Caribbean ginger tea is a staple in my home. So, go ahead and head off the cold and flu season with my Caribbean version of ginger tea.  My family has always valued self-care and we practice the philosophy that food is medicine.  While we value all that modern medicine has to offer, there is often a local tea or natural remedy that will also be used for whatever ails you.

Fresh ginger root (or simply ginger), lemons, and local honey are staples in Caribbean kitchens.  Ginger and lemons are often grown in backyards or readily available at local markets.  Honey is literally liquid gold in the Caribbean and the large variety of flowers and fruits provide unique flavors for the honey.

People in the Caribbean love hot tea, especially in the morning, which is a holdover from colonial times.  However, the “teas” that are favored come primarily from leaves, herbs, and spices.  And, learning to make tea is one of the first things that Caribbean children learn to do in the kitchen. So, you can understand why these are staples in the kitchen.

Benefits of Ginger

Ginger gets its unique flavor and smell from gingerol, the chemically active compound that contains numerous health benefits.  Ginger has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobic properties that will help to temporary relieve sinus congestion, nausea, and other symptoms of the cold and flu.

Benefits of Lemon

Lemon juice is an excellent source of vitamin C.  In addition to boosting the immune system, it and may reduce congestion, break up phlegm, and limit the duration of the cold.  In the Caribbean, limes are often more abundant than lemons.  Since limes have the same health benefits as lemons, they are often used in the same way.  

Benefits of Honey

Honey is a natural sweetener that pairs well with tea.  Honey naturally soothes the throat.  Additionally, honey from your local area is believed to reduce the symptoms of seasonal allergies.

Ingredients for Caribbean Ginger Lemon and Honey Elixir

2 cups boiling water

2 tablespoons grated or chopped ginger root

2 tablespoons lemon juice

2 tablespoons local honey  

1-inch cinnamon stick (optional)

2 tablespoons local rum (really, really, optional)

Makes 2 servings

Directions

Boil 2 cups of water in a small pan.  Remove the pan from heat and add ginger and cinnamon sticks to the hot water.  Cover for about 3 minutes.  Strain the liquid into a mug. Stir in lemon juice and honey.   

Add the optional rum if it’s the adult’s bedtime. Leave out the rum for children and for use during the day.

Now, It’s Your Turn

This ginger tea with lemon and honey can be enjoyed hot or cold.  I learned to make it from watching my mom in the kitchen.  There were no formal lessons, and I guess I did well since my mom enjoys my version of her tea.

What natural remedies do your family use during the cold and flu season?

I think you will also enjoy the post on using warm salt water gargles for a sore throat.

Enjoy!

Keep It Tight Sisters

Eat. Move. Breathe.