Everyday wellness20 min
Make a Herbal Tea Jar: Tulsi, Dry Ginger and Lemongrass
A homemade jar of dried tulsi, lemongrass and sonth to brew a caffeine-free cup any time, cheaper and fresher than many packaged herbal teas.
Using lemongrass sensibly at home
Lemongrass (gavati chai) is a fragrant grass brewed into a light, lemony tea in Maharashtra and Kerala, often with tulsi and ginger.
Many packaged 'kadha' and herbal teas are simple blends you can make at home with known ingredients. Dried lemongrass gives a citrusy aroma, tulsi adds warmth and sonth adds gentle heat.
Ingredients
- ½ cup dried tulsi leaves
- ½ cup dried lemongrass, cut small
- 2 tbsp sonth (dry ginger) pieces or 1 tbsp powder
- An airtight glass jar
How to prepare
- Dry tulsi and lemongrass in shade until crisp.
- Mix with sonth and store in the jar.
How to use
- Use 1 tsp of the mix per cup of hot water; steep five minutes.
- Enjoy one or two cups a day.
Helpful habits
- A pot of lemongrass grows easily; cut stalks from the outside.
Precautions
- Ginger is warming; reduce with acidity. Label the jar with the date and use within three months.
- Avoid concentrated lemongrass oil on skin without diluting it.
- Traditional use; scientific evidence is limited. Do not stop prescribed medicine.
Frequently asked questions
Can I add cinnamon or cardamom?
- Yes, a little crushed cardamom or cinnamon works well.
Why dry in shade?
- Direct sun can fade aroma and colour.
Use leaves or the stalk?
- Both; the white lower stalk is the most fragrant.
