As a child, I was force-fed ginger turmeric shots whenever I got sick.
But as an adult, I learned to appreciate their spicy, zesty flavor and the quick boost to my health.
And most importantly, I make them a lot better than my aunties used to.
Ginger and turmeric are two superfoods hailed for their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties — and are every health enthusiast’s dream combo.
In this post, I’ll share my easy ginger turmeric shot recipe and a better variation with lemon! But first, let’s dive into the numerous benefits this shot can give you.
Health Benefits of Ginger Turmeric Shots
This tiny yet powerful drink is packed with nutrients and is used in Ayurveda to treat many ailments.
Here are the top benefits of ginger turmeric shots:
It Reduces Inflammation
When most people think of inflammation, they usually associate it with the swelling that occurs after getting a cut.
However, inflammation also occurs internally in the body.
But luckily, ginger and turmeric save the day with their anti-inflammatory effects.
Ginger contains active compounds like gingerols and shogaols that reduce the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines in the body.
Even better, turmeric has a compound called curcumin, which also has anti-inflammatory properties!
I can attest to this, as turmeric is generously used in the Indian community to treat almost any illness. It’s still my family’s go-to for colds, digestive problems, and even skin cuts.
It Boosts Your Immune System
Antioxidants fight against harmful molecules in our body called free radicals. These can harm our cells and cause long-term health problems.
But ginger and turmeric are both extremely rich in antioxidants.
Adding ginger turmeric shots to your daily routine will keep your immune system strong and ready to fight anything.
It Relieves Pain and Soreness
Both ginger and turmeric have pain-relieving properties.
Ginger can reduce muscle soreness, while turmeric has been used for eons in traditional medicine to treat pain (I’m a living testament to this.)
It Improves Digestion
There’s a reason why pregnant women sip ginger ale with reverence.
And when my mom went through chemotherapy, I distinctly remember her making her own ginger chews (she would cut the ginger up into tiny pieces and keep one in her mouth to fight nausea.)
So, I’m not exaggerating when I say ginger is the best natural solution for digestive issues.
Furthermore, turmeric also improves digestion by stimulating the production of digestive juices and enzymes.
Try drinking a ginger turmeric shot before a meal to reduce tummy discomfort.
It Lowers Blood Sugar Levels
Several studies prove that ginger and turmeric lower blood sugar levels.
This makes it great for those with diabetes or at risk of getting it.
Ginger has shown a positive effect on insulin sensitivity, which is important for regulating blood sugar levels.
Similarly, curcumin, which is in turmeric, also improves insulin sensitivity.
Note: I’m not a doctor, so if you have diabetes, please talk to your doctor before making this shot a part of your diet.
Ginger Turmeric Shot Recipe
This ginger turmeric shot recipe is a quick and easy way to give your body some much-needed love.
Ingredients
- 1-2 inches of fresh ginger root
- 1-2 inches of fresh turmeric/1 teaspoon of turmeric powder
- 2 tablespoons of lemon juice
- 1/4 cup of water
Steps to Prepare
- Wash and peel the ginger and turmeric roots.
- Cut the ginger and turmeric into small pieces. If you’re using turmeric powder, just cut the ginger and skip to the next step.
- Add the ginger, turmeric, and lemon juice to your blender.
- Add a 1/4 cup of water to the blender too.
- Blend the ingredients until smooth.
- Strain out any pulp.
- Serve the ginger turmeric shot immediately.
Tips to Enhance the Taste
Ginger and turmeric are known for their pungent flavors. So, there are a few things you can do to make your ginger turmeric shot go down better.
- Use fresh turmeric rather than powder for a more potent taste and added benefits.
- Add some honey or maple syrup to sweeten the shot.
- Mix the shot with some apple or orange juice to balance out the flavors.
- Add a little cinnamon or nutmeg for a spicy flavor.
Lemon Ginger Turmeric Shot Recipe
To take the classic ginger turmeric shot one notch higher, try this lemon ginger turmeric shot! It has lemon, black pepper, and honey — all of which are great for your health!
Ingredients
- 1 lemon
- 1-inch piece of fresh ginger
- 1-inch piece of fresh turmeric/1 teaspoon of turmeric powder
- A pinch of black pepper
- 1 tablespoon of honey
Steps to Prepare
- Wash the lemon, ginger, and turmeric.
- Cut the lemon into quarters and remove any seeds.
- Peel the ginger and turmeric and cut them into small pieces.
- Add the lemon, ginger, and turmeric to your blender.
- Blend on high speed until smooth.
- Strain the mixture.
- Add a pinch of black pepper and stir well.
- Add honey for taste.
Tips to Enhance the Taste
- Add more honey for sweetness.
- Use less ginger and turmeric for a milder taste.
- Add more lemon juice for a tangier taste.
- Use coconut water instead of water for a sweeter shot.
Lemon Ginger Turmeric Shot Benefits
- As mentioned, ginger and turmeric are anti-inflammatories.
- Lemon is high in vitamin C — which boosts the immune system and improves skin health.
- Black pepper can enhance the absorption of turmeric in the body.
How to Store Your Ginger Turmeric Shots
It’s quite normal to want to make a bunch of shots and then keep them for later. I’m frugal with my time too…
It’s always best to have your ginger turmeric shots while they’re still fresh — but you can keep them (at most) for 2-3 days.
Here are some storage tips for your shots:
- In the fridge: You can store fresh ginger turmeric shots in the fridge for up to 3 days. Keep them in an airtight container or bottle to prevent oxidation.
- In the freezer: To keep your ginger turmeric shots longer than 3 days, freeze them in ice cube trays. Just freeze until solid, then move the cubes to a freezer-safe container. These frozen ginger turmeric shots can last for up to 6 months.
Ginger Turmeric Shot FAQs
Are Ginger and Turmeric Shots Good for Weight Loss?
Ginger has been shown to affect metabolism positively, and it’s been found to reduce feelings of hunger, which prevents overeating.
In addition, turmeric also has weight loss benefits. Studies show that curcumin (the active compound in turmeric) can lower body weight.
When combined, ginger and turmeric create a potent blend of spices that can be beneficial for you. However, taking ginger turmeric shots alone won’t lead to weight loss. You’ll have to combine a healthy diet with regular exercise too.
Is It OK to Take Ginger and Turmeric Shots Every Day?
It’s safe to take ginger and turmeric shots every day, as both spices are packed with antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds.
These compounds provide a number of benefits, including reducing inflammation, boosting immunity, and improving digestion.
However, even the best ingredients can harm us if consumed excessively, so make sure you drink these shots in moderation.
For example, consuming too much ginger can cause gastrointestinal issues such as heartburn, diarrhea, and an upset stomach. Plus, the excessive intake of turmeric can lead to nausea and dizziness.
It’s best to start with a shot every few days before gradually increasing the frequency to daily consumption. And even if you are taking a shot every day, keep it to one. I don’t recommend having more than one shot daily.
What Is the Best Time to Take a Ginger Turmeric Shot?
The best time to take a ginger turmeric shot is on an empty stomach in the morning. This will help with digestion and boost your metabolism for the day.
However, you can also take them at other times of the day:
Before a meal: Taking a ginger turmeric shot before a meal can stimulate digestion and reduce bloating and discomfort.
After a workout: Ginger and turmeric are powerful anti-inflammatories, making them ideal for post-workout recovery.
When feeling under the weather: Ginger and turmeric have immune-boosting properties, making them great for when you’re feeling run down. Be proactive and take a ginger turmeric shot at the first sign of a cold or flu to reduce symptoms.
Remember, everyone’s body is different. Some people might prefer taking a ginger turmeric shot before bed to feel relaxed, while others may prefer to take it during the day for an energy boost. Do what works best for you.
Are Ginger Turmeric Shots Good for the Skin?
Ginger turmeric shots are good for the skin, as they have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. These help reduce inflammation and protect the skin from damage caused by free radicals.
Here’s how ginger turmeric shots promote healthy, glowing skin:
- Anti-inflammatory properties: Inflammation is a common cause of skin issues such as acne, eczema, and psoriasis. By reducing inflammation, ginger turmeric shots will help you get clearer, healthier skin.
- Antioxidant benefits: Both these spices are rich in antioxidants that protect the skin from free radical damage caused by environmental stressors such as pollution and UV radiation. These antioxidants will slow aging and promote a more radiant complexion.
- Lightening and brightening properties: Turmeric is known to have skin-lightening properties that can reduce dark spots and hyperpigmentation.
Note: While these skin benefits are great, ginger turmeric shots aren’t a substitute for a skincare routine. Cleanse your skin, moisturize, and wear your SPF, and have these shots to keep you healthy from the inside.
Final Thoughts
These ginger turmeric shots are easy to make and can be consumed daily for the best results.
If you give my ginger turmeric shot recipe a try, let me know in the comments!
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