During this busy time of year, we can get a little run down and our immune system could use a little boost. This Yogi Tea recipe does just the trick to purify the blood, aids in assisting our colon/digestive track, beneficial to our nervous system, strengthens bones and healing for colds/flu while increasing energy. It is like a “magic” potion. 🙂 You can drink it hot or chilled – it is amazing any way you like it.
There is a story of when Yogi Bhajan (the man responsible for bringing Kundalini Yoga to the West in 1969) was a military commander in India there was an epidemic among his troops. He ordered all of his men to fill their canteens with yogi tea and drink nothing else, not even water. His Battalion was the only unit that didn’t get sick! So many healing benefits.
RECIPE
20 short cinnamon sticks
3 tablespoons whole (not ground) green cardamom pods (found at whole foods) pounded so they are open or you can use a rolling pin to crush them open
1 tablespoon cloves
1 1/3 tablespoons peppercorns
As much as 2 handfuls of peeled and chopped ginger cut in long sticks
2 1/2 – 3 gallons of water (use a big pot)
(Optional) 1 large black tea bag (I prefer not to use this due to caffeine) it acts as an alloy for the ingredients to create a balance
Wait until the water is a full boil. Add the ingredients, lower the heat to a slow, rolling boil (not a lot of steam) and simmer for 2 hours. You can even add a little more water if some evaporated when you are done. As soon as the tea is cool enough to handle, strain the tea or else it becomes bitter.
The tea lasts about 1 week refrigerated. You can also freeze the tea and serve it cold or hot. It is recommended to add soy, almond or coconut milk when drinking to make assimilation easier on the tummy. Bottoms up and enjoy!