This Homemade Ginger Ale recipe is really delicious and also a fantastic natural remedy. Soothe an upset stomach, fight colds and enjoy the wonderful taste of real ginger.
Easy Homemade Ginger Ale Recipe
If you love ginger ale, know that you can make your own at home without any artificial ingredients and preservatives. Yes, a healthy and all-natural recipe that can also be a natural remedy. Why make your own, though? Why not just buy one of the dozen cheap ready-to-drink brands at the grocery store?
The answer lies in the ingredients. Take a look at what you’ll find in one of the most popular ginger ale brands. Also, pay attention to what you won’t find in it!
- Carbonated water
- Sucrose
- High Fructose Corn Syrup
- Citric acid
- Flavoring
- Sodium citrate
- Preservative (sodium benzoate)
- Caramel color
I see lots of sugar and fake stuff…but where is the ginger??? Turns out, if you actually want ginger in your ginger ale, you either have to buy pricey stuff from a natural grocer OR make your own. Thankfully, making it yourself is SOOO easy and inexpensive. Seriously, it’s a totally no-fail recipe that takes just minutes to make.
If you’re in a rush and just want to whip up a batch, go ahead and scroll down to the recipe at the bottom of the page. I’d love it if you stick around, though, because we’re going to go over some of the amazing benefits of ginger ale. We’ll also check out some “add-ins” to try to really elevate this home remedy to whole new levels.
Quick note, though, before we move on. Please remember that this information should not replace professional medical advice. It is always a good idea to talk to your doctor before trying any natural remedies.
Benefits of Using REAL Ginger in Ginger Ale
Ginger has a rich history as a natural remedy that dates back to at least 2,500 years ago, possibly even longer. When I was pregnant, I practically lived on this homemade drink during my morning sickness stage. It’s a rock star when it comes to soothing nausea, but that’s not all it’s good for. Here are some science-backed benefits of real ginger.
- It’s amazing for soothing muscle pain. According to a 2010 study, “daily ginger consumption also reduces muscle pain caused by exercise” by up to 25%.
- Ginger helps fight bad breath, according to this 2018 study. It works by breaking down the enzymes that cause halitosis (rather than just masking the odor).
- Ginger can aid in the fight against cancer. A 2003 study found a compound in it “appears to inhibit the growth of human colorectal cancer cells.”
- Along with other spices (more below) ginger helps reduce inflammation, according to a 2020 Penn State study.
- It may even help fight autoimmune diseases. A 2021 study found that the spice “helps halt disease progression in mice with antiphospholipid syndrome and lupus.”
Smaller studies and anecdotal evidence suggest that it can also aid weight loss, soothe menstrual cramps, lower your blood sugar and cholesterol, and even help fight Alzheimer’s. Ginger also has a potent anti-viral substance that makes it fantastic for soothing sore throats or coughs. If you make hot Ginger Tea
, you can breathe in the hot elixir and help clear your nasal passages.
There really isn’t much that ginger can’t do. Oh, and while the taste isn’t a “health benefit” of real ginger, it definitely deserves a mention! There’s NO comparison between the amazing flavor of this homemade version and that of store-bought ginger ale.
Homemade Ginger Ale Add-Ins to Try
Now, as promised, let’s take a look at a few add-ins to elevate this natural remedy to whole new levels.
- Turmeric: One of the “other spices” mentioned above that helps fight inflammation, turmeric is a powerful natural pain reliever.
- Cinnamon: Ginger’s perfect mate, this spice also fights inflammation, lowers your blood sugar, fights infections, and even boosts your brainpower.
- Cumin: Like turmeric, cumin fights inflammation and helps relieve pain. The ginger helps balance out the earthy taste of the cumin, especially when combined with cinnamon.
- Basil: It sounds weird, but basil and ginger ale actually go together really well. Basil is a great mood lifter and can help fight cancer, heart disease, and inflammation.
- Mint: Nothing beats the combination of mint and ginger for soothing upset stomachs! The combo is also great for muscle pain.
- Lemongrass: This herb has a lemony kick while helping boost ginger ale’s nausea-relieving and brain-boosting effects.
Along with different herbs and spices, you can also add in some fruits to give your ginger ale a whole new flavor. Some of my favorites include:
- Cherries
- Raspberries, blackberries, and blueberries
- Lemons and limes
- Oranges (or pretty much any citrus fruit)
- Passion fruit
- Mango
You can either use real fruit juices (fresh squeezed is best, but organic 100% juices work well too) and just mix them into your ginger ale, or use whole fruits in an infuser (like the kind you use for infused water recipes). I like this one below because you can make a whole pitcher at once, versus just a single serving’s worth.
Make real ginger ale and get all the wonderful health benefits
Now that you know all of the many reasons to make your own homemade ginger ale, let’s check out that recipe! By the way, while fresh is best, in a pinch you can also use dried and powdered ginger.
Homemade Ginger Ale
- Prep Time: 5 mins
- Cook Time: 0 mins
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Yield: 1 glass 1x
Description
A super easy healthy homemade Ginger Ale recipe. Perfect for nausea, soothe an upset stomach, and fight colds.
Ingredients
- 2 inch piece of fresh ginger juiced or grated (use only 1 inch if you do not want such a strong ginger flavor)
- 8 ounces of sparkling or carbonated water
- 1/2 lemon juiced or squeezed
- 1 tbsp honey
Instructions
Juicing Method: First you need to juice the ginger and lemon. Then, mix well well with the sparking or carbonated water, and honey.
Blending Method: Grate the ginger and squeeze 1/2 lemon. Then blend all the ingredients together and pour through a fine strainer.
Drink it up and Enjoy!
Notes
You can add 1 inch of peeled fresh turmeric and incorporate it to your ginger ale recipe and turn it into a wellness shot! Turmeric is really great for fighting inflammation and boosting the immune system. Either method will work fine (blending or juicing with the rest of the ingredients).
Use a pinch of cayenne pepper to help clear any congestion you might have if you are dealing with a cold. The lemon, ginger and cayenne combination will give you lots of energy!
I recommend starting with just one inch of fresh ginger and work up your way to 2 inches or desired taste. Ginger has a very strong taste.
Use more or less honey according to taste. Remember the benefits of eating Pure Natural Raw Honey
are simply amazing. Buying raw honey is really important!
- Category: Drink
- Method: Juicing
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: homemade, ginger ale, healthy, natural ginger ale, homemade ginger ale
Other easy homemade recipes you might want to try:
- Tropical Mango Smoothie
- Blueberry Kale Breakfast Smoothie
- Anti-Reflux Energizing & Healing Morning Smoothie
- Everyday Coconut Water Breakfast Smoothie
- How To Make A Multivitamin Smoothie For Kids
I am a huge believer in natural remedies and nutrition. This is the reason why I am always looking for more natural ways to treat common health problems.
Are you fighting a cold? Check out my Detox Bath post. A great natural way to boost the immune system and fight a cold FAST! It really works for my family and I highly recommend it.
Last update on 2021-05-14 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
R C says
How does one juice a piece of ginger root?
Creative Healthy Family says
You need a juicer. Also figuring out other ways to get ginger juice. Will update the post soon. Thanks.
Chris plant says
I would consider juicing or pulverizing in a food processor (which I have done) a larger batch of ginger and freeze into ice cube trays.
I have done something very similar for tea. Having lived with migraines my whole life causing nausea this affords me to skip one more pill, the anti-nausea. I’m trying this recipe though sounds good.
Creative Healthy Family says
Thank you for your comment. Hope it works!
Steph Walters says
Thanks for posting directions for using a blender! I don’t have a juicer. Looking forward to trying this.
Creative Healthy Family says
Thank you and enjoy the recipe!
John sam says
For its easy to get ginger juice. Just smash it many times inside a clean plastic bag, and than mix with lemon juice and all ingredients stir well and strain it. Enjoy your home made ginger ale.
Martha says
How would you do this recipe if you don’t have a juicer?
Creative Healthy Family says
Hi, many people are asking the same question. I will try and find other ways and will update the post soon. Thanks.
Nancy Hardman says
You can juice ginger by putting peeled pieces in a garlic press (my Pampered Chef press works well). Or, for larger pieces, an electric juicer is probably best–just put peeled pieces in like you would carrots, celery, or apples.
Creative Healthy Family says
Thanks for the tips!
Wendy says
Can you make this in larger quantities ? Seems like a lot of work for 1 glass
Creative Healthy Family says
Sure!
Iorrie says
you can easily grate a small piece as needed in a bowl. add warm honey and lemon juice and mix well. put a small strainer in a glass. add carbonated water to the bowl just before you are ready to strain it. stir gently or you will have “flat” gingerale.
I don’t think you can make large batches without losing carbonation. I have done this to make tea for years but didn’t think to replace the water with carbonated water. thank you!
Louise says
Can I use chopped ginger in a jar?
Creative Healthy Family says
Absolutely!
Carla says
How do you juice the ginger? Sorry for stupid question lol
Creative Healthy Family says
Not a stupid question at all. You need a juicer. I am also trying to find other ways without having to use one. I will update the post soon. Thanks.
Kim says
I don’t have a juicer. Is there another way to juice ginger? I’d love to try this!
Creative Healthy Family says
I am trying to figure out other ways to get ginger juice. Stay tuned for an update very soon.
Donna says
I grew up in the Detroit area in the 60’s drinking ginger ale (Vernors 😊) believing that it cured all sorts of ails. As an adult, I know the soda/pop available today is not what they meant!
My question is, do you need a true juicer or can you use a strong blender like a vitamix?
Creative Healthy Family says
Thank you for comment. The best way is really juicing the ginger. I am going to do some research and explore other possibilities. I will soon add them to my post. Thanks.
Dramatori says
You should explain how to juice ginger. I had to go look it up elsewhere. Good idea though!
Creative Healthy Family says
Sorry about that. I will edit the post and add a description for it. Thanks for the suggestion.
Laura says
How do you juice ginger? I don’t own a juicer machine.
Creative Healthy Family says
The best way is really to juice the ginger but if you don’t have a juicer you can buy ginger juice at a health supermarket. Hope this helps!
TOBIAS says
Can someone with adrenal fatigue drink this?
I find that if I eat ginger I get terrible herx reaction – like strong detox….
I cant tolerate alcohol but this drink seems to be herbal?
I have never tried ale before….although being in the UK theres load all around me….
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Creative Healthy Family says
I don’t see why not but if you have a negative reaction to ginger you might want to try just a little bit first and see how it goes.
Denni says
Replying to Tobias: In the US, ginger ale contains ginger and carbonated water, and in this recipe, honey for a sweetener. Unlike the ales in your country, it is unfermented and therefore contains no alcohol.
Jane says
I have been making this for my husband and I every day, for the past week. I simmer the lemon and ginger in a small amount of water, cool, then add the honey and carbonated water. We have been able to drink this as a substitute for commercial ginger ale. The time period of my cold was shorter than usual during this same week. We love it.
Creative Healthy Family says
So happy to know that it is working for you and your husband. I am a huge believer in natural remedies and nutrition and this is proof. Thanks for sharing!
tin says
thanks for sharing. it would be so useful. and very match with the changing climate.
Hope it good for all ages.
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Creative Healthy Family says
Thank you for your comment. Yes, it is good for all ages.
Lynley says
I have a juicer do i just put the ginger in there or do i peel it. I dont want to hert my juicer
Creative Healthy Family says
I don’t see why it will hurt the juicer. Hope this helps 🙂
Kristina says
Is there a way to make this without a juicer?
Creative Healthy Family says
Hi, the best way is really with a juicer but if you don’t have one you can buy juiced ginger at a supermarket. Hope this helps!
Laura says
Even if one owns a juicer, it’s kind of silly to dirty it up for such a small piece of ginger. I’ve grated ginger before. I’ve even put small pieces in my garlic press. I would not suggest doing this as ginger juice explodes everywhere causing a great mess! Anyway, since I’ve seen soooo many folks ask how one can juice ginger without a juicer I decided to give it a google. So, here ya go my friends: https://www.thespruceeats.com/how-to-make-ginger-juice-695297 In case you can’t click the link I just added, simply copy and paste it in a new window. I hope this helps. I’m currently making a ginger bug (fermenting) to make natural ginger ale.
Creative Healthy Family says
Thank you so much for the recommendation!
Susan says
You may want to grate the ginger and get the juice from it…am a domestic helper and that is what i do whenever i ginger juice for marination.
Creative Healthy Family says
Great idea! Thanks for sharing.
Joyce says
Dont think you have to juice the lemon and ginger. You can slice the lemon thinly, grate the ginger, add honey and store in a jar in refrigerator. Then add a tablespoon or two to bottom of tall glass, add ice and add sparkling water or plain water.
For reference google Chef Maangchi YouTube her lemon and ginger teas, cold or hot. 💛
Melanie says
Has anyone tried water bath or pressure canning the ginger ale in this recipe?
Creative Healthy Family says
I haven’t but I’m curious to know…..
John sam says
Hi all. To have ginger juice it’s easy. Put ginger as you need in zip lock bag and smash it, then take it out and mix well with all ingredients including lemon juice. Strain it and enjoy your home made ginger ale.
Creative Healthy Family says
Great! Thanks for the tip!
Deb says
Hey, how long does this stay fresh?
Creative Healthy Family says
Hi, I would not keep it for later but just make it right before you drink it 🙂
Devin says
For those without a juicer- there are loose leaf tea bags you can buy in the tea section of your local grocery store. You can use a garlic press and/or chop it and press it with a knife to get the juices flowing. Put it into the loose leaf tea bag and put the bag in the water. For best results add it to hot water like you would a tea it’ll release the juices and phytonutrients. If you go this route I recommend making it in a batch a day ahead of time. Put the ginger in the hot water and let it come to room temp over a few hrs (or once at room temp store in the fridge overnight) then add it to your mixture. Hopefully this helps 🙂
Creative Healthy Family says
Thank you so much for the tip!
Suzanne says
This looks so good! It would be nice to make for friends instead of Christmas cookies !
Vanessa says
THanks for sharing! Does it keep long?
Creative Healthy Family says
Hi, thank you for reading the recipe! It is best to drink it right away for best results 🙂
Lailaa says
Hi how long will this keep? I’d love to try it! Thanks
Creative Healthy Family says
Hi, I like to make it and serve right away. It will be good to keep refrigerated but the sooner you drink it the better.
Ann says
I love this healthy and all natural recipe. It’s good for all ages. Not only this is delicious but also a great way to fight a cold.
Thank you for such an informative post. I hope this will inspire many of your followers to give this recipe a try.
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Creative Healthy Family says
Thank you so much for your comment!
Cindi says
Burns my mouth! Can only imagine what it might do to my stomach.
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Creative Healthy Family says
So sorry! Maybe you are using too much ginger?
Jennifer says
Seems like a nice recipe. I suggest to those without a juicer to simply use the finest grater possible, grate the ginger into a small bowl. Then scoop the pulp into whatever kind of thin, clean cloth you have (ideal would be a jelly straining bag or cheesecloth) and squeeze out the juice.
On a side note, I think your discussion of the health benefits could be edited or streamlined. It was fairly repetitive.
Creative Healthy Family says
Thank you for your comment and suggestions.
Menunell Whitten says
I am highly allergic to honey will maple syrup work in this recipe? I have Lyme disease and always looking to improve my health.
Creative Healthy Family says
I don’t see why not. Maple syrup or stevia will work.
Shana says
How much juice does the ginger make? I have found some organic ginger juice at a Natural Grocers that might work.
Creative Healthy Family says
Not much but enough for this recipe if you buy one. You can also try the organic ginger juice!
Lilly says
Just made this with only 1inch ginger and the blender method and my throat has been on fire for 10min after only one sip 😭
Creative Healthy Family says
Oh no! Sorry to hear that. Try 1/2 an inch and see how it goes. Sometimes ginger can be very strong!
Suzanne says
This looks so good! Its amazing how simple it is to make! What a fun idea for a party!
Creative Healthy Family says
Thanks!
Vanessa says
Thanks for sharing! How long is it good for?
Creative Healthy Family says
Thank you. I recommend to drink it right away but 1-2 days is fine also.
Moksha Essentials says
I love to read your articles because your writing style is too good, it is very very helpful for all of us and I never get bored while reading your article because, they are becomes a more and more interesting from the starting lines until the end.
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Cathy H. Greenlaw says
Can you use powdered ginger in the spice jar?
Creative Healthy Family says
Hi, I guess you could but it will loose some flavor.
Moksha Lifestyle says
Great Article… I love to read your articles because your writing style is too good, it is very very helpful for all of us and I never get bored while reading your article because, they are becomes a more and more interesting from the starting lines until the end.
★★★★★
Creative Healthy Family says
Thank you.
Karla Thompson says
Just wanted to say Thank you for the yummy drink recipe. I just finished making it and added in the pinch of cayenne pepper and 1/4 tsp of powdered turmeric. WOW what a delicious and refreshing drink.. I will never buy canned ginger ale ever again.
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Creative Healthy Family says
Thank you so much for your comment. Glad you enjoyed the recipe.
Moksha Lifestyle says
Oh, I love this, and need to read it again! you have the basics laid out so clearly! Great job,
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