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Cultural & educational only. This tea is shared as a traditional Indian home brew and part of culinary heritage. It is not medical advice and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any condition. If you are pregnant, taking medication, or have a health concern, talk to a healthcare professional. Full disclaimer →
Tulsi (holy basil) is a revered plant in India, often grown in a pot by the front door. Paired with fresh ginger and hot water, it makes a comforting, aromatic tea traditionally enjoyed to feel warm and cozy. It's simple, caffeine-free, and easy to make with a tulsi plant on the windowsill or dried leaves.
Ingredients
- 2 cups water
- 1-inch piece fresh ginger, crushed
- 8–10 fresh tulsi (holy basil) leaves
- 1 tsp honey (optional)
- Squeeze of lemon (optional)
Method
- Bring the water to a boil with the crushed ginger and let it simmer 3–4 minutes so the ginger infuses.
- Add the tulsi leaves and simmer another 2–3 minutes, until the kitchen smells fragrant. Don't boil the leaves too hard for too long — a gentle steep keeps the aroma.
- Strain into cups.
- Stir in a little honey and a squeeze of lemon if you like, and sip warm.
🌿 Add honey off the heat
Stir honey in after you've taken the tea off the boil and it's cooled slightly — adding it to boiling water dulls the flavor and the delicate tulsi aroma.