Ginger has long been prized for its culinary, aromatic and medicinal benefits. This winter make it part of your cold prevention arsenal. Ginger�s calming effect on the stomach during gastrointestinal distress is well known but the spice also has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that may help prevent or alleviate cold symptoms.

Ginger acts as an antihistamine and decongestant to ease cold symptoms. The spice contains nearly a dozen antiviral compounds, including several called sesquiterpenes, which help fight and treat colds, sore throats and inflammation of mucus membranes.

For sore throat, sniffles or flu, use dried root, tea, extract, tablets or capsules. The fresh root is tasty in teas, stir fries and smoothies.

Try making a strong cup of ginger tea to stimulate the immune system. The tea can encourage healthy sweating, which may be helpful during colds and flu. Researchers have found that sweat contains strong germ-fighting agents that may help fight off infections.

Ginger tea recipe

Here�s what you need:

Ginger root
Lemon
Honey

The ginger and honey will kick start your immune system while the lemon juice contains vitamin C.

Here�s what you do:

Shave the skin from a two-inch piece of fresh ginger.
Slice it up and drop the pieces into two cups of water
Simmer the mixture uncovered for about 20 minutes.
Strain out the ginger pieces.
Pour the tea into a mug.
Add one tablespoon of honey and juice from half a lemon.

Here is an apple, carrot, ginger smoothie to start your days with an extra boost.

Here�s what you need:

1 cup fresh carrot juice
1 green apple, peeled, cored, and chopped
2 teaspoons freshly grated ginger
1 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
1 tablespoon honey

Here�s what you do:

Freeze carrot juice in an ice cube tray.
Combine with remaining ingredients in a blender, and blend until smooth.

Or try this Green carrot-ginger smoothie instead.

2 medium carrots, chopped
1 medium apple, cored
2 large handfuls of baby spinach
1 tablespoon freshly grated ginger root
8 ounces of filtered water