Pausing the day to have a cup of tea is one of life’s simplest & greatest pleasures in my humble opinion. In cold weather, I like to wrap my hands around the mug and take a minute to let my mind relax. Nourishment for mind and body.
What we choose to put into that mug can really make a difference to our health especially if you have a good herbalist on hand to blend some magic for you! Nataša's teas are not only good for you but also taste amazing. Always treads gently on the Earth, her blends are organic and use minimal, recyclable packaging.
The Turmeric Chai blend is a delicious warming blend that contains turmeric, cinnamon, licorice, ginger, cardamom pods and pepper. I thoroughly recommend using coconut milk to turn this blend into a golden latte but you can use any milk of your choice.
The Turmeric Chai is perfect for these cold days. Warming herbs like ginger, cinnamon, pepper and cardamom get the blood flowing around the body right to your fingers and toes helping you feel warmer from the inside out.
The blend will also work to boost your immune system which is essential this time of year. Turmeric, cinnamon, licorice, cardamom and ginger all exert an anti-microbial effect which means they work to inhibit any little nasties that may be lurking around in your body such as bacteria, fungi, or viruses. Turmeric also contains polysaccharides which are complex carbohydrates that stimulate the activity of your immune system and helps to increase the number of immune cells you have. This provides a well-needed boost to the body during winter when it feels like everybody you meet is coming down with something. At times like this, your immune system is working hard to keep you well so it will appreciate the effort!
Turmeric Chai is also fantastic for your digestion. The herbs stimulate digestive secretions allowing food to be more effectively and efficiently digested and help combat nausea. This combination provides a carminative effect on the digestive system which means that it prevents or relieves gas. So when you ask your hot date in for a coffee, opt for a turmeric latte instead (ha ha).
Liquorice and cinnamon are beautiful herbs that keep our blood sugar balanced. In addition to this, ginger has been found to improve insulin sensitivity which allows our cells to uptake glucose more efficiently. Type 2 Diabetes is unfortunately at epidemic proportions in Australia and insulin resistance can be an important early stage of that disease process.
Lastly, the Turmeric Chai blend works as a brilliant anti-inflammatory. The turmeric itself is the main star for that attraction but ginger and licorice play good supporting roles. Including black pepper allows the properties of the turmeric to be utilised more effectively by the body.
It is now believed that chronic inflammation can cause and contribute to many different diseases. A lifestyle that minimises inflammation may well be the most important way to combat these diseases. Supporting healthy pathways in the body with a nourishing cup of tea sounds like a sensible and easy way to start.
