Herbs and spices make our foods and drinks more delicious. But it is not a secret that many natural products are packed with active biochemical that are very beneficial for our health! If you have a sore throat, ginger can become a healthy alternative to unpleasant chemical OTC medications, such as sprays and lozenges. The wonderful biochemistry of this pungent root can save you possible complications, recovery time, and stress from unsavory treatment. It is a win-win situation. So, in this article, we are telling you everything about battling throat pain with ginger.
Why Ginger
Ginger has been a part of folk medicine in Asian, Indian, and Arabic cultures. From a scientific point of view, ginger owes its medicinal properties to volatile (essential) oils and phenol compounds: shogaols and gingerols. By the way, it is phenol compounds that give ginger its pungent taste and odor.
We should bear in mind that clinically, ginger has been only studied in vitro. This means, the majority of research on its properties only included laboratory tests with extracts, tissue examples, and that sort of thing. Trials that included human volunteers, only target a very specific subject and have a limited pool of participants.
This means that ginger cannot be addressed as a treatment foundation in case of an acute bacterial infection that requires antibiotics, for example. But for a simple cold or flu (which is viral in nature), conditions that your body can overcome by itself, ginger can do wonders.
Anti-inflammatory properties
Pain in the throat is a cardinal sign of inflammation. And ginger has demonstrated anti-inflammatory activity. The researchers suggested that 6‐gingerol inhibits pro-inflammatory cytokines.
Ginger’s anti-inflammatory properties were also suggested to be researched in relation to its ability to cause bronchodilation which is beneficial for those who have asthma as it helps them breathe. However, more research in this area is needed.
Antioxidant benefits
Gingerols, shogaols, zingerone, and other bioactive constituents of ginger demonstrated antioxidant properties. During in vitro studies, they inhibited an enzyme called xanthine oxidase, known for the generation of superoxide radicals.
Free radicals interact with cells promoting their aging, mutations, and triggering malignant growth. Antioxidants prevent tissues from inflammatory and oxidative damage.
Antimicrobial effects
In laboratory studies, concentrated ginger extract and fresh ginger root have shown activity against some pathogens, such as Staphylococcus aureus and Streptococcus pyogenes, which cause bacterial infections. Additionally, there is some evidence that ginger may have an antiviral effect.
This does not mean that ginger can be used to treat an ongoing infection but it can be sufficient to prevent infection development.
Best Ginger Remedies for Throat Pain
So, what are the best sore throat ginger remedies? Where do you get them and how do you use them?
Ginger Tea
Warm tea is good for sore throat as is. It keeps it moistened to relieve the irritation, keeps you warm, and flushes down mucus contaminated with pathogens so the stomach acid can deal with them. With ginger, however, you are adding all the benefits we talked about earlier, to the picture. Ginger tea is better for alleviating pain, reducing inflammation, and preventing bacteria growth.
To prepare homemade ginger tea, put 2 teaspoons of grated fresh ginger or dry ginger powder into a cup of boiling water. Let it infuse for 5 minutes, filter ginger, and drink when it is pleasantly hot. You can add lemon or honey.
Ginger and Honey Paste
Speaking of honey. Honey also has antimicrobial, antiviral, and anti-inflammatory properties. And its viscous texture has a great soothing effect.
You can combine the benefits of ginger and honey for throat pain and cook delicious and healthy homemade pasta. Simply put grated ginger into a frying pan, cover with honey, and let it simmer on low heat for 15 minutes, gently stirring from time to time.
Ginger Lozenges
Lozenges with ginger extract is an option for those who want everything to be quick, convenient, and efficient. You can find them in your local pharmacy or grocery store; also, you can order them online.
Just remember that after you dissolve a lozenge, it is better not to drink or eat for at least 30 minutes, so that beneficial compounds will not be washed down your throat.
Ginger Infused Warm Water Gargle
If you do not enjoy the taste of ginger too much but still want all these health benefits for yourself, you can gargle with ginger water to treat throat pain. By doing so, you warm your throat, get rid of contaminated mucus, and antibacterial compounds from ginger still can get into your throat.
To make ginger-infused water, follow these steps:
- Grate half a teaspoon of fresh clean ginger root;
- Boil 4 cups of water;
- Add ginger into boiling water;
- Remove from the stove and let steep for 10 minutes;
- Drain ginger particles;
- Once the infusion is not too hot, gargle with it. Repeat the procedure 3–4 times per day.
Ginger and Turmeric Smoothie
Turmeric is popular for its bright color and taste. It is also known as a natural anti-inflammatory agent and pain reliever. If this sounds too similar to ginger, you are not wrong, and this is why it is a good idea to blend both foods in a smoothie.
There are a lot of recipes online on how to prepare a ginger and turmeric smoothie. Some include coconut milk, some also use tropical fruit. Find and try one that fits your personal preferences the most, and enjoy a wonderful combination of taste and healthiness.
Also, now is a good time for us to remind you that if you are allergic to some of the aforementioned products, you absolutely should not use them! And if you notice that you feel sick after using ginger, honey, or any other natural remedy, contact your healthcare provider immediately.
Summary
Clinical evidence on the health benefits of ginger is still lacking because there are more funding, studies, and human volunteers required. However, in vitro experiments and anecdotal evidence suggest that ginger provides multiple health benefits for a sore throat caused by cold, flu, and other similar cases.
There are many ways to use ginger as a remedy for throat pain. The person can choose one that fits their lifestyle and preferences the most to maximize their comfort and treatment efficiency.
FAQ
Does ginger and honey cure sore throat?
It is suggested that they can relieve pain and reduce swelling and inflammation which greatly improves the time of recovery.
Can I combine multiple ginger remedies?
Yes; you can gargle with ginger water and dissolve lozenges without any issue. However, be careful so as not to become too sensitive to its taste. It is a balancing and individual act.
Can children and pregnant women use these remedies?
There is no clinical evidence on whether or not ginger has an effect on the fetus. It is suggested that ginger can reduce nausea and toxicosis in pregnant patients. Children under the age of two are not advised to consume ginger, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center.