Ginger Lemon Tea Recipe – Quick Ayurvedic Remedy for Cold & Flu

Last Updated on 2 months by Neha Deshmukh

Ginger Lemon Tea Recipe – Quick Ayurvedic Remedy for Cold & Flu

Okay, let’s be real. Who doesn’t need a good, comforting cup of tea when a cold starts creeping in? I remember the first time I made this – my grandma swore by it whenever anyone in the family felt under the weather. Now, it’s my go-to, and I’m so excited to share this simple yet powerful Ginger Lemon Tea recipe with you! It’s a quick Ayurvedic remedy that truly works wonders.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This isn’t just any tea. It’s a hug in a mug! It’s incredibly easy to make, needing just a handful of ingredients you likely already have. Plus, it’s naturally soothing, warming, and packed with goodness to help fight off those pesky cold and flu symptoms. Seriously, it’s a lifesaver during the monsoon season (or any time you need a little pick-me-up).

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this magic potion:

• 2 cups water (approximately 480ml)
• 1 tablespoon ginger, grated (about 15-20 grams)
• 2 teaspoons fresh lemon juice (approximately 15ml)
• 2 teaspoons honey (approximately 10ml), or to taste

Ingredient Notes

Let’s talk ingredients! A few little things can make a big difference.

Ginger: Benefits & Varieties

Fresh ginger is key here. It’s got that lovely zing and all the medicinal properties we’re after. I prefer the older, knobbier ginger – it tends to be more potent. You can use any variety, though – from the common Indian ginger to the baby ginger.

Lemon Juice: Fresh vs. Bottled

Please, please, please use fresh lemon juice! The flavor is so much brighter and more vibrant. Bottled lemon juice just doesn’t compare. One lemon usually gives me about 2-3 teaspoons of juice.

Honey: Types & Health Benefits

Honey isn’t just for sweetness. It also has antibacterial properties and can soothe a sore throat. I love using local honey whenever possible. You can experiment with different types – wildflower, acacia, or even Manuka honey for an extra boost.

Water: Quality Considerations

Good quality water makes a difference in the taste of any tea. Filtered water is always a good choice.

Step-By-Step Instructions

Alright, let’s get brewing! It’s super simple, I promise.

1. First, bring 2 cups (480ml) of water to a boil in a saucepan.
2. Once boiling, add the grated ginger. Let it boil vigorously for 1-2 minutes. This helps release all those wonderful ginger compounds. You’ll smell the aroma filling your kitchen – so comforting!
3. Remove the saucepan from the heat. Now, stir in the fresh lemon juice.
4. Strain the tea into your favorite mugs using a fine-mesh strainer. This gets rid of the ginger bits.
5. Finally, add honey to taste and serve immediately. Enjoy!

Expert Tips

A few little things I’ve learned over the years:

• Don’t overboil the ginger. A minute or two is enough.
• Adjust the honey to your liking. Some days I like it sweeter, some days less so.
• For a stronger ginger flavor, you can slightly crush the ginger before grating.

Variations

Want to switch things up? Here are a few ideas:

Vegan Adaptation

Simply swap the honey for maple syrup or agave nectar. My friend, Priya, who’s vegan, loves using maple syrup – it gives the tea a lovely, subtle flavor.

Spice Level Adjustment

If you like a little more heat, add a tiny pinch of black pepper. It helps with ginger absorption, too!

Ayurvedic Adaptations – Adding Tulsi or Turmeric

For an extra Ayurvedic boost, add a few tulsi (holy basil) leaves while boiling the ginger, or a ¼ teaspoon of turmeric powder. My mom always adds a pinch of turmeric – she says it’s great for immunity.

Cold & Flu Season Boosters

A tiny pinch of cinnamon or a clove can add warmth and extra immune support.

Serving Suggestions

This tea is best enjoyed hot, straight away. I love to sip it slowly while curled up with a good book. It’s also lovely with a side of simple biscuits or a piece of fruit.

Storage Instructions

Honestly, this tea is best enjoyed fresh. It doesn’t really store well. If you absolutely must make it ahead, you can store it in the fridge for a few hours, but the flavor will diminish.

FAQs

Let’s answer some common questions!

Is Ginger Lemon Tea Good for Sore Throat?

Absolutely! The ginger and lemon both have soothing properties that can help relieve a sore throat. The honey adds an extra layer of comfort.

Can I Drink Ginger Lemon Tea Every Day?

Yes, you can! It’s a healthy and refreshing drink. Just listen to your body and don’t overdo it.

What are the benefits of drinking ginger lemon tea on an empty stomach?

Drinking it on an empty stomach can help with digestion and boost your metabolism. However, if you have a sensitive stomach, it’s best to have it after a light snack.

Can I use ginger powder instead of fresh ginger?

You can, but the flavor won’t be as vibrant. If using ginger powder, start with about ½ teaspoon and adjust to taste.

How can I make this tea sweeter without using honey?

You can use other natural sweeteners like maple syrup, agave nectar, or even a date syrup. Stevia is another option, but it has a distinct taste that some people don’t like.

There you have it! A simple, comforting, and incredibly effective Ginger Lemon Tea recipe. I hope you enjoy it as much as I do. Stay healthy and happy brewing!