Ginger | One of Tea’s Most Versatile Ingredients
The next tea ingredient we are going to shine a spotlight on is ginger. Well known to many and beloved for numerous reasons. We are going to take a closer look into the origin and flavor profile of ginger, and what makes it so prevalent and sought after in everyday life and our cup of tea. From cooking and mixed beverages to health supplements and home remedies, ginger has been used for many years. It will continue to be a staple ingredient in various tea blends.
Ginger Flavor Profile
Ginger has been used in a wide variety of things, and that is probably due in large part to its dynamic flavor profile. It could be described as zesty and hot, but also sweet and warm. It has a slightly woody flavor that helps create a mildness to its overall taste. With ginger, its aroma is just as powerful as its flavor. Because of its complex character, ginger has been known to be paired with some unlikely flavors. From chocolate and fruit to ham and carrots, ginger is well-loved by cooks. It is versatile and can elevate the taste of many dishes and beverages.
Origin Story of Ginger
Ginger is indigenous to China and is related to turmeric and cardamom. From China, it spread to other parts of Asia, as well as the Spice Islands and West Africa. It is a flowering plant of the Zingiberaceae family. The root or stem is used for cooking or in treating ailments. Initially used by ancient Greeks and Romans, ginger later arrived in Europe through the spice trade. As its popularity grew, production did as well. In 2018 the world production of ginger was 2.8 million tons, and India was the largest producer.
Ginger Tea Benefits
Ginger tea has been known to help with nausea from pregnancy or chemotherapy, motion sickness, and improve blood pressure and heart health. The dizziness, vomiting, and cold sweats that come with motion sickness have been known to lessen with the consumption of ginger. Ginger tea has helped with nausea from pregnancy or chemo, especially when a prescriptive drug is not recommended or is not helping. Ginger has also been known to help lower blood pressure, relieve heartburn, and improve blood circulation. Ginger can alleviate pain and discomfort, such as sore muscles, headaches, and lessen inflammation. The antioxidants in ginger also help support the immune system and reduce stress. These are just a few of the many benefits of adding ginger to your diet.
Whether you are looking for a natural supplement to help with general overall health or a natural remedy to a particular ailment, ginger could be the answer. It can spice up a meal or support your immune system and help with a headache or nausea. Fortunately, you don't just have to swallow some ginger pill supplement, you can actually enjoy your ginger intake. Here at Hackberry, we have some incredible loose-leaf teas featuring ginger mixed with a wonderful blend of other delicious and beneficial ingredients. We all want ingredients that help support a healthy body and how great is it that you can enjoy a delightful cup of tea at the same time! That is what I call "killing two birds with one cup of tea."
