So, you’ve been meaning to make up a batch of fire cider, but laundry happened. And dishes. And that thing you committed to when it seemed like a good idea but wasn’t. Now someone in the house is feeling achy and awful, and even if you started today the fire cider wouldn’t be ready for weeks.
Maybe that person is you, and there isn’t another herbalist in the house to whip up remedies for you. No worries! This soothing lemon ginger tea recipe can be made quickly with ingredients you can find locally. (No special order ingredients needed!)
Lemon Ginger Tea Ingredients (What you’ll need)
The beauty of this recipe is that it can be adapted to whatever you have on hand (or can pick up nearby). In addition to the three essentials – lemon, ginger, and honey – you can choose 1-5 of the ingredients below for your brew. Here’s an overview of the benefits of each:
Fresh Ginger
Historically ginger was very expensive – one pound cost as much as a whole sheep in the Middle Ages. (source) Fortunately, these days it’s widely cultivated so that we can all benefit from it’s immune supporting, healing properties.
According to Penn State Medical Center, it has also history of use in helping to “treat the common cold, flu-like symptoms, headaches, and painful menstrual periods.” (source)
Lemon
Lemons are rich in vitamin C, which supports immune function.
Honey
Honey is used as the medium in this recipe, but it also has soothing properties. As I mentioned in my homemade cough syrup post, a study published in the medical journal Archives of Pediatrics & Adolescent Medicine concluded that buckwheat honey helped kids (and their parents) get more sleep by easing symptoms.
Garlic Clove (optional)
This warming herb is legendary for its ability to support immune function and assist the body as it clears congestion.
Cayenne (optional)
Cayenne contains capsaicin, which is a warming and circulation enhancing pain reliever. It reduces the amount of Substance P – a chemical pain transmitter in the body – making it helpful for sore throats. (source 1, source 2)
Cinnamon Sticks or Powder (optional)
Cinnamon has long been used in traditional medicine to help with cold and flu recovery. According to Fundamentals of Microbiology, there is evidence to support its use as an antimicrobial herb.
Star Anise (optional)
This licorice-flavored spice contains shikimic acid, which is a potent antioxidant. Although it’s much different after manufacturing (and may have side effects not associated with the natural form), shikimic acid is used in the production of Tamiflu.
Herbal Tea (optional)
I brew a cup of herbal tea (either one tea bag or 2 teaspoons loose tea) to use as a base for the brew. I like to use herbs that are immune supportive and/or relaxing to the nervous system: chamomile, peppermint, yarrow, rosehip, elderberry, hibiscus, echinacea or catnip are all good options, but you can use just about anything you have on hand. Caffeine-free is best so your body stays in rest and recover mode. Water works, too!
How To Make Cold & Flu Brew (Lemon Ginger Tea With A Twist)
To make this tea, choose four or more of the ingredients below and then follow the brewing instructions.
Lemon Ginger Tea Recipe (Cold & Flu Brew)
Ingredients
- 1½ cups water
- ¼-½ inch fresh ginger (sliced)
- ½ lemon (juiced)
- raw honey (to taste)
- cayenne pepper (to taste, optional)
- 1 clove garlic (halved, optional)
- 2 cinnamon sticks (optional)
- 2 star anise (optional)
- 1 bag herbal tea (or 2 tsp loose tea, optional)
Instructions
- In a small pot, combine the water and ginger, along with the garlic, cinnamon sticks, and/or star anise, if using.
- Bring to a boil then reduce heat and simmer, covered, for 15 minutes.
- Remove from heat and strain.
- If you’re infusing your brew with herbal tea, add it to the water now and allow to steep (covered) for 3-5 minutes.
- Strain out the tea and add the lemon juice.
- Sweeten to taste with honey and stir in cayenne, if using, before serving.
- Keep sipping on a steady supply of cold and flu brew while watching funny movies until you feel better.
Notes
Nutrition
Other Soothing Remedies To Try
- Bone broth or homemade chicken soup
- In terms of pre-made options, I really like this honey cough syrup that’s been infused with antioxidant-rich echinacea, elderberry and acerola cherry extract. It’s delicious, soothing, and can often be found locally using this store locator. (I”m a brand partner, just FYI)
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This article was medically reviewed by Dr. Scott Soerries, MD, Family Physician and Medical Director of SteadyMD. As always, this is not personal medical advice and we recommend that you talk with your doctor.
What’s your favorite cold and flu remedy? Please share it in the comments!
Is it necessary to peel the ginger first before dropping in the water? Thanks!
No need to peel.
Hi, its a very good recipe thank you for sharing. could you post a recipe on the use of turmeric.
Amazing recipe 🙂 thanks for sharing the blog
I used this last year.
It’s how I found your website.
Delicious.
Delicious recipe, I wonder if this would help kick the too-much-coffee habit.
love these newsletters