Anyone who’s cracked open a cold ginger ale on a bumpy plane ride knows ginger's got a unique, soothing spiciness. But there's more to this tropical plant than a refreshing drink.
Ginger's been around for over 5,000 years, gracing our tables and medicine cabinets. This brown, knobby root was once a pricey treat in the Roman Empire and Medieval Europe. Why? Because it’s been said to tackle everything from tummy troubles to migraines, and even cancer. Intrigued, I decided to jump on the juice-at-home bandwagon and see what a daily ginger shot could do for me over a week.
DIY Ginger Shots
First off, you don’t need a fancy juicer. Peel the root, chuck it in a blender, and strain it. Easy. Pro tip: make these shots in batches—they last about three days in the fridge. I kept it simple with just ginger, but you can mix in turmeric or fruits like apple and lemon for a flavor boost.
My first stop was the produce section, where I scored a week’s worth of ginger for four bucks. Compare that to the five-dollar-a-pop shots at my local hipster coffee spot, and I was already feeling like a savvy shopper.
The Morning Routine
Day one, I knocked back my ginger shot after my usual breakfast. The kick was real—a fiery wake-up call that hit my nose and throat. It was intense, but hey, it definitely got me moving.
Big-Time Benefits?
Ginger’s known to help regulate appetite by making you feel full longer. Perfect for someone like me who sometimes forgets to eat when work gets hectic. From day one, I felt less "hangry" and more focused.
Midweek, I had a run-in with seasonal allergies. While the ginger shot didn’t cure them, the heat cleared my sinuses better than any over-the-counter meds. Allergies are inflammation, and ginger’s anti-inflammatory powers were doing their thing.
On running days, I skip a big breakfast and usually just have coffee and a banana. Adding a ginger shot took the jittery edge off my coffee and amped up my workout focus. Plus, ginger’s supposed to help with muscle soreness—a bonus for any runner. I’m curious to see if it can replace ibuprofen for those post-race aches.
The Verdict
Ginger shots might need long-term commitment for the full range of benefits, but after just a week, I’m sold. The taste and the kick are enjoyable, and the potential cancer-preventing properties are a big plus. At four bucks a week, it's a small price for such a powerhouse.
In any case, this spicy, face-warming drink is a way healthier morning jumpstart than scrolling through social media.