Does Ginger Help With a Sore Throat?

Ginger is a natural and popular home remedy for colds and sore throats. Its essential oils and pungent substances are said to help support the immune system and the body in fighting infections. Chewed or infused as tea, the root is soothing for the throat. Read here what exactly is in this home remedy – and how you can use ginger for a sore throat or a cold.

Sore throat: How ginger helps

In China, ginger has been considered an immune-boosting substance for more than 2000 years and has a permanent place in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM). However, studies have so far not clearly demonstrated an antiviral or antibacterial effect of the root plant. Nevertheless, many people find the circulation-enhancing essential oils and the pungent substance gingerol, which is contained in the ginger root, to be helpful for a sore throat. With these substances, ginger creates a feeling of warmth – and has a calming effect on the mucous membranes, especially in the upper throat. Scientists also assume that the substances contained in ginger help to transport inflammatory messengers away: This could ensure that cold symptoms subside more quickly. Ginger is also said to have an appetizing and digestive effect and is also recommended for nausea. In addition to the essential oils, gingerol, and vitamin C, ginger also contains valuable minerals – including iron, calcium, and potassium, which can make an important contribution to health.

Ginger recipes for sore throat and throat pain

Immune-boosting recipes with old home remedies can help you get through infections better. If you have a sore throat, try pure ginger in the form of our ginger shot, drink hot ginger with lemon and honey, or gargle with ginger water. In combination with plenty of fluids, bed rest, and a thick scarf, you will help your body fight the infection. If it’s not too spicy for you, you can also chew ginger to relieve a sore throat: Ginger can basically be eaten raw. However, if you have a sensitive stomach, you should be careful because of the sharpness.

Tip: Since the best part of ginger is just under the skin, it is best not to peel ginger if you are using it in a recipe. Instead, slice or grate it with the peel. Ideally, you should use organic ginger to make sure there are no contaminants in the skin.