Cold, flu, and Covid season are upon us.  If you aren’t sick or healing from being sick, you probably know someone who is!

During this round of having Covid, I leaned heavily on ginger and feel inspired to share my under-the-weather ginger soothers for the cold and flu season.

This humble root has been cherished for centuries, not only for its incredible flavor but also for its numerous health-boosting properties.  Let’s dive into the world of ginger and discover how ginger can enhance your well-being.

Nutritional Benefits of Ginger:

• Digestive Dynamo:  Ginger is renowned for its digestive benefits.  It stimulates the production of digestive enzymes, helping to break down food more efficiently.  If you’re experiencing indigestion, an upset stomach, or loss of appetite, ginger tea may provide some relief!

• Anti-inflammatory Powerhouse:  Ginger contains bioactive compounds like gingerol, which have potent pain relieving properties! Especially pain relieving for joint pain, migraines, and menstrual cramps.

• Immune System Support:  The antioxidants in ginger help strengthen the immune system, making your body stronger to fight infections!  It’s a great addition to your diet, especially during cold and flu season.  

  • Utilized in Chinese herbal medicine to warm the lungs, relieve coughing, and help transform phlegm.   

With ginger, your future self thanks you: utilizing the warming effects of ginger in the fall will nourish your immune system and lungs to help reduce seasonal allergies next spring.

Ginger Toddy Recipe

• 1.5 cups water (adjust based on your mug or jar size)

• 3-6 slices of fresh/frozen ginger (washed, unpeeled)

• ¼ tsp honey (I actually just dip a fork into the jar and let most drain off, add to the jar)

  • I like to use local, raw honey!

• ½ lemon, adjust to taste

• Cayenne, to taste (optional)

Instructions:

• Bring water to a boil

• Add ginger to boiling water

• Reduce heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes

• Strain the tea into a cup

• Add honey, lemon juice, and cayenne pepper if using

• Enjoy the soothing and healing benefits of this tea!

*Instead of making a fresh batch every time, use the same ginger throughout the day and add the other ingredients to taste each time.

**Ginger will only last for a few weeks in the fridge.  Slice it into quarter-sized pieces and store it in the freezer for up to six months.