This immune and respiratory boosting tea is perfect for cold days. Whether you are soothing a sore throat from last week’s wicked winds, wanting to ward off the congestion that may try to sneak in with the wet days ahead, or need a little warmth, brew a mug of this healing tea.
Tulsi, also known as Holy Basil, is revered as one of the most sacred herbs in India. Tulsi is considered an adaptogen and expectorant as well as contains anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. Adaptogens help the body adapt and recover from stress while being deeply balancing for the nervous system. Tulsi is known to work wonders to prevent and recover from congestion, colds, and flu.
Tulsi tea bags can be found at most groceries stores. You can find loose leaf tulsi locally at Willy Street Coop and Community Pharmacy or online at Rose Mountain herbs.
My all time favorite honey comes from Snug Haven farm. You can purchase their honey at the Madison Saturday farmers market. Lemon is high in vitamin C and antioxidants while ginger is warming and promotes circulation. These are all good provisions to have on hand through the coming cold weather months.
INGREDIENTS
4 cups water
1-2 inch knob of ginger, sliced
Juice from half a lemon
2 tbsp loose leaf or 2 tea bags of Tulsi
honey to taste
METHOD
1. In a medium pot, bring water and ginger to a boil. Then cover with a lid and reduce heat to low for 5-10 minutes.
2. Turn off heat and add tulsi, let steep for 5-10 minutes.
3. Remove tea bags or if choosing loose leaf tea, strain tea through a fine mesh strainer.
4. Add lemon and honey.
Serves 2-4