Ginger and Clove Water

Ginger and Clove Water is a potent herbal infusion known for its warming properties. By simmering fresh ginger root with whole dried cloves, you create a beverage that acts as a natural digestive aid and an immune-system kickstarter. The ginger provides a sharp, peppery heat, while the cloves add a deep, woody sweetness.

Recipe Details

Prep time: 5 minutes
Cook time: 10 minutes
Total time: 15 minutes
Servings: 2 cups

Ingredients

Fresh Ginger: 2-inch piece (sliced or bruised)
Whole Cloves: 4–6 pieces
Water: 2.5 cups (some will evaporate during boiling)
Optional: Honey or lemon slice for serving

Instructions

Prepare the Ginger: Wash the ginger thoroughly. You don’t need to peel it, but slice it thinly or crush it with the side of a knife to release the juices.
Combine: Place the water, ginger slices, and whole cloves into a small saucepan.
Boil & Simmer: Bring the mixture to a rolling boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 8–10 minutes. The water should turn a light golden-amber hue.
Strain: Turn off the heat. Strain the liquid into a mug, discarding the ginger and cloves.
Finish: Stir in honey or a squeeze of lemon if you prefer a smoother, brighter taste.

Essential Tips

Don’t Over-boil: Boiling cloves for too long can make the water taste slightly medicinal or bitter. 10 minutes is the “sweet spot.”
Bruise the Spices: Crushing the ginger and slightly cracking the cloves before adding them to the water allows the essential oils to infuse more deeply.
Freshness Matters: Use whole cloves rather than ground clove powder to keep the tea clear and the flavor clean.

Nutritional Info (Per Serving – Plain)

Item	Amount
Calories	5 kcal
Carbohydrates	1g
Sugar	0g
Vitamin C	2% DV
Manganese	10% DV

Health Benefits

Digestive Support: Ginger is famous for reducing nausea and stimulating digestive enzymes.
Anti-Inflammatory: Both ingredients contain compounds (gingerol and eugenol) that help reduce inflammation in the body.
Oral Health: Cloves have natural antibacterial properties that can help freshen breath and soothe minor gum irritation.
Immune Boost: The high antioxidant content helps the body fight off oxidative stress.

Q&A

Q: Can I drink this every day?

A: Yes, for most people, one cup a day is perfectly safe. However, since both ginger and cloves can have blood-thinning effects in very high doses, consult a doctor if you are on medication.

Q: Can I drink this cold?

A: Absolutely. You can brew a large batch, let it cool, and keep it in the fridge for a refreshing, spicy iced water.

Q: Does it help with weight loss?

A: While not a “miracle drink,” ginger is known to have a slight thermogenic effect (increasing body heat) and can help suppress appetite when consumed between meals.