Licorice Ginger Tea — Soothing TCM Blend

Q: Can I drink licorice and ginger tea every day?

Moderate consumption of licorice and ginger tea — one to two cups per day — is generally considered safe for most people. However, licorice root contains glycyrrhizin, which can raise blood pressure or lower potassium levels when consumed in large amounts over extended periods. If you have high blood pressure, heart disease, or kidney concerns, it is best to enjoy this tea occasionally rather than daily, or choose a deglycyrrhizinated (DGL) licorice. Ginger is very safe for daily use, so you can always enjoy ginger tea on its own.

Q: Is this tea safe during pregnancy?

Pregnant individuals should exercise caution with this tea. While ginger is widely considered safe in moderate, food-based amounts and is often recommended for pregnancy-related nausea, licorice root is best avoided during pregnancy. Some TCM practitioners advise against licorice during pregnancy due to its potential effects on fluid balance and hormone regulation. If you are pregnant, consider drinking ginger tea alone (with a slice of lemon or a touch of honey) and consult your healthcare provider before consuming any herbal teas.

Q: Can I use fresh licorice root instead of dried?

Fresh licorice root can be used, though dried licorice root is more commonly available and slightly more concentrated in flavor. If using fresh root, simply wash it thoroughly, slice it into thin coins, and use about double the amount you would of dried root (roughly a 1-inch piece per cup). Simmer as you would dried root. The fresh version yields a slightly milder, earthier taste. Many TCM practitioners prefer dried licorice root (known as Gan Cao) because it is prepared according to traditional methods that harmonize its properties.

Q: Does licorice and ginger tea help with bloating?

Yes, this tea is traditionally used in TCM and herbal folk medicine to help relieve bloating and digestive discomfort. Ginger is a well-known carminative, meaning it helps expel gas from the digestive tract and relax the intestinal muscles. Licorice root is believed to soothe the lining of the stomach and intestines, reducing inflammation and irritation. Together, they create a gentle, warming tea that may support the body's natural digestive processes and help ease the sensation of bloating after meals.

Q: When is the best time to drink this tea?

The best time to drink licorice and ginger tea is 20 to 30 minutes after a meal, particularly lunch or dinner, when it can support digestion and calm the stomach. It is also excellent first thing in the morning if you wake with a queasy or unsettled stomach. In TCM, ginger's warming energy is considered especially beneficial during the cooler months or for individuals with a 'cold' digestive constitution — those who tend toward cold hands and feet, slow digestion, and a preference for warm foods. Avoid drinking it late at night if you find ginger slightly stimulating, though many people find it pleasantly soothing before bed.

Introduction: A Time-Honored Tonic for Digestive Ease

Few herbal combinations are as beloved in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) as the pairing of licorice root and ginger. Known in Chinese as Gan Cao (licorice) and Sheng Jiang (fresh ginger), these two ingredients have been used for thousands of years to support healthy digestion, calm an upset stomach, and bring warmth to the body's core. Licorice and ginger tea is the kind of remedy that grandmas across cultures have recommended — and modern science is beginning to understand why.

This gentle, naturally sweet, and mildly spicy tea is one of the easiest herbal preparations you can make at home. Whether you're dealing with occasional nausea, bloating after a heavy meal, or simply want a soothing caffeine-free beverage to wind down with, licorice and ginger tea is a wonderful addition to your wellness routine.

In this article, we'll explore the TCM wisdom behind each ingredient, walk through a step-by-step recipe, discuss variations and safety considerations, and help you decide whether this tea is right for you.

The TCM Perspective: Why Licorice and Ginger Work Together

In TCM theory, every ingredient has a specific energy, or qi, characterized by its temperature (hot, warm, neutral, cool, or cold), taste (sour, bitter, sweet, pungent, or salty), and the organ systems it influences. When combined thoughtfully, herbs can balance each other and create a synergistic effect greater than the sum of their parts.

Licorice Root (Gan Cao) — The Great Harmonizer

Licorice root is one of the most commonly used herbs in the entire TCM pharmacopeia. Its Chinese name, Gan Cao, literally means "sweet herb," and that sweetness is central to its therapeutic character.

Nature: Neutral to slightly warm
Taste: Sweet
Meridian pathways: Spleen, Stomach, Heart, and Lung channels
Core actions: Tonifies the Spleen qi, moistens the Lungs, moderates the harshness of other herbs, and relieves spasms and pain in the abdomen

In TCM, the Spleen is considered the central organ of digestion — it's responsible for transforming food into energy (qi) and blood. Licorice's sweet, nourishing quality is believed to gently support the Spleen and Stomach, making it an ideal base herb for digestive teas. Its harmonizing property also means it helps "mediate" the stronger energies of other ingredients, which is why it is so often paired with ginger — it tempers ginger's pungent heat while amplifying its stomach-settling benefits.

Fresh Ginger (Sheng Jiang) — The Warming Stomach Settler

Fresh ginger is one of the most accessible and widely loved medicinal foods in the world. In TCM, it is classified as a warming herb that acts primarily on the Spleen, Stomach, and Lung channels.

Nature: Warm
Taste: Pungent (acrid)
Meridian pathways: Spleen, Stomach, and Lung channels
Core actions: Disperses cold, warms the Middle Jiao (the digestive center of the body), stops nausea, and promotes the descending of rebellious Stomach qi

In TCM, nausea and vomiting are often seen as a "rebellion" of Stomach qi — the energy of the stomach moving upward instead of downward. Ginger's pungent, dispersing nature is believed to help redirect that energy downward, which is why it is so effective for nausea of all kinds. Its warming quality also makes it ideal for individuals who tend toward cold hands and feet, sluggish digestion, or a sensation of coldness in the belly.

Why They Work as a Pair

Licorice provides a sweet, neutral-to-warm foundation that supports the Spleen and harmonizes the formula, while ginger contributes warmth and pungent energy that directly addresses nausea, coldness, and stagnation. Together, they create a tea that is simultaneously gentle and effective — comforting enough for daily enjoyment yet potent enough to make a real difference when your stomach feels off.

This complementary relationship is a classic example of TCM formulation: the "emperor" herb (ginger, the primary therapeutic agent) is supported by a "minister" herb (licorice, which enhances and moderates the emperor's action).

Practical Recipe: How to Make Licorice and Ginger Tea

This recipe yields one generous cup (about 12 ounces). You can easily scale it up to make a larger batch and store it in the refrigerator.

Ingredients

3 to 4 slices of fresh ginger (about the size of a quarter, unpeeled but thoroughly washed) — approximately 1-inch piece
1 small piece of dried licorice root (about 1 to 2 inches long, or roughly 3 to 4 grams) — look for organic whole licorice root sticks or sliced root
2 cups of filtered water
Optional: 1 teaspoon of raw honey or a small slice of dried jujube (Chinese red date) for extra sweetness

Step-by-Step Brewing Instructions

Prepare the ingredients. Gently scrub the fresh ginger (you do not need to peel it — the skin is rich in beneficial compounds) and slice it into thin coins, about 1/8-inch thick. If your licorice root is in stick form, break or cut it into smaller pieces to expose more surface area.
Combine in a small saucepan. Place the ginger slices and licorice pieces into a small pot or saucepan. Add the filtered water.
Simmer, do not boil aggressively. Bring the water to a gentle boil, then immediately reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it simmer gently for 12 to 15 minutes. A slow, gentle simmer allows the beneficial compounds to extract fully without becoming overly bitter.
Remove from heat and steep. Turn off the heat and let the tea steep, still covered, for an additional 5 minutes. This step is optional but deepens the flavor and extraction.
Strain and serve. Pour the tea through a fine-mesh strainer into your favorite mug. Discard or compost the solids.
Sweeten if desired. Once the tea has cooled slightly, stir in a teaspoon of raw honey if you'd like extra sweetness. Note: avoid adding honey while the tea is still piping hot, as high heat can destroy some of honey's beneficial enzymes.

Total time: Approximately 20 minutes. Yield: 1 to 2 cups depending on evaporation.

Delicious Variations to Explore

Once you've mastered the basic recipe, feel free to experiment with these variations:

Cold-Brew Licorice and Ginger Tea

Place the ginger slices and licorice root pieces in a glass jar, cover with cold filtered water, and refrigerate for 8 to 12 hours (overnight works perfectly). Strain and serve cold. The result is a milder, less pungent tea with a surprisingly smooth sweetness. This is an excellent option for warmer months or for those who find hot ginger tea too stimulating.

Iced Licorice and Ginger Tea

Prepare the tea using the standard hot method but use only 1 cup of water for a more concentrated brew. Strain, then pour over a tall glass filled with ice. Add a squeeze of lemon and a sprig of fresh mint for a refreshing summer digestive beverage.

With Jujube (Chinese Red Date)

Add 2 to 3 dried jujubes (pitted and sliced) to the pot alongside the ginger and licorice. Jujube — known as Da Zao in TCM — is another sweet, qi-tonifying herb that complements both ingredients beautifully. It adds a subtle fruity sweetness and is believed to nourish the blood and calm the spirit. This version is especially popular in autumn and winter.

With a Cinnamon Stick

Add a small cinnamon stick (about 2 inches) to the simmering pot. Cinnamon adds warmth and a gentle sweetness while further supporting healthy digestion. In TCM, cinnamon (Rou Gui) is considered strongly warming and is traditionally used to support Kidney yang and dispel cold from the abdomen.

When to Drink Licorice and Ginger Tea

The timing of your tea can enhance its benefits. Here are some of the best moments to enjoy a cup:

After meals — 20 to 30 minutes after lunch or dinner, to support digestion and relieve feelings of fullness or bloating.
First thing in the morning — if you wake with a queasy or unsettled stomach, this tea can ease you into your day.
During cold or damp weather — ginger's warming energy is especially welcome when you feel chilled or sluggish.
When traveling — ginger is well-known for helping with motion sickness, and a thermos of this tea can be a comforting companion on long car rides, flights, or train journeys.

In TCM, the Spleen and Stomach are considered most active during the morning and early afternoon hours (approximately 7:00 AM to 1:00 PM). Drinking warming teas during this window may support the body's natural digestive rhythm. However, any time you feel the need for digestive comfort is a good time for this tea — trust your body.

Who Should Avoid Licorice and Ginger Tea

While licorice and ginger tea is a gentle, food-based remedy for most people, there are important safety considerations to keep in mind — particularly regarding licorice root.

Licorice Safety Notes

High blood pressure: Licorice root contains glycyrrhizin, a compound that can cause the body to retain sodium and excrete potassium, potentially raising blood pressure. If you have hypertension, heart disease, or kidney disease, avoid regular consumption of licorice root tea. A deglycyrrhizinated (DGL) form of licorice is available and may be safer, but consult your healthcare provider first.
Pregnancy: As noted, licorice root is traditionally avoided during pregnancy. Stick with plain ginger tea if you are expecting.
Low potassium levels: If you have a condition that lowers potassium (or take diuretics that deplete potassium), speak with your doctor before using licorice.
Medication interactions: Licorice can interact with certain medications, including blood thinners, blood pressure medications, and corticosteroids. If you take prescription medication, check with your pharmacist or doctor.

Ginger Safety Notes

Ginger is very safe for the vast majority of people. In very high doses (significantly more than what's in a cup of tea), it may thin the blood or cause mild heartburn in sensitive individuals.
If you are on blood-thinning medication (e.g., warfarin), discuss ginger consumption with your doctor, though standard tea amounts are generally considered safe.

Bottom line: Enjoy this tea mindfully. For most people, one to two cups per day is a nourishing, healthy addition to a balanced diet. If you have an underlying health condition or are pregnant, consult a qualified healthcare professional first.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I drink licorice and ginger tea every day?

Moderate consumption — one to two cups per day — is generally considered safe for most people. However, because licorice root contains glycyrrhizin, which can affect blood pressure and potassium levels, it is wise to take occasional breaks or limit your intake if you have any cardiovascular concerns. Ginger is very safe for daily use, so plain ginger tea is a great alternative for those who need to limit licorice.

Is this tea safe during pregnancy?

Pregnant individuals should avoid licorice root but may safely enjoy ginger tea in moderate, food-based amounts. Ginger is a time-honored remedy for pregnancy-related nausea. Always consult your healthcare provider before using any herbal teas during pregnancy.

Can I use fresh licorice root instead of dried?

Yes, fresh licorice root can be used. Wash it thoroughly and slice it into thin coins. Use roughly double the amount — about a 1-inch piece per cup — as fresh root is less concentrated than dried. The flavor will be slightly milder and earthier.

Does licorice and ginger tea help with bloating?

Yes, this tea is traditionally used in TCM to help relieve bloating and digestive discomfort. Ginger acts as a carminative, helping to expel gas and relax the intestinal muscles, while licorice is believed to soothe the stomach lining. Together they make a gentle digestive support.

When is the best time to drink this tea?

Twenty to thirty minutes after a meal is ideal for digestive support. It is also helpful first thing in the morning for an unsettled stomach, or during cold weather when you need warming energy. In TCM, the morning to early afternoon hours are considered the most active time for the digestive system, making this an optimal window.

Final Thoughts

Licorice and ginger tea is a beautiful example of how simple ingredients, prepared with intention, can become a meaningful part of your daily wellness practice. It is not a medicine in the pharmaceutical sense — it is a food-based, traditional remedy that supports the body's natural ability to find balance. In TCM philosophy, health is not about fighting symptoms but about nourishing the terrain of the body so that imbalance naturally resolves.

Whether you sip it after a heavy meal, brew a cold version for a summer afternoon, or share a pot with friends on a chilly evening, this tea is an invitation to slow down, breathe, and listen to your body. And that, perhaps, is the most healing ingredient of all.

Warmly, the BrothCalm writers

Licorice and Ginger Tea — Soothe the Stomach Naturally