SIDE EFFECTS OF GINGER TEA-min

SIDE EFFECTS OF GINGER TEA

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Ginger tea is a common drink that many think is purely beneficial. But like any other product, it may possess some side effects. Ginger is a root spice that mostly grows in warm climates, and it was first grown in parts of Asia. Later, it spread to other parts of the world, such as Africa and America. Today, it is among the most used spice worldwide. It is used in different ways and, in some areas, it is used as a homemade remedy for nausea and vomiting. Others use it as a spice for their food. It is rich in antioxidants, which is why it has been effectively used to prevent and manage diseases such as high blood pressure. Ginger is also used to make ginger tea. That said, we shall discuss some of the negative side effects of ginger tea, how to prepare ginger it, and some of its positive effects.

How to prepare ginger tea.

Wash enough piece of ginger root depending on how strong you want it to be. Peel the root. Please place it in a motor and grind it using a pestle. Put two to three cups of water in a boiling pot. Add the ground ginger. Allow it to boil for about ten to twenty minutes. The degree of boiling also determines how strong the tea will be. Please remove it from heat and cover for a few minutes. Sieve it in a cup. You can add other spices such as lemon to enhance the taste.

Positive effects of ginger tea.

Ginger is believed to have many positive effects on users. Some of these benefits are supported by science, while others are not. These benefits are:

Reduces blood pressure.

Patients suffering from high blood pressure are encouraged to use ginger tea as it can reduce blood pressure. The ability to reduce blood pressure lies in the antioxidants that are found in this spice.

Ease nausea.

Ginger tea can be used as a home remedy for nausea. It stops and prevents nausea and vomiting. Pregnant women can use this tea to reduce this effect as it has no side effect on the pregnancy.

Prevention of cancer.

Ginger tea contains antioxidants. These antioxidants suppress the enlargement of cancerous tumors. It also prevents the growth of primary tumors that may end up being cancerous.

Treatment of arthritis.

Arthritis is the swelling and tenderness of joints.  Ginger tea provides the body with antioxidants. Antioxidants have anti-inflammatory effects that cure such diseases. Patients with arthritis should take at least 4 grams of ginger each day to improve their condition.

Cures respiratory problems.

Ginger tea can be used to cure less serious respiratory problems. It cures coughs in a shorter period compared to other anti-inflammatory drugs. Recently, some people have claimed to use ginger tea to ease symptoms of covid 19. However, there is no scientific evidence to support this claim.

Side Effects of Ginger Tea.

Increased production of bile.

Excess or long-term use of ginger is believed to cause more production of bile. Excess production of bile may lead to fecal incontinence due to the production of watery stool.  It can also lead to upper abdominal pains and unintended weight loss. However, there is no scientific support for this information. Those with gallbladder problems should take care not to worsen their condition. They should seek advice from a doctor before taking ginger tea.

Stomach upset and heartburn.

Some people get stomach upset and heartburn after using spices. Ginger as a spice may also cause discomfort to such people. Some stomach upset may be serious, affecting your daily activities. Such people should escape such discomfort by avoiding ginger tea.

Lowers blood pressure.

Continous use of ginger may cause low blood pressure. Low blood pressure is characterized by lightheadedness. It is dangerous as it may cause some body parts, such as the brain and heart, not to receive enough blood.  Lovers of ginger tea should occasionally monitor their blood pressure. If you notice changes in your blood pressure after using ginger tea, withdraw it and seek medical attention.

Blood thinner.

Blood thinners are used to prevent clotting from occurring hence the smooth flowing of blood. However, blood thinning can be dangerous. Some people have problems with clotting, which may lead to prolonged bleeding. The use of ginger might cause blood-thinning effects. It contains a substance called salicylates that acts as a blood thinner. Daily use of ginger tea may increase these chances of over bleeding to such patients. Patients planning to undergo surgery should withdraw from drinking ginger tea two weeks before the surgery.

Triggers some allergies.

Some people are allergic to ginger. It causes some rashes that begin in the mouth, later spreading to other parts. However, ginger is a friendly spice to many. Those allergic should avoid ginger tea.

Heavy menses.

Women who consume much ginger have shown an increase in their menstrual flow.  The maximum amount of ginger to be consumed in a day should not exceed 4 grams. Some people link the increase of the flow to the blood-thinning effect of ginger. Those who have experienced this effect should avoid ginger tea as it may lead to excessive bleeding during menses. However, more research is needed to support this finding.

The bottom line

Ginger tea taken in the right proportion can be helpful. One is not supposed to exceed 4 grams of ginger each day. Too much of something is believed to be poisonous. The overuse can lead to some side effects, especially to those having some underlying health issues. The lucky few with no such illnesses can enjoy the health benefits that come with ginger tea. There is a need for more scientific research to support some of the claims linked to the use of ginger tea. Most of the existing information is based on beliefs and experience that is not scientific. The lack of evidence should not act as evidence to the users. Those ginger tea lovers should observe any side effects and seek immediate medical attention.

Credits

We would like to thank the below contributors who have helped us to write this article:

Aumoz

Julia Davis

Mental health expert
MS, University of Latvia

I am deeply convinced that each patient needs a unique, individual approach. Therefore, I use different psychotherapy methods in my work. During my studies, I discovered an in-depth interest in people as a whole and the belief in the inseparability of mind and body, and the importance of emotional health in physical health. In my spare time, I enjoy reading (a big fan of thrillers) and going on hikes.

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