Can pregnant women drink ginger water for cold symptoms such as nasal congestion and runny nose?
Feb 13, 2023
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Guo Xiheng
Introduction
Pregnant women with cold symptoms such as nasal congestion and runny nose may drink ginger tea, but this generally depends on the type of cold. If the cold is due to wind-cold, drinking ginger tea is usually acceptable. Ginger is a warming food that helps relieve exterior syndromes, dispel cold, and warm the lungs, thereby alleviating symptoms. However, if the cold is of the wind-heat type, ginger tea is generally not recommended, as it may worsen the condition.
Whether a pregnant woman with cold symptoms such as nasal congestion and runny nose can drink ginger water usually depends on the type of cold. From the perspective of traditional Chinese medicine, colds are generally classified into wind-cold and wind-heat types.
1. Wind-Cold Cold
If symptoms are caused by a wind-cold cold, drinking ginger water is usually acceptable. Ginger is considered a warming food that helps release the exterior, dispel cold, and warm the lungs. It can help relieve symptoms such as nasal congestion, runny nose, and cough. However, it is not recommended to consume large amounts over a long period, as this may lead to excessive internal heat.
2. Wind-Heat Cold
If the cold is of the wind-heat type, drinking ginger water is generally not advised, as it may increase internal heat and hinder its dissipation, potentially worsening the condition.
