Medicinal Plant Research 2024, Vol.14, No.3, 171-179 http://hortherbpublisher.com/index.php/mpr 173 contractions, which can help alleviate symptoms of indigestion (Giacosa et al., 2015). These effects are particularly useful in managing dyspepsia and other gastrointestinal discomforts. Moreover, ginger's anti-inflammatory properties contribute to its ability to soothe the digestive tract and reduce gastrointestinal irritation (Crichton et al., 2019). The consumption of ginger tea has been linked to improved digestive efficiency and reduced symptoms of bloating and gas, making it a valuable natural remedy for maintaining gut health. 3.3 Studies on ginger tea and gastrointestinal disorders Several studies have explored the impact of ginger tea on various gastrointestinal disorders. Research indicates that ginger possesses gastrointestinal-protective properties, which can be beneficial in conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and functional dyspepsia. Clinical trials have shown that ginger can be effective in reducing the symptoms of nausea and vomiting associated with these disorders (Ding et al., 2013; Chang and Peng, 2018). For example, a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials found that ginger was significantly more effective than placebo in reducing the frequency of vomiting and the intensity of nausea in patients with gastrointestinal disorders. Additionally, ginger's anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties may help mitigate the underlying inflammation and oxidative stress associated with these conditions, further supporting its therapeutic potential (Li et al., 2023). 4 Traditional Uses of Ginger Tea 4.1 Historical perspectives on ginger tea in traditional medicine Ginger tea has a rich history in traditional medicine, particularly within Chinese and Indian cultures, where it has been utilized for over 25 centuries. In traditional Chinese medicine, ginger is valued for its ability to improve the flow of body fluids and stimulate blood circulation, which is believed to enhance overall vitality and health. Similarly, in Ayurvedic medicine, ginger tea is used to treat a variety of ailments, including gastrointestinal disorders, pain, and inflammation (Ali et al., 2008; Dey and Mukherjee, 2021). The historical use of ginger tea in these ancient medical systems underscores its longstanding reputation as a versatile and effective remedy. 4.2 Ethnobotanical uses across different cultures Across various cultures, ginger tea has been employed for its medicinal properties. In Chinese, Ayurvedic, and Unani medicine, ginger is a common remedy for conditions such as arthritis, rheumatism, and gastrointestinal issues like nausea and vomiting (Haniadka et al., 2013; Srinivasan, 2017). In traditional Asian medicine, ginger tea is also used to alleviate symptoms of colds, sore throats, and digestive discomfort (Shahrajabian et al., 2019). The widespread use of ginger tea in these diverse cultural contexts highlights its ethnobotanical significance and the universal recognition of its health benefits. 4.3 Traditional preparation methods and their significance The preparation of ginger tea varies across cultures, but traditional methods often involve boiling fresh or dried ginger root in water. This process helps to extract the bioactive compounds, such as gingerol and shogaol, which are responsible for its therapeutic effects (Srinivasan et al., 2017; Zhang et al., 2020). In some cultures, additional ingredients like honey, lemon, or other herbs are added to enhance the flavor and medicinal properties of the tea (Shukla and Singh, 2007). The significance of these traditional preparation methods lies in their ability to maximize the health benefits of ginger, making it a potent remedy for a wide range of ailments. The simplicity and effectiveness of these methods have allowed ginger tea to remain a popular home remedy throughout history. 5 Bioactive Compounds in Ginger Tea 5.1 Major active ingredients contributing to health benefits Ginger tea, derived from the rhizome of Zingiber officinale, is rich in bioactive compounds that contribute to its numerous health benefits. The primary active ingredients include gingerols, shogaols, Zingerone, and paradols. Gingerols, particularly 6-gingerol, are the most abundant and are known for their potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Shogaols, which are formed from gingerols during drying or heating, exhibit even stronger anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer activities (Mao et al., 2019; Unuofin et al., 2021; Velayati et al., 2023). Zingerone, another significant compound, is noted for its anti-inflammatory and anti-diabetic effects. Paradols,
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