Ginger Turmeric Honey Tea
Here we are in the middle of January. Where I’m at in Boulder, the sun is shining brightly today and I’m soaking up every last drop of vitamin D I can get before a big freeze coming this weekend. It’s been a season of fighting off illness after illness for our family, and I’ve been more diligent than ever in finding vocal care habits that will carry me through the winter season.
Enter: Ginger Turmeric Honey Tea. It’s soothing, anti-inflammatory and just makes me feel good and cozy. I like to make this in big batches and heat it up to sip on once a day or whenever I need it.
Why I love this concoction for the voice…
Ginger: Ginger acts as an expectorant, helping to loosen and expel mucus from the throat and respiratory system. Ginger contains gingerol, a natural anti-inflammatory compound that soothes irritation in the throat and vocal cords, reducing swelling or soreness.
Turmeric: Here’s what I use. Turmeric contains curcumin, a potent anti-inflammatory compound that helps soothe swollen or irritated vocal cords caused by overuse or conditions like laryngitis. Turmeric has strong antiviral properties, which can help combat throat infections, colds, and respiratory issues that might harm the voice.
High-Quality Honey: I love this raw Manuka honey from New Zealand. It has antibacterial, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory properties and can be wonderfully soothing on a cough or sore throat.
Lemon: Acidity from a squeeze of lemon can break down mucus build up in the throat and help you clear that gunk out, and it gives a boost of Vitamin C. Be careful and listen to your body with lemon, as it can also irritate a dry throat or cause acid reflux for some.
Here’s how to make it.
Grab a pot of water, scrub and slice some fresh ginger, and simmer it the water for 5-10 minutes.
Strain your ginger mixture into a big mason jar for future use, or if you’re making a small batch, right into your favorite mug.
Add a dropper full of liquid Turmeric to your mug, a squeeze of lemon, and a dollop of good honey.
You can also make this with ground turmeric if that’s what you have on hand. Add a teaspoon or two to the simmering water and then strain with the ginger.
I like these variations.
For a creamier version, make this tea with your favorite plant based milk. I don’t recommend a lot of dairy for singers, as it can inflame and create more mucus in your system. Be sure to very gently warm up and simmer with the ginger.
Add some other flavors: cinnamon sticks, black pepper (increases turmeric absorption), vanilla extract, or other warming spices to your liking. I like to add spices during the simmering process and then strain with the ginger.
Keep in mind…
While soothing teas and drinks can aid in recovery and vocal function, this liquid doesn’t actually pass through the vocal folds. Liquids pass through the pharynx, the part of the throat behind the nose and mouth, which air also moves through for breathing. So while liquids and drinks can soothe sore throat muscles and reduce inflammation in the delicate muscles that comprise the vocal instrument, it’s always number one and BEST practice to drink oodles of water and keep the voice intrinsically hydrated.
Happy Singing!
