Yogi Tea

The air of Kundalini Yoga classes and 3HO community gatherings is often spiced by the aromatic and rich scent of yogi tea. This recipe, based on the knowledge of Ayurveda, is both delicious and beneficial.

Made from a blend of clove, cardamom, cinnamon, ginger root, and black pepper, this strongly spiced tea is the perfect morning pick-me-up or post-kriya treat. Drink a cup a day for health and well-being.

Ingredients

  • 10 ounces of water (about 1 1/3 cups) 
  • 3 whole cloves 
  • 4 whole green cardamom pods, cracked 
  • 4 whole black peppercorns 
  • ½ stick cinnamon 
  • ¼ teaspoon black tea 
  • ½ cup milk of choice
  • 2 slices fresh ginger root

Instructions

  1. Bring water to a boil and add spices.
  2. Cover and boil for 15 to 20 minutes, then add black tea.
  3. Let steep for a few minutes then add the milk and return to a boil. (Don’t let it boil over!)
  4. When it reaches a boil, remove immediately from heat; strain, and sweeten with honey or agave, if desired.

 

Notes: To make ahead, simply steep the spices as instructed without adding milk. This tea base can be kept in the fridge for up to a week. You may like to make a large batch to keep at the ready. Simply heat a single serving on the stove with milk, or enjoy cold for a refreshing spin on the classic beverage.

Health Benefits of Yogi Tea

Yogi tea warms the body, supports the immune system, and stimulates digestion, liver, and spleen function. A pinch of black tea activates the therapeutic qualities of the spices. Milk helps in the easy assimilation of the spices and coats the stomach lining to avoid irritation.

In Ayurvedic tradition, the ingredients in yogi tea have specific benefits: black pepper purifies the blood, cinnamon strengthens the bones and is anti-parasitic, cardamom is a digestive aid, cloves fortify the nervous system, black tea activates the spices, and ginger root helps with colds, flu, digestion, and physical weakness.

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