Recently, health enthusiasts have tapped into the potent powers of ginger and turmeric, two powerhouse roots celebrated for their remarkable health benefits.
These vibrant ingredients have made their way into wellness shots that promise to boost immunity, reduce inflammation, and enhance overall vitality. If you want to elevate your health routine, whipping up homemade ginger-turmeric shots is a smart choice. This approach allows you to stretch your dollars and maximize the benefits of these superfood ingredients—unlike some juices that can be watered down. Not only do they provide a concentrated dose of nutrients, but you can also customize them to your taste.
Here’s why they’re worth incorporating into your diet, plus tips for ensuring optimal nutrient absorption and keeping your kitchen clean from pesky turmeric stains.
The Benefits of Ginger and Turmeric
Ginger: The Digestive Dynamo
Ginger is celebrated for its ability to aid digestion and soothe the stomach. It has anti-inflammatory properties and may alleviate nausea, making it an excellent choice for those dealing with digestive issues or seeking relief from motion sickness. Additionally, ginger supports the immune system, making it a fantastic ally during cold and flu season.
Turmeric: The Golden Spice
Turmeric, with its active compound curcumin, is known for its powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. Curcumin may help combat chronic inflammation, which is linked to various diseases, including heart disease and cancer. Moreover, turmeric is believed to improve brain function, potentially reducing the risk of neurodegenerative conditions.
Combined Power
When combined, ginger and turmeric create a wellness powerhouse. Together, they can boost the immune system, improve digestion, and reduce inflammation. Adding a few simple ingredients like lemon and honey can enhance the flavour and provide additional health benefits, such as vitamin C and antibacterial properties.
How to Make Your Own Ginger Turmeric Shots
(Makes approximately 12 2-oz shots)
Ingredients:
- 1 cup fresh ginger, peeled and chopped
- 1 cup fresh turmeric, peeled and chopped (or 2 tablespoons ground turmeric)
- Juice of 6-8 lemons (or 4 whole lemons, ends removed)
- 3-4 tablespoons honey (to taste)
- 2.5 cups water
- Optional: a pinch or two of black pepper (to enhance curcumin absorption)
Instructions:
- Prepare the roots: Peel and chop the fresh ginger and turmeric. If using ground turmeric, you can skip this step.
- Blend the mixture: In a high-powered blender, combine the ginger, turmeric, lemon juice or sliced whole lemons, honey, and water. Blend until the mixture is smooth.
- Strain: Pour the blended mixture through a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth into a large bowl or pitcher, pressing down to extract as much liquid as possible. (Avoid touching it directly with your hands).
- Store properly: Transfer the liquid into airtight bottles or jars and refrigerate. Consume within one week for the best flavour and nutrient retention.
- Shake before serving: As natural ingredients settle, be sure to shake the bottle before pouring a shot.
Tips for Maximizing Benefits
- Enhance nutrient absorption: Incorporating a pinch of black pepper into your shots can significantly boost the bioavailability of curcumin. Piperine, the active compound in black pepper, enhances the absorption of curcumin by up to 2000%, allowing your body to reap the full benefits of turmeric.
- Timing: For optimal benefits, consider consuming your ginger turmeric shots in the morning on an empty stomach. This allows for better absorption of nutrients and sets a healthy tone for the day.
- Listen to your body: Start with a small dose, especially if you're new to ingesting ginger or turmeric. This helps your body adjust to the potent flavours and effects, preventing any digestive discomfort.
- Adjust to your liking: The ingredient quantities are totally customizable, so adjust them to your liking until you find the perfect formula for your tastes. This will be especially true for the amount of turmeric and ginger you like.
Preventing & Tackling Turmeric Stains
Turmeric is notorious for its bright yellow stain, which can cling to surfaces and fabrics. To prevent staining:
- Lay a protective layer down where you’re preparing your shots, whether with a dishcloth, a large cutting board or something that can protect your counter.
- Wear gloves: When handling fresh turmeric or powders, wear gloves to protect your hands.
- Immediate cleaning: Rinse any spills with cold water immediately, as hot water can set the stain.
- Use baking soda: For stubborn stains, create a paste with baking soda and water, apply it to the stained area, let it sit for a few minutes, and then scrub gently.
- Rinse your mouth: Consider rinsing your mouth or brushing your teeth immediately after eating to prevent staining your teeth.
About the Author
Alicia is a journalist and editor in digital and print media specializing in health, nutrition, fitness, and wellness. She was previously the Editorial Director of Clean Eating and Vegetarian Times. Her work has also appeared in Hone Health The Edge, Yoga Journal, Women’s Running, and Oxygen, among others. In addition to being a content creator, she's an ISSA-certified nutritionist, certified personal trainer, and fitness studio owner in Toronto. Alicia loves spreading the word about helpful, science-backed health information, and she can be contacted via her website at aliciamtyler.com.
