Immunity10 min
Star Anise (Chakra Phool) Winter Tea
One star anise simmered with a slice of ginger for a fragrant, thin, caffeine-free winter tea. A pleasant warm drink, not a treatment for flu; skip in pregnancy.
Important: this remedy is only a supportive home measure. Keep taking any medicine your doctor has prescribed, monitor your readings, and consult your doctor before adding anything new.
A fragrant warm cup
Star anise, or chakra phool, is the star-shaped spice used in biryani and masala chai. Its sweet, liquorice-like aroma makes a pleasant caffeine-free tea in cold weather.
Simmer one pod with a slice of ginger for five minutes and strain. Keep it light and unsweetened or with a little jaggery. This is a flavourful warm drink and not a treatment for cold or flu.
Ingredients
- 1 star anise pod
- 1 cup water
- 2 thin slices of ginger
How to prepare
- Simmer all together for five minutes.
- Strain into a cup.
How to use
- Sip warm once a day.
- Add a little jaggery if you like.
Helpful habits
- Do not over-boil, it turns bitter.
- Use one pod only.
Precautions
- Avoid in pregnancy and with infants; use only culinary amounts.
- Stop if you feel unwell after it.
- A warm drink, not a treatment.
Frequently asked questions
Is star anise the same as aniseed?
- No, but they taste similar.
Can I add tulsi?
- Yes.
Is it fine for kids?
- Not for young children; keep to adults.
