Ginger Lemon Honey Tea: A Warming Cup for Cool Days

As the weather cools, a steaming mug of ginger tea is one of the most searched comfort drinks for good reason: it is quick, cheap and genuinely soothing. Fresh ginger gives a peppery warmth, lemon adds brightness and honey rounds everything out. This is a drink for comfort, not a cure, but it is a lovely habit for cold evenings.

Tips for a better cup

• Add lemon and honey at the end. Very hot water dulls the fresh lemon flavor, and honey tastes best in warm, not boiling, liquid.
• Control the heat. More ginger or a longer simmer gives a sharper bite. Start light and adjust.
• Make a batch. Simmer a larger amount of ginger, strain and keep it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently and add lemon and honey per cup.
• Variations: a pinch of turmeric, a few mint leaves or a slice of orange all work well.

What it can and cannot do

Ginger is traditionally used to ease nausea and an unsettled stomach, and a hot drink with honey and lemon can feel comforting on a sore throat. These are comfort effects; the tea does not prevent or treat colds or any illness.

Who should be careful

• Never give honey to babies under 12 months.
• People taking blood thinners or diabetes medication, or with gallstones, should check with a doctor before drinking a lot of ginger.
• Ginger can aggravate heartburn in some people; pregnant women should keep to small amounts and ask their doctor.
• Honey and lemon add sugar and acidity, so those managing blood sugar or sensitive teeth may want less of both.