Mind-Body Health

The Health Benefits of Ginger Tea

The Health Benefits of Ginger Tea
Ginger tea is one of the oldest medicinal drinks. From aiding the digestive system to opening inflamed airways, it can act as a health-promoting elixir for the full body. Learn how it heals and how to make it.

“Everything good is found in ginger,” states an old Indian proverb. That’s why Ayurveda often refers to ginger as a universal medicine. Chinese medicine, the other most ancient yet living tradition, also turns to ginger medicinally because it restores Yang, or hot energy. Currently, India and China produce most of the world’s ginger because it grows best in warm, damp areas.

The aromatic, spicy root has long been used in both traditional and Western healing systems to make tea. Ginger tea brings with it a host of powerful health benefits.

Ginger Tea and the Doshas



Ginger tea’s heating properties and qualities make it useful for treating Vata imbalances, such as digestive issues, because it improves all three phases of gastrointestinal function (digestion, absorption, and elimination).

During cool weather, sip ginger tea throughout the day. During warmer weather, try a cup in the morning or before a meal. Ginger intensifies Agni (digestive fire) so the Kapha dosha may find drinking ginger tea—2 to 3 cups daily, especially before meals—useful to help stimulate slow digestion and sharpen dull taste buds.

Ginger tea can slightly increase Pitta dosha, so avoid drinking large amounts if your Pitta is out of balance.

Ginger Tea’s Healing Effects



Tea made from ginger has high levels of vitamin C and amino acids, as well as various trace elements such as calcium, zinc, sodium, phosphorus, and many others.

Drinking ginger tea can:

  • Help the body absorb nutrients
  • Help alleviate an upset stomach
  • Help with irritable bowl syndrome
  • Help with weight loss
  • Help fight cancer
  • Help manage glucose levels
  • Improve blood circulation
  • Improve the food digestion
  • Increases the production of gastric juice
  • Protect against Alzheimer’s Disease
  • Open inflamed airways
  • Reduce arthritic inflammation
  • Relieve menstrual discomfort
  • Relieve stress
  • Stimulate appetite

Medical Caution: Always consult with your healthcare practitioner before using Chopra Center signature supplements if you have any health conditions.

*Editor’s Note: The information in this article is intended for your educational use only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health providers with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition and before undertaking any diet, supplement, fitness, or other health programs.