What is Ginger Black Tea?

Tea and ginger regularly find themselves on lists of the best superfoods. They are both natural, nutritional powerhouses linked to many health benefits. So, why not bring them together with a little ginger black tea? As the name suggests, ginger black tea is simply a combination of ginger and tea, one that adds a sharp, spicy kick to the tea while giving drinkers the best of both worlds when it comes to health benefits.

How to Make Ginger Black Tea

A good ginger black tea will contain only 2 ingredients: black tea and ginger. We recommend using fresh ginger root for maximum punch. You should also source the best tea you can find. The ginger is not there to mask the taste of low-quality tea. It’s there to enhance it, so use a good one, preferably something strong.

The ratio is a matter of personal preference, but we recommend using 3 to 6 thin slices of fresh ginger root for every 5g of black tea.

• Thinly slice the ginger root.
• Add the root to a saucepan, cover with water, and bring to a boil.
• Let the ginger infuse in the boiling water for 10 minutes.
• Remove the pan from the heat.
• Add 5g of black tea and infuse for 5 minutes.

You can then sweeten the tea to your liking. For a decadent cup, add a couple of teaspoons of honey and some whole milk. If you prefer your tea lighter, stronger, and sharper, skip the honey and the milk.

The Taste of Ginger Black Tea

Ginger black tea is punchy and sharp. The ginger also adds warmth to the tea, and it can feel like a big, warm hug—just like every spiced tea should feel. Of course, it depends on how much ginger you use and it’s important to get the balance right. Use too much or brew for too long and it can develop an astringent and unpleasant taste.

Benefits of Ginger Black Tea

Ginger is a heavily studied spice noted for its health benefits. Tea has also been studied extensively and is thought to provide many benefits, most of which are related to its antioxidant properties. Combined, it makes for an intriguing combination and could provide the following benefits:

It May Reduce Feelings of Nausea

Ginger has traditionally been used to help with morning sickness and general nausea, and there is actually some evidence to support these claims. In one substantial meta analysis, 109 studies were reviewed and researchers concluded that ginger could indeed help to reduce nausea and may also provide other gastrointestinal benefits.

It Has Antioxidant Effects

Both ginger and tea are noted for their antioxidant properties. In tea, these benefits stem from polyphenols like flavanols and catechins. In ginger, they mainly come from gingerol, a compound that has been studied for its effects on inflammatory diseases.

It Could be Cardioprotective

Tea drinkers have fewer instances of cardio problems, and ginger has a similar effect. A review from 2022 gave ginger to a number of participants and recorded a notable decrease in fasting blood sugar levels, as well as other lipid markers.

It May Help with Indigestion

Many proponents of ginger black tea recommend drinking it with or after a large meal and swear by its ability to aid digestion. There is some evidence to support this, including one study where participants consumed a ginger supplement before a big meal and recorded fewer issues with dyspepsia than those who took a placebo. Of course, ginger is also quite pungent, and it may not be helpful for people struggling with conditions like GERD.

It Can Reduce Menstrual Pain

Tea on its own doesn’t seem to do much for menstrual pain, but ginger could provide some relief. More studies are needed before any concrete conclusions can be drawn, but a 2018 study noted that ginger could reduce the severity of menstrual pain and was comparable to a medication known as Novafen (a mixture of acetaminophen, caffeine, and ibuprofen) in that regard.

Other Spices to Add to Ginger Black Tea

Turmeric works really well with ginger. If you can find some fresh turmeric root, add a couple of thin slices to the pan with the ginger and follow the same process as above. It’s good practice to use a little black pepper when consuming turmeric as it greatly increases the bioavailability. Cardamon pods and cinnamon work well too. After all, spices and black tea form the basis of chai tea, also known as masala tea. To enjoy it like the Indians do, add plenty of honey/sugar and whole milk or condensed milk.

Summary: Ginger Black Tea

Not only is ginger black tea delicious and easy to make, but as the above guide shows, it could work wonders for your health. Just remember to use fresh ginger where possible—the dried stuff doesn’t always hit the spot—and don’t be afraid to experiment with other spices.