger Tea
Ginger and turmeric belong to the same family (Zingiberaceae family) and contain some similar compounds. The health benefits of ginger come mainly from gingerols which have an anti-inflammatory effect in the body.
The book Herbal Medicine reported that as well as having properties to reduce inflammation, ginger also helps to relieve pain. In fact, some studies have shown that the pain-relieving properties of ginger are as effective as ibuprofen. Among the health benefits of ginger, the book stated that it can treat arthritis pain, rheumatism, osteoarthritis, reduce nausea, stop stomach cramping, and improve cardiovascular health.4
How Turmeric Ginger Tea Boosts Your Health
It is clear that turmeric and ginger have amazing power to boost your health by reducing inflammation and pain. Let’s look at the specific health benefits that ginger and turmeric tea provide.
Anti-inflammatory properties of turmeric and ginger
The anti-inflammatory properties of turmeric and ginger have been well researched and documented. By using the herbs separately or in a combination such as in turmeric and ginger tea, you can help reduce inflammation and relieve pain in your body.
The journal Advances in Pharmacological Studies reported that extracts of turmeric have been used for centuries to treat inflammatory conditions. Among some of these are joint swelling, indigestion, irritable bowel syndrome, and rheumatoid arthritis.5
Similarly, ginger is viewed as a medicinal herb with broad anti-inflammatory actions. The Journal of Medicinal Food published information that ginger has a similar effect to non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) in reducing pain and inflammation. The journal reported that the advantage of ginger over NSAIDs is that there are fewer side effects from using ginger to reduce pain and inflammation.6
Boosts brain power
Turmeric and ginger have a positive effect on cognitive power and have an antioxidant effect against some neurological diseases.
For example, research has found that the compound 6-shogaol in ginger has an anti-inflammatory effect on neurological processes and can help to reduce memory impairment and the symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease and dementia.7 Other studies have shown that ginger extracts improve the cognitive function of middle-aged women.8
Turmeric has also shown to have a positive neuro-effect on people with dementia. A study showed that Alzheimer’s patients who took turmeric supplements for over a year showed significant signs of improvement.9 Another study reported that in countries where turmeric is used in cooking (for example in India where curry is popular), fewer people suffer from dementia than in western countries.10
Helps digestion
Ginger on its own or a combination of ginger and turmeric can help to relieve many digestion issues.
A study from 2008 found that ginger has a positive effect on your gastrointestinal system and can help food pass through the intestines easier.11 Other studies have confirmed that ginger reduces inflammation in the digestive tract and can prevent and treat indigestion.12
Ginger also helps to prevent nausea and vomiting due to its power to soothe the intestines. This also helps reduce abdominal pain, stomach cramping, and other symptoms of gastric distress.13
Turmeric also has an anti-inflammatory effect on the digestive system. Among the digestive diseases that curcumin has proved to be effective in helping to treat are irritable bowel disease, indigestion, stomach ulcers, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), and Crohn’s disease.14
Improves heart health and lowers blood pressure
A very important health benefit of both ginger and turmeric is their ability to naturally improve cardiovascular health.
The International Journal of Cardiology published studies on how curcumin extracts have protective effects on heart health. Among these are reducing the risk of blood clots, preventing irregular heartbeat, and having an anti-inflammatory effect on the cardiovascular system.15
Ginger also contains many therapeutic compounds that help improve your heart health. Two studies from 2005 found that among the cardio benefits of ginger are its ability to reduce blood pressure and prevent palpitations.16, 17
Improves blood circulation
Improving your blood circulation naturally is also essential for a healthy heart and in that respect turmeric and ginger tea can help improve blood flow and circulation.
The journal Current Cardiology Reviews reported that ginger improves blood flow and has other cardiac benefits.18 A study into the cardiovascular benefits of curcumin also found that the spice helps blood circulation and prevents oxidative stress on the vascular system.19
Reduces cholesterol
Another way that a combination of ginger and turmeric boosts your heart health is by reducing cholesterol levels in your blood. High cholesterol can lead to heart disease and cardiac arrest.
The Journal of Nutrition found that the antioxidative effect of ginger extracts help to reduce LDL cholesterol (“bad” cholesterol).20 The studies have shown a similar cholesterol-reducing effect of turmeric.18
Helps manage arthritis symptoms
Regularly drinking turmeric ginger tea can help reduce joint inflammation if you have any kind of arthritis. The medicinal properties of turmeric and ginger have also shown to have a proven effect in reducing pain and joint stiffness.
A report on anti-inflammatory herbal medicines that are useful for treating arthritis found that both ginger and turmeric have an anti-arthritic effect. Compounds in ginger help to inhibit inflammation and are as effective as ibuprofen in treating osteoarthritis. Curcumin in turmeric has also been successfully used in treating rheumatoid arthritis and is as effective as phenylbutazone – a pharmaceutical drug used to treat arthritis.5
Stimulates your immune system
Drinking ginger turmeric tea can boost your immune system, and help to improve your body’s response to infections.
The International Journal of Preventative Medicine reported that in many countries, ginger is used as a natural ingredient to stimulate the immune system.12 Likewise, curcumin activates the body’s immune response and can help prevent various diseases and infections by boosting and strengthening the immune system naturally.21
May help prevent cancer
Research has also been carried out on the different ways that turmeric and ginger can help protect against various types of cancer.
The journal Molecules reported that curcumin has an anti-cancer effect and can help “suppress initiation, progression, and metastasis of a variety of tumors.”22
Studies into the anti-cancer properties of ginger found that it has a role to play in the treatment and prevention of cancer, especially gastrointestinal cancers. Ginger has powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that can also help protect against many types of cancers including pancreatic, liver, prostate, cervical, and breast cancers.23
Studies into the benefits of using turmeric and ginger to treat cancer say that more research has to be done to come up with effective ways to use these herbs to prevent and treat cancer.
Aids in diabetes control
Ginger and turmeric are herbs that can help control the complications of diabetes by having a positive effect on blood sugar levels.
For example, it was found that the anti-diabetic properties of ginger help to reduce the levels of fasting blood sugar and reduce oxidative stress.24 Regarding the positive effect of curcumin on diabetes, a study from 2009 found that curcumin suppresses blood glucose levels and helps to control blood cholesterol.25
Assists in weight loss
The compounds gingerol and curcumin in turmeric ginger tea have also shown to promote weight loss and help maintain general health while on a diet. Of course, just by drinking turmeric and ginger tea without making other lifestyle changes you will probably not see effect on your weight loss. However, regularly consuming ginger and turmeric can boost your efforts in losing weight.
For example, the European Review for Medical and Pharmacological Sciences published two studies on the benefits of turmeric and ginger in helping to lose weight. One study found that consuming ginger helped to reduce body weight while at the same time increasing levels of HDL cholesterol (“good” cholesterol).26 Another study reported that curcumin is “well-tolerated and can positively influence weight management in overweight people.”27
Antidepressant properties
Turmeric and ginger tea may also help relieve symptoms of depression and boost your mood. Various compounds in both turmeric and ginger have a positive effect on the mind and can help stimulate neurotransmitters associated with feelings of pleasure and happiness.
Curcumin has been shown to stimulate the brain to naturally produce more dopamine and serotonin. These chemicals that the brain produces have an antidepressant effect. A study from 2008 reported that curcumin is “useful and potent natural anti-depressant approach in the management of depression.”28
Also, ginger has an anti-inflammatory effect on the brain due to a compound called geraniol. This helps to protect the brain from stress and is important in the treatment of depression.
Drinking turmeric and ginger tea for depression combines the anti-inflammatory effect of both herbs and help turmeric to stimulate natural mood-enhancing chemicals.
Turmeric and Ginger Tea Recipes
It is very easy to make a therapeutic turmeric ginger tea to start enjoying all its health benefits and give your health a well-needed boost.
The recipe for turmeric and ginger tea is as follows:
You will need:
- 1 teaspoon fresh grated turmeric root (or, if using dried turmeric, 1/3 teaspoon).
- 1 teaspoon fresh grated ginger root (or, 1/3 teaspoon of dried ginger).
- 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper (to aid turmeric absorption).
- Raw honey and a slice of lemon to taste.
To make the turmeric ginger tea, prepare it as follows:
- In a small saucepan, bring a cup of water to the boil. Turn off the heat and add the ginger and turmeric.
- Steep with the lid on for 5 minutes (covering with a lid prevents the oils and medicinal compounds escaping through the steam).
- Strain the tea remedy and add some honey when the tea has cooled down (as excessive heat will destroy the benefits of honey).
- Add the black pepper and stir well.
- Enjoy your anti-inflammatory turmeric and ginger tea.
Alternatively, to increase curcumin absorption, you can add a teaspoon of virgin coconut oil instead of the black pepper, as oil too aids in turmeric absorption.
Turmeric tea recipe
If you want to make a simple quick cup of turmeric tea, this is what you should do:
- Put 1-2 teaspoon of fresh turmeric root or 1/2 teaspoon of turmeric powder in a cup.
- Fill with boiling water, cover and let infuse for 5 minutes.
- Add 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper.
- Add raw honey and lemon to taste when the tea has cooled down.
- Drink a cup a day to help reduce inflammation.
You can also try the recipe of the popular “turmeric golden milk” – a healthy and delicious Ayurvedic drink that can be enjoyed by the whole family.
Ginger tea recipe
Similarly, you can make a cup of ginger tea to help reduce inflammation and stimulate your immune system. Ginger tea on its own has many health benefits to relieve symptoms of cold, flu, or other upper respiratory infection.
To make a delicious ginger tea, follow the recipe for turmeric tea, but replace the turmeric with ginger. You can also leave out the black pepper.
How Heat Affects Turmeric and Ginger
Many people believe that consuming turmeric and ginger in their raw form retains the most health benefits of these herbs. However studies have shown that when curcumin is heated for a short period of time, certain compounds that are not readily available in its fresh form are released. You can get all the details and studies including how to use turmeric and black pepper when cooking in my article about this subject.
Similarly to turmeric, research has also shown that short cooking increases the antioxidant levels of 6-gingerol in ginger – see more information in my article about the amazing benefits of cooked and dried ginger.
Precautions When Taking Turmeric and Ginger
Although turmeric and ginger are natural healing ingredients and are generally safe for normal consumption, the medicinal compounds can interfere with other medications.
You should seek medical advice before taking turmeric and ginger for medical use if you are taking certain medications or have some underlying health issue. You should avoid turmeric and ginger if:
- You are taking medications to thin the blood or prevent blood clots.
- You take medication for diabetes. However, if you control diabetes through diet only, then turmeric and ginger may help to control blood glucose levels.
- You take medication for high blood pressure.
- You have a tendency to suffer from gallstones and kidney stones.
Also, consuming these herbs in medicinal amounts is likely unsafe in pregnant and breastfeeding women. See more information in my articles:
Read my other related articles:
- This Drink is a Medicine for More Than 60 Diseases
- Turmeric Golden Milk – The Ancient Drink That Will Change Your Life
- Kill Your Infections With This Natural Antibiotic
- JohnHopkinsHealthReview. Understanding inflammation.
- NCBI. Turmeric: the golden spice.
- Planta Med. 1998 May;64(4):353-6.
- NCBI. The amazing and might ginger.
- Adv Pharmacol Sci. 2016; 2016: 9130979.
- J Med Food. 2005 Summer;8(2):125-32.
- Biochem Biophys Res Commun. 2014 Jun 20;449(1):8-13.
- Evid Based Complement Alternat Me 2012; 2012: 383062.
- Ayu. 2012 Oct-Dec; 33(4): 499–504.
- Ann Indian Acad Neurol. 2008 Jan-Mar; 11(1): 13–19.
- Eur J Gastroenterol Hepatol. 2008 May;20(5):436-40.
- Int J Prev Med. 2013 Apr; 4(Suppl 1): S36–S42.
- Integr Med Insights. 2016; 11: 11–17.
- Syst Rev. 2014; 3: 71.
- Int J Cardiol. 2009 Apr 3;133(2):145-51.
- J Cardiovasc Pharmacol. 2005 Jan;45(1):74-80.
- Vascul Pharmacol. 2005 Oct;43(4):234-41.
- Curr Cardiol Rev. 2010 Nov; 6(4): 274–279.
- Nitric Oxide. 2014 Nov 15;42:44-53.
- J Nutr. 2000 May;130(5):1124-31.
- J Clin Immunol. 2007 Jan;27(1):19-35.
- Molecules. 2015 Feb 5;20(2):2728-69
- Gastroenterol Res Pract. 2015; 2015: 142979.
- Iran J Pharm Res. 2015 Winter; 14(1): 131–140.
- Int J Biochem Cell Biol. 2009; 41(1): 40–59.
- Eur Rev Med Pharmacol Sci . 2013 Jan;17(1):75-83.
- Eur Rev Med Pharmacol Sci. 2015 Nov;19(21):4195-202.
- Pharmacol Biochem Behav. 2009 Mar;92(1):39-43.
- Physiol Behav. 2015 Dec 1;152(Pt A):264-71.
For those who of you who are unfamiliar with turmeric; it has been shown to increase antioxidant activity, it reduces inflammation, improves brain function, and even more!
II would like to know more about the natuarl way to treat pain(ginger tea) .
Hi Gladys, you can also refer to my article about treating pain with essential oils – https://www.healthyandnaturalworld.com/essential-oils-to-relieve-pain/ and to my article about the best herbs to relieve joint pain and how to use them – https://www.healthyandnaturalworld.com/best-herbs-to-relieve-joint-pain/
I would like to natural remedies to help ease menstural pain
Thank you.
There are quite a number of suggestions to help ease menstrual pain, and you will need to find what works best for you and gives you better results. You can get ideas from here – http://www.onemedical.com/blog/live-well/from-our-acupuncturist-6-ways-to-reduce-period-pain/ and http://www.thankyourbody.com/menstrual-cramp-remedies-natural/
You can also try using essential oils that some of them may help in relieving pain caused by PMS. See more information here – https://www.healthyandnaturalworld.com/essential-oils-to-relieve-pain/
1 tbs Blackstrap molasses daily starting the week before my cycle starts and continue during my cycle. Almost no cramps….
Swallow some 50 Fenugreek seeds with water. In 3 days menstrual pain will vanish.
In three days your period will be over!!!
It’s very very helpful.I used chinise tea, chinamonstick, Ginger and turmeric, is it ok?
I am not familiar with this type of Chinese tea and couldn’t find information about it, but generally speaking you can add ginger and turmeric to any other tea you like.
Doesthis tea have to b made from the root? Cant u just use from the bottles of spices and mix it up?
You can use ground spices too. Since ground spices are more concentrated that the fresh herbs, you typically use third the amount. For example, 1 teaspoon of fresh herb should be replaced by about 1/3 teaspoon of ground spice.
Is this tea of ginger and tumeric effective in muscle spams?
According to Livestrong website, turmeric may not be useful when treating muscle spasms, but I know that ginger is good for that, so you may want to try this tea.
Can anybody make there own essential oils ??
I’ve been hearing more and more positive healthy
Comments about them but also hear it’s $$.??
Thanks Colleen
Hi Colleen, while I’ve seen references that it is possible to make your own essential oils if you purchase some equipment, the quality will be affected. In the distillation process the pressure and temperature levels have to be monitored so as to not destroy the benefits of the essential oil. Also you need a huge amount of plant material to make a small amount of essential oil. It’s actually much cheaper (time and money wise) to purchase essential oils then to make your own essential oils.
Just wanted to mention, that every pain/inflamation in your body is caused by 1. Yeast, 2. Fungus and 3. Candida
You need to get rid of that. A very high doses of probiotics will help this process.
Think about this as well…
What type of probiotics? Please give name.
Mary I use Florajen3 and they may still have a coupon on the website.
http://www.florajen.com/products-florajen3.shtml
entero germina 5 ml vial
Absolutely on the mark! Yeast or Fungus or Candida Albicans are the root of the pain.
I read that turmeric had to be used in conjunction with ground black pepper. Is that true and is the tea just as effective without it? Would there be any benefit from adding it?
Hi Kira, some physicians advise their patients to take turmeric in a supplement form which is usually combined with a compound called piperine (found in black pepper), which aids absorption. This is also the recommendation of Dr. Andrew Weil (http://www.drweil.com/drw/u/QAA400915/Curcumin-or-Turmeric.html). Dr. Weil also recommends that if you’re cooking with turmeric, be sure to add some black pepper to the food, so I believe that adding a little bit of ground black pepper to the turmeric tea will help with better absorption.
I have been using turmeric for some time now to treat my arthritis, it has so much improved my life. I decided to research turmeric and find out all I can, I found ways to increase ins absorption and overall improve its effect, I also come across other hrbs that can help you and your health, I have developed a web site so I can share this with everybody.
http://www.turmiracle.com/
Mr.web can u help me..im suffering rheumatoid athritis really painful how did u use turmeric can u share it with me..looking forward for your help..thank you so much God bless!
Protandim has peer revied studies you can read on pubmed.gov. All natural patented herbal compliation.
Hi I was told recently that by adding honey and lemon to this mix it’s effective for detox and a gradual weight loss. Would that have any truth
Generally speaking, lemon water aids digestion (and ginger and turmeric themselves aid digestion and are good for liver cleansing). The lemon reduces the amount of mucus production in the body, helps dissolve gallstones and acts as a liver cleansing and detoxifying. It may also help your diet as lemon is full of pectin fibers that make us feel satisfy for longer. Read here more about the benefits of lemon water – https://www.healthyandnaturalworld.com/8-health-benefits-of-drinking-lemon-water/ – however it’s not a magic solution. If you continue consuming unhealthy diet, then this is alone will not do the job.
Jenny. Hi. So its okay to drink turmeric and ginger mix without pepper? What is the taste of with pepper?
You need the black pepper to increase turmeric absorption, but you can replace it with some type of fat (like coconut oil) which also aids turmeric absorption.
Hi this might be a silly question, but when using ginger root in teas, do I peel the skin off or leave it on (or does it not matter). Thank you
Hi Lisa, peeling is optional, if you have washed it well.
Any remedies for eye allergies & inflammed eyelids??
Thanks
I’ve seen many references in the web that suggest all sorts of treatments such as castor oil, aloe vera, tea bags, baking soda, witch hazel, cucumbers and more, but I don’t know how effective they are and because the eyes are sensitive area, it’s better to be cautious before applying all sorts of applications. Looking at Mayo Clinic website, they simply recommend an eye care routine, as good eyelid hygiene can help to ease your symptoms and prevent it happening again. Have a look here – http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/blepharitis/basics/lifestyle-home-remedies/con-20024605
Also see the suggestions in NHS website about eyelid hygiene and cleaning solution – http://www.nhs.uk/Conditions/Blepharitis/Pages/Treatment.aspx
I have degenerative disc disease. (neck and lower back). What would you recommend for this?
Hi Helen, there are few suggestions that repeat in several places, such as chiropractor, physical therapy, massage, hot & cold therapy and even acupuncture. You can get more information by looking at the sources below. It’s hard to know what will work best for you as everyone is different, and you may need to experiment with more than one treatment to see what works best for you.
1. Livestrong website – http://www.livestrong.com/article/24126-natural-remedies-degenerative-disc-disease/
2. Physical therapy – http://www.livestrong.com/article/24126-natural-remedies-degenerative-disc-disease/
3. Acupuncture and alternative treatments – http://www.spineuniverse.com/conditions/degenerative-disc/alternative-treatments-degenerative-disc-disease
Hi Helen ,
Just noticed your comment and wanted to say I have the same condition and found huge relief by avoiding dairy – it was by accident . I stopped drinking milk for another reason , nothing to do with pain . Six months later a friend asked how my back pain was and I realized that the pain was significantly less and coincided with eliminating milk . I do still eat cheeses and occasionally a dairy treat like ice cream , however not at all in the amounts I used to .
This is not to say that the wonderful teas like turmeric and ginger are not helpful – they most certainly are -just wanted to share this with you as well 🙂
It is good
I would like to know if there is any herb that can bring relief to someone who has from painful heels.
Hi Leddy, you need to find out first what’s causing you the heel pain. According to NHS website, plantar fasciitis is the most common cause of heel pain, accounting for around four out of five cases (read more about it here). However heel pain can also be a result of sciatica for example or pinched nerve (as well as other causes), so it’s really important to get a proper diagnosis and treatment suggestions from a professional medical practitioner.
Please don’t add flax oil to your tea. heat destroys flax oil’s goodness.
Hi Jenny and readers, I watched my sister,Jessica, grating and processing ginger and turmeric for months to make an anti inflammatory healthy tea called Jamu Juice. To reap the teas benefits you must drink it regularly for a while and this was a lot of work. Then in July she could no longer find fresh turmeric so she began to mix powdered turmeric and ginger and 8 other spices into a chai tea like mix, that she adds to hot water or coconut milk. Its a lot easier than grating the roots and seems to have the same health benefits. You should check out her recipes and turmeric-ginger spice mixes on her website: jamujuice.com ! Enjoy the easiest way to make this tea a part of your daily routine!
Hello I have pain in my knees and in my elbow joints kindly give me some herbal treatment for this I have low vitamin d3.
Please refer to my article about the best spices & herbs to relieve joint pain and how to use them – see here.
I find it a bother to do fresh turmeric or ginger every time, so I grate and store in jars in the fridge…. The turmeric And ginger am using now has been in the fridge for 2 weeks…. Does the storage affect its potency?
Hi Winnie, I have read that the best way to store ginger is to keep it whole, unpeeled in a resealable plastic bag, with the air pushed out, in the crisper drawer of the refrigerator. If part of the ginger has been cut or peeled, you need to blot it dry with a paper towel before storing. If the ginger is grated, it’s best to keep it in the freezer. It is similar with turmeric: fresh, unpeeled turmeric will keep in the refrigerator for two to three weeks. To store, wipe dry, wrap in a clean paper towel and place in a locking plastic bag. When you’re ready to use the turmeric, cut off just what you need. Then, rewrap the remainder and refrigerate. You can also freeze grated turmeric. It will be mushy when it thaws out, but fine to add to your dish.
I want to make turmeric & Ginger Tea , but I do not want to boil the tea being made so I do not reduce the strength of the turmeric valu. I want put the prepared tea on a warm place on my wood stove and let ingredients steep for 8-12hours. I do this when I brew my Chagall tea to prevent destroying important enzymes. Also prefer to add flax seed oil, or black pepper only in the freshly poured cup of tea. Please give me you,re thought and feeling as to my brewing method. Thank You! Bruce Maheu
Hi Bruce, I’ve heard that prolonged heat can affect to a certain extent the potency though 7-15 minutes for preparing a tea is acceptable in many tea recipes. But there are several preparation methods available and you can prepare it the way you’ve suggested. Also as per the recipe, you add the oil or black pepper after the tea is ready (I will make it more clear in the recipe).
When I make a turmeric/ginger/pepper tea it gives off an aroma. What it gives off is being removed from the tea I drink. Would it not provide a more complete “tea” if the ingredients were mixed in cold or lukewarm water and then drunk immediately?
Preparing herbal tea (infusion or steeping) is just one way of using herbs as a medicine. The infusion extracts the chemical compounds from the herb/plant so they are suspended in the liquid. But there are other ways to consume the herbs/spices, for example adding them to smoothies/juices/other drinks, eating them etc. So there is flexibility regarding how to consume them and you can utilize other ways of consuming them, such as what you’ve suggested.
Hi Jenny I am from delta state of Nigeria. The thing is that I do not know how a tuneric root look like and also how to get it.
Hi Patricia, if you go to Google images and type “turmeric root” you can see images of it. As to where to get it – you can also use powdered turmeric which is available in the supermarkets.
Hi I woke up suffering from an upset tummy when I remember that my mom gave me turmeric powder so I boiled water and pour a teaspoon of it on my cup and drink .What an instant relief ! Browsing the net about its benefits bring me to this site.I just wanna know how can I process/ make my own turmeric -ginger tea powder. Thanks a lot !
Can you make this tea in a big batch and store in the fridge, to reheat as needed? Or will that affect the potency? Thanks
You can make a larger batch and store in the fridge.
Does anyone know how long freshly made ginger & tumeric tea will stay fresh if stored in the refridgerator? Does it lose its potency? I like to make it in a big batch and keep it for a few day….I’m not sure if I’m getting the same benefits as when I drink it when it’s freshly made.
Thanks in advance for your comments.
You can prepare a larger batch and store in the fridge for several days.
I assume your recipe includes honey and lemon juice as flavourings and not as active ingredients. Am I right? As honey is said to have a mild anti-bacterial effect, should we not avoid it unless we want to disrupt the good bacteria in our gut as well as the bad?
Hi Keith, you are right, lemon and honey can be added as flavorings. As for the effect of honey on gut flora, from what I’ve seen in this study, honey can inhibit the harmful bacteria but it didn’t mention that it reduces the good bacteria (the study was on mice).
Instead of extra virgin oil or flaxseed oil I can use olive oil? How about green tea and turmeric ? Thank you !
You can add any type of cold presses oil, including extra virgin olive oil. Green tea has also many benefits including anti-inflammatory properties. The University of Maryland Medical Center mentions that green tea may also be useful in inflammatory diseases, such as arthritis and more.
I have made Turmeric and ginger tea instead of adding pepper to it I pop a couple of peppercorns with it.
hi I was wondering is ginger and or turmeric help with psoriasis?
Both turmeric and ginger have anti-inflammatory properties that may help with psoriasis. There are several ways to use these spices – I’ve seen several references that talk about consuming turmeric in drinks or as a supplement (turmeric extract) for treating psoriasis or using turmeric paste (turmeric mixed with water) to create a topical application. Other references mention ginger as well, such soaking in ginger bath, or using grated ginger or diluted ginger essential oil in base oil as a topical application. I guess it worth experimenting with these ingredients to see it they work for you.
Hi. Can turmeric tea help with liver inflammation? For how long do you need to drink it? Thanks
Turmeric has many health benefits, most notably reducing inflammation, and it may also protect and heal damaged and diseased liver, however it depends how much the liver is damaged. Obviously if the inflammation is serious, you cannot rely only on turmeric and medical advice is needed. There is no established amount of time as to how long you need to drink it, but probably it takes several weeks to take effect. It can also be part of your daily diet if you consume it in normal food quantities. Turmeric and ginger may interact with some medications, so if you take certain medications, talk with your doctor.
Good evening, I would like to ask what to eat and when especially against constipation. Thank you Andrea
Hi Andrea, you can refer to the following articles for more information:
1. The 10 Best Natural Remedies for Constipation
2. The Best Natural Laxatives For Constipation
Although I have not yet tried this particular recipe, I already approve of it! None of the ingredients have any side effects provided they are taken in such controlled and normal quantities. Unless you are allergic or some strong medicines in which case just skip that ingredient or consult your doctor. Trust me…I’m Indian and we know our home remedies. Turmeric (esp. raw) is such an underrated medicine! It is also a blood purifier and has antiseptic properties. You can drink it, chew it or use it topically on wounds. I have sensitive and acne prone skin. Once I started drinkin 3-4 tbsp of fresh turmeric juice every morning for a month and I kid you not my skin became visible clearer, brighter and glowy! I would’ve continued it if I weren’t so lazy. 😛
Hi, will coconut milk be OK instead of coconut oil,I don’t particularly like the oil.
The role of the coconut oil in this mix is to increase the turmeric absorption in the body (turmeric has a low bio-availability and needs some kind of fat for better absorption). If you don’t like coconut oil, you have several other options: you can use other type of oil such as flaxseed oil. If you don’t want to add oil to the mix, you can add instead a pinch of black pepper which also aids turmeric absorption. The third option can be to add coconut milk which has a high fat content and will aid turmeric absorption.
I’ve Been Making Ginger And Tumeric Root Tea But Didn’t Know About Adding Coconut Oil Or Milk For Extra Absorbtion. That Sounds Like A Tasty Beverage For Your Insides And Out. I Just Recently Got Turned On To Tumeric And Ginger Root Tea. The Ginger Helps In Digestion And The Tumeric Root Is A Anti Inflammatory. What A Perfect Combination. Thank You.
Coconut oil or black pepper. You can add milk for the taste, or if the milk contains fat (not the type of low-fat milk) than it can aid absorption too.
Would like to try this.I work 2 jobs need to know since I never tried ginger or turmeric, will I get the runs from this? Can’t afford to be running to the bathroom all the time.
Hi Laura, some herbs may have a diuretic effect (and I’ve seen ginger mentioned in several places) and obviously the more liquids you drink, the more you will get the runs. I guess you need to experiment and see what quantity works for you. It’s also a good idea not to drink it late in the evening so you will not need to go to the toilet in the middle of the night.
I was wondering if this tea helps to lower your A1C. Thanks!
I’m looking into making this tea. How much of each ginger and tumeric if I was using a powder? Also does it matter if I make it one cup at a time or a pot of the mixture? Thank you.
Hi Steve, if you use ground turmeric and ginger, use 1/3 teaspoon each. Because dried herbs are generally more potent and concentrated than fresh herbs, you’ll need less – typically third the amount of fresh herbs. You can make a pot of the mixture and drink throughout the day, but avoid over-consumption as ginger and turmeric can interact with certain prescription medications.
When my hands are swollen from RA, slicing and cutting are difficult. I have ginger tea and ground tumeric. Is it OK to use the tea bags and make a mixture that way?
Yes, it is.
Can someone with Hepatitis B which is diagnose to be chronic blend Turmeric and Ginger together and drink. If Yes what’s the benefit, can someone help me
Hi! Im sufferring for gastritris for a month now. I’ve taken omeprazole and relieved after almost 2 weeks but i feel it came back again. Is it ok to take turmeric tea along with omeprazole? Thanks.
I don’t know Dennis (I’m not a doctor). Best to consult with your doctor to be on the safe side of things.
I make a tea with fresh tumuric , ginger then finish it by adding green tea, honey, pepper, and apple cider vinegar and some dried turmeric. Take a few shots every day.
Hi… I just want to ask if can I make this tea good for one week and store it in drinking jar inside the fridge? I’m planning to put it in my lunch box everyday. Does it matter if the tea is warm or cold? Can I boil some peppercorn together with it instead of putting a pepper after? Can I mix the lemon and honey too before putting it in the jars? Tnx
Hi Charlene, you can drink it hot or cold and you can make it in a larger quantity and store in the fridge. However a few notes: the vitamin C in lemon is relatively unstable hence it’s best to add it fresh to the mix rather than letting it sit in the fridge for several days. I don’t know how heat affects the piperine in black pepper so I would add it after the boiling stage. When you add honey and you don’t intend to drink it straight away but rather store it in the fridge, wait for the water to cool down a bit and don’t add the honey to boiling water as excessive heat will destroy the nutrients in honey.
Hi jenny I have a memory loss problem what can I use that’s effective? I don’t like pills as they tend to damage the lever.
You can refer to the following articles:
1. Improve Memory With These Foods
2. The Best Herbs to Improve Memory and Brain Function, Including Brain Enhancer Tincture Recipe
3. Scientists Find Sniffing Rosemary Can Increase Memory By 75%
4. 9 Important Reasons to Consume More Omega 3 Fatty Acids
I’ve heard about the turmeric/ginger/pepper tea from a friend’s mother who is from India. She told me that if I make it right in my coffee pot and drink it, just like water/tea it will give me the same benefits as being boiled. I now make several pots on the weekend and place it in the fridge. It is great cold and warm. About two years ago, I was placed on a chemical medication for my arthritis, the pill caused so many side effects that the doctor had me go through many tests, I thought I would lose my mind with appointments. Now, everything is back to normal, in less than three months. I will be 60 years old and the only one at my job that will play with the children at recess time. I think it’s great!
Can I use cayenne instead of black pepper?
I’ve read that cayenne pepper does not contain the piperine that is in black pepper and therefore will not have the effect that black pepper has.
Due to some overtraining i was lucky enough to receive really bad shoulder pain, like from the underam to the top of the shoulder. For weeks. I started looking at some options that arent iboprufen. Saw this tea after a week of just stretching wasnt fixing it. Now with the tea i am feeling much better each day. It could just be timing as i spent a week or so just stretching, but it was the very next morning after the tea that i felt better. Due to these results ive started having one in the mnorning and one in the evening. Started to do a herbal ‘sleepy tea’ instead of green in the evening to drop the caffeine. Would 2 cups a day be too much?
2 cups a day is fine.
Hi Jenny,
what time should i drink the turmeric and ginger tea if i want to loss weight
Losing weight requires approach that involves proper nutrition and physical exercise. There are various tools that can help you reach your goal faster. For more information please refer to my article about How to Lose Weight and Belly Fat with Ginger.
Do I have to cook it? Can I mix and drink?
You don’t have to steep the herbs. You can also mix and drink it.
Hi, how many times a day can one consume the ginger & tumeric tea?
Once or twice a day. Ginger and turmeric are generally safe to consume in normal food quantities. However some people need to restrict the amount of consuming these spices. See more information in my articles: Ginger Should Be Avoided By These People and Turmeric Should Be Avoided By These People.
Hi I was just wondering… Is a prepared tea (such as Twinings Lemon Ginger Tea) as effective as a homemade tea? Thank you!
I don’t think there is any issue with drinking a tea made from “store bought” tea bags. Perhaps the only issue is that when you make a “homemade” tea, you have a better control over the quantities of the ingredients you use in the brew. For example, looking at the ingredients of Twinings ginger lemon tea I saw that there are other ingredients in the mix, such as lemongrass, linden, blackberry leaves and citric acid. This is not a bad thing, but I don’t really know how much ginger (for this matter) there is in the mix. But other than that I think it comes to a personal preference.
Does this tea help if you have pelvic inflammatory disease?
PID is treated with antibiotics. If you have PID you need to contact your doctor ASAP.
Hi Jenny, just was wondering what company processes the best forms of ground turmeric and ginger?
Thank you !
I don’t really know to be honest. You don’t really know what is behind a certain company. Just buy a reputable brand and hope for the best.
I am a Type 1 Diabetic, do I have to use honey in the recipe or can I use artificial sweetener and get the same results?
You can replace the honey with another sweetener, but I don’t recommend artificial sweetener (read about the surprising findings of this research about artificial sweeteners and diabetes). I recommend to use stevia – have a look at my article about stevia to find out what to watch for when buying commercial stevia.
why should you NOT drink ginger and turmeric tea if you have had kidney stones before? happened years ago and have not happened again since i don’t believe but what’s the problem with ginger and turmeric in relation to kidney stones?
Please refer to my article “Turmeric Should Be Avoided By These People” for more information.