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| - Quick Take
A social media post claims that drinking lemon ginger tea can make your hair long and strong. Our fact check found that this claim is mostly false.
The Claim
A post on Instagram suggests that drinking lemon ginger tea every day can make your hair long and strong, reduce inflammation and pain, treat ovarian cysts naturally, get rid of diabetes, improve digestion, and boost your skin health.
Fact Check
Does lemon ginger tea actually promote hair growth?
No, not really. While both lemon and ginger offer certain health benefits, there’s no strong evidence to suggest that drinking lemon ginger tea will magically make your hair grow longer or stronger. Lemon is rich in vitamin C, which supports collagen production, an important protein for healthy hair. Ginger contains antioxidants that may improve circulation, which could benefit your scalp. Although ginger may help reduce inflammation on the scalp, some research suggests that certain substances in ginger (gingerol) could actually hinder hair growth. On the other hand, a 2024 study indicates that cedrol, a compound found in ginger, could potentially stimulate hair growth. This adds to the controversy surrounding the current evidence. Furthermore, there isn’t enough scientific proof to guarantee significant hair growth or strength. Healthy hair actually depends on a balanced diet, hydration, and proper hair care—factors that go far beyond just drinking tea.
We connected with Dr Sachin Gupta, Consultant Dermatologist at Amrita Hospital, Faridabad, for his expert opinion on lemon ginger tea for hair growth. He says, “Healthy hair is not the result of a single ingredient or remedy. It comes from a combination of good nutrition, proper hair care practices, and genetic factors, which means that while herbal teas like lemon ginger can be part of a healthy diet, they are not a miracle solution for hair growth.”
Can lemon ginger tea reduce inflammation and pain?
Yes, to an extent it may help. Ginger has proven anti-inflammatory properties. Studies show that ginger can help reduce inflammation and pain, especially for joint pain and muscle aches. It contains a compound called gingerol, which has been shown to ease inflammation in some cases. Lemon also has antioxidants that help combat oxidative stress, which can contribute to inflammation. So, drinking lemon ginger tea might provide some mild relief from inflammation or general pain, but it shouldn’t serve as a replacement for professional treatments like medications or physical therapy for more serious conditions.
Can lemon ginger tea treat ovarian cysts naturally?
Unfortunately, no. Ovarian cysts are fluid-filled sacs that form either inside or on the surface of the ovaries. While many are harmless and resolve on their own, persistent or problematic cysts require medical attention. Although ginger has anti-inflammatory benefits for some conditions, there is no scientific evidence to suggest that lemon ginger tea can treat or shrink ovarian cysts. Similarly, while lemon is rich in vitamin C and antioxidants, it does not influence the formation or resolution of cysts. If you suspect you have ovarian cysts, it’s important to consult a healthcare provider for proper diagnosis and treatment.
Can lemon ginger tea help fight diabetes?
No, not exactly. Ginger has been studied for its potential to help lower blood sugar levels, but drinking lemon ginger tea won’t cure diabetes. Type 2 diabetes is a serious, chronic condition that requires careful management through diet, exercise, and medication. As of now, there’s no cure for diabetes. Lemon’s vitamin C content is great for overall health, but it won’t replace the necessary treatments for diabetes. If you have diabetes, it’s important to work with your healthcare provider to manage the condition.
We consulted Dr P Rammanohar, Research Director at the Amrita School of Ayurveda, for his insights on natural cures for diabetes. He explains, “In Ayurveda, diabetes is classified into different stages based on its progression. Early-stage diabetes, or Kapha Prameha, can often be managed and even reversed with lifestyle changes and supportive treatments. However, advanced diabetes, known as Pitta Prameha, cannot be cured but can be controlled with lifelong medication. In its most severe form, Vata Prameha, diabetes becomes very difficult to manage. Despite extensive research, no single herb or remedy has been found to offer a complete cure for diabetes.”
In an earlier interview with THIP Media, Dr V Mohan shared his views on diabetes cure and remission. He stated, “The terms ‘Diabetes Reversal’ or ‘Diabetes Cure’ have gained a lot of attention recently, though they are not entirely new. A more accurate term would be ‘Diabetes Remission,’ as it means the condition has temporarily improved but could return. Currently, there is no cure for diabetes.”
Similarly, while some people recommend lemon water for weight loss, it is not a miracle solution for burning fat.
Can lemon ginger tea actually improve digestion?
Yes, it may. Ginger has long been used to soothe the stomach, reduce nausea, and improve digestion. It can help calm indigestion and bloating. Lemon, with its acidity, may also support digestion by stimulating bile production. If you’re dealing with mild indigestion, lemon ginger tea might be a helpful remedy. However, if you suffer from chronic digestive issues, it’s best to speak with a doctor for a more thorough treatment plan.
We spoke with Dietitian Anuradha Sharma, M.Sc. Food Science and Nutrition Management (Gold Medalist), Kolkata, for her expertise on lemon ginger tea for digestion. She says, “Lemon ginger tea can definitely help with digestion! Ginger is known for its ability to reduce bloating, improve gut motility, and ease nausea, while lemon adds a dose of vitamin C and can stimulate digestive juices. Together, they make a soothing drink that supports your digestive system, especially after a heavy meal. However, it’s not a magic cure—pair it with a balanced diet and healthy habits for the best results.”
Moreover, ginger may not be safe for individuals in late pregnancy, those with a history of pregnancy complications, or those with clotting disorders.
Can lemon ginger tea really improve skin health?
There’s some truth to this one, though it’s not a miracle cure. Lemon is rich in antioxidants and vitamin C, which plays a crucial role in collagen production—important for healthy skin. Ginger’s antioxidants can help protect the skin from damage caused by free radicals. Drinking lemon ginger tea might help keep you hydrated and provide some protection against skin ageing. But, just like with hair, skin health relies on a lot more than just drinking tea. A good skincare routine, including sunscreen and moisturiser, along with a diet that supports healthy skin, is also important for maintaining healthy skin.
We reached out to Dr Ekansh Shekhar, Dermatologist, Cosmetologist, Trichologist, and Aesthetic Medicine Consultant based in Lucknow, for his expert opinion on lemon ginger tea for skin health. He explains, “Lemon ginger tea is often thought to help with acne, reduce wrinkles, and brighten the skin. While both lemon and ginger have antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties, there’s limited scientific evidence to support these claims. The tea might offer mild benefits like helping digestion and promoting overall health, but it won’t significantly address skin concerns. For healthy skin, it’s more important to maintain a good skincare routine, protect your skin from the sun, and live a balanced lifestyle, rather than relying on this tea as a miracle cure.”
All in all, while ginger is healthy, it’s important to know how much ginger is safe to consume.
THIP Media Take
In conclusion, the claim that drinking lemon ginger tea can make your hair long and strong is mostly false. While lemon ginger tea may offer some health benefits, the claims about it making your hair long and strong, treating ovarian cysts, curing diabetes, or drastically improving skin health are exaggerated. It can help with digestion and may provide some anti-inflammatory benefits, but it’s not a miracle cure. For real health improvements, it’s always best to follow a balanced diet, stay hydrated, and consult a healthcare professional when needed.
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