Ginger drink preparation - recipe and effects of consumption during fasting
Lena Bauer
2026-03-25
2 min. read
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In grocery stores, in the fruit and vegetable section, one can locate the thick, light brown root - ginger (Rhizoma Zingiberis) from the medicinal ginger (Zingiber officinalis) native to Southeast Asia. It is predominantly utilized as a spice in Asian cuisine and is extensively cultivated in countries such as China, India, Jamaica, Brazil, and West Africa. [1]
Beverage with ginger root infusion
Medicinal ginger root can be ingested either as ready-made preparations or as a fresh or powdered additive in beverages and dishes. Recently, there has been a growing trend in flavored waters with various ingredients, including ginger root. However, it is important to note that the antibacterial and antifungal effects in this form are significantly less potent than in alcoholic solutions. A daily intake of up to 4 g of fresh ginger root (2 – 4 g) is advised.
Does drinking ginger water on an empty stomach offer real benefits?
Consuming ginger water on an empty stomach primarily aids digestive function. It facilitates the secretion of saliva and digestive juices, exhibiting choleretic and cholagogue effects. It alleviates sensations of stomach heaviness, bloating, and fullness while reducing symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain. It stimulates digestive juice production, a benefit confirmed by individuals with diminished appetite. However, due to ginger's pungency, it is not recommended for those with gastric or duodenal ulcers. If digestive discomfort worsens after consumption, it should be avoided on an empty stomach.
How to make a ginger drink - step-by-step guide
To prepare a ginger drink, you will need 250 ml of water, up to 4 g of fresh ginger, and optional additives such as honey, lemon, mint, or cinnamon. Proper preparation of the ginger root is essential to maximize the extraction of its active compounds. The skin should be peeled, and the ginger should be sliced into thin pieces or grated finely. Then, it should be infused with hot water and allowed to steep for approximately 10 minutes. The beverage should be consumed at room temperature or cooler. Additional ingredients like lemon or honey should not be added to warm water, as high temperatures can degrade their beneficial properties. Ginger not only enhances the flavor of dishes but also has a positive impact on overall health.