What are the potential benefits of ginger as a remedy for cold symptoms, and how should it be consumed?

Reviewed by Yoshinori Abe, MD

Internal Medicine

Ginger may help relieve cold symptoms by supporting the immune system and reducing inflammation. Rich in antioxidants like gingerol, ginger can ease sore throats, calm coughs, and soothe congestion. It can be consumed as fresh ginger tea, in dried or powdered form, or added to warm broths and honey-based remedies for added relief.

While ginger is a helpful natural remedy, cold-like symptoms can sometimes signal something more than a common cold. If you're feeling unwell and unsure what's causing it, take a free, instant, online symptom check to better understand your symptoms and confidently navigate your next steps—no sign-up required.

Reviewed for medical accuracy: 07/14/2026

Important Next Steps

Learn if ginger could cause your symptoms Discover what’s causing your cold-like symptoms Find out if symptoms need medical care See OTC options for ginger-related symptoms Find a doctor for cold symptom care Understand safe home remedies for cold symptoms Check if ginger is behind these symptoms

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Explanation

Ginger has been used in traditional medicine for its potential health benefits, including its ability to help with cold symptoms. According to the provided references, ginger may boost the immune system and reduce inflammation, which can be helpful when you have a cold. If you're experiencing symptoms and want to understand what might be causing them, try Ubie's free AI symptom checker to get personalized insights.

How to Consume Ginger:

Ginger Tea: You can make ginger tea by slicing fresh ginger and boiling it in water. This warm drink may help soothe a sore throat and ease congestion.
Dried Ginger: Dried ginger extract has been studied for its ability to support the immune system. You can add dried ginger to food or take it as a supplement.

Remember, while ginger can be a helpful natural remedy, it is important to use it as part of a balanced diet and not rely on it as the sole treatment for cold symptoms.

(References)

Shahrajabian MH, & Sun W. (2024). Iranian Traditional Medicine (ITM) and Natural Remedies .... Reviews on recent clinical trials, 38047364.
Kim J, Lee H, & You S. (2022). Dried Ginger Extract Restores the T Helper Type 1/ .... Nutrients, 35565949.
Firdaus A, Yunus MH, Izhar SK, & Afaq U. (2025). Medicinal Plants in the Treatment of Respiratory Diseases .... Recent patents on biotechnology, 38275072.

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