Tulsi Tea Rasayana

Ingredients

1 tbsp fresh Tulsi leaves (or 1 tsp dried)
1/2 inch fresh ginger, thinly sliced
1/4 tsp cardamom powder
pinch of cinnamon
pinch of licorice root (optional)
1 tsp honey or to taste

Directions

Bring 12 oz of water to a boil in a small pot
Add Tulsi leaves, ginger, cardamom, cinnamon, and licorice root if using
Lower heat and simmer for 5-7 minutes until the water takes on a rich amber color
Strain into your favorite cup
Allow to cool slightly before adding honey (adding honey to very hot tea destroys its medicinal properties)

Notes

In Ayurvedic medicine, Tulsi is considered a rasayana – a healing herb that promotes longevity and balance across the three doshas (Vata, Pitta, and Kapha). Its adaptogenic properties help the body resist stressors of all kinds, from environmental toxins to emotional strain.

Tulsi is particularly valued for:

Supporting respiratory health and fighting coughs, colds, and bronchitis
Enhancing immunity through its antimicrobial and antiviral effects
Reducing inflammation and fever
Balancing blood sugar levels
Calming the nervous system to alleviate stress and anxiety

Ginger stimulates digestion and clears respiratory congestion, cardamom helps to relieve gas while supporting mental clarity, cinnamon helps regulate blood sugar, and licorice soothes irritated tissues, supports the adrenal glands, and serves as a natural sweetener with anti-inflammatory properties. Together, these herbs directly counteract Kapha qualities, support immune function, and enhance the overall rejuvenative properties of the preparation.

Drink this rasayana tea daily, preferably in the morning, to strengthen immunity, clear respiratory channels, and balance all three doshas.

Dosha Type

VK-P+ (in excess)

This recipe primarily reduces Kapha; it also helps to balance Vata and, in excess, can aggravate Pitta. To attain maximum Kapha-reducing benefits during late winter and early spring, add an extra pinch of warming spices like black pepper, dry ginger or clove.

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