The Power of Tea Made with Adaptogenic Herbs

Taking a break with a warm cup of tea is calming for the nerves in and of itself. In our recipe for Calming Chai with Adaptogenic Herbs, we add to the calming effect of teatime with herbs that support the nervous system and the stress response. A little bit of ghee adds richness. Try it with our Turmeric Spiced, Maple or Chocolate Ghee for even more gheeliciousness! This chai is dreamy enjoyed before bedtime, or any time throughout the day.

Shop for Ghee

What Are Adaptogenic Herbs?

Adaptogenic herbs help the body adapt to stress. They can support increased attention and endurance, and reduce stress-induced impairments to the neuro-endocrine and immune systems. Astragalus is an immune-stimulating adaptogen that has been used in Chinese medicine for thousands of years. Ashwagandha has been used in Ayurveda, the ancient Indian medicine system, for 3,000 years to relieve stress, increase energy and strength, and improve concentration.

We include these adaptogenic herbs in our chai recipe (and if you try our Turmeric Spiced ghee, you will find ashwagandha there as well!). When used consistently over time, adaptogens can help promote a grounded state of mind and being. Another medicinal herb included in our chai is oat straw, which helps nourish and tone the nervous system. Warming ginger, cardamom, cinnamon and clove stimulate and soothe the digestive system. Healthy digestion is considered key to overall health in Ayurveda.

Finally, a spoonful of golden ghee adds fat-soluble vitamins, rich flavor and silky texture, while helping deliver the benefits of these herbs deep into your tissues. Drink up!

Visit the Full Moon Ghee Shop

The Recipe: Calming Chai with Adaptogenic Herbs and Ghee

Serves 2.

Double or quadruple this recipe for a crowd, or if you want to sip chai all day! If you prefer a creamier chai, you can make this recipe with 1/2 milk and 1/2 water, or whatever ratio you prefer.

Ingredients:

• 2 ½ cups water
• 1-2 sticks dried astragalus, chopped or torn into small pieces
• 1 Tablespoon dried ashwagandha (powder or small pieces)
• 1 Tablespoon dried oat straw
• 1-inch piece fresh ginger, sliced, or ½ teaspoon dried ginger
• 4-5 cardamom pods
• 1-2 star anise
• 3-4 dried cloves
• ½ cinnamon stick
• Optional: ½ teaspoon dried turmeric powder + a few grinds fresh black pepper
• ½ cup milk of your choice
• 1-2 teaspoons Full Moon Ghee (Original, Maple, Turmeric Spiced or Chocolate)
• Optional: Maple syrup or raw honey to taste

Steps:

1. In a pot, combine water, astragalus, ashwagandha, oat straw, fresh ginger, cardamom, star anise, cloves, cinnamon stick, and turmeric and pepper if using.
2. Bring to a boil, reduce heat and simmer, covered, 20-30 minutes.
3. Uncover and add milk and ghee. Simmer until heated through and the ghee has melted.
4. For a frothy chai latte, strain into a blender and blend for 10-20 seconds. Or, strain into a tall jar and blend with an immersion blender 10-20 seconds.
5. Pour your Calming Chai with Adaptogenic Herbs into two mugs. Sweeten with maple or honey and enjoy!

Sources for This Article:

Astragalus: An Ancient Root with Health Benefits – Healthline
Effects of Adaptogens on the Central Nervous System – National Center for Biotechnology Information