Dandelion Chicory Chai Tea

During my studies with Rosemary Gladstar, I began making this most nutritious and delicious herbal tea. One of our assignments was to create a wellness program for ourselves and I created this recipe as my coffee substitute. I make this tea for groups that I run, for friends and family. Everyone is always asking me to make it when they come over. I always have some in the fridge, ready to add the oat milk and honey for guests.

Dandelion root is considered an Alterative, also known as a blood purifier. Alteratives alter the condition of the blood and support assimilation of nutrients.They also help to eliminate metabolic waste and they neutralize acidic conditions in the body, aiding in protein assimilation as well as being high in minerals and vitamins. Some other examples of Alteratives are: Nettle, Burdock Root and Red Clover.

Chicory Root is a wonderful caffeine-free coffee substitute, rich in antioxidants and nourishing for healthy gut bacteria. Roasted Chicory root adds a robust toasty coffee flavour without caffeine, reducing stress on the nervous system and helping to improve sleep.

It’s important to add that if you are pregnant or breast feeding it is best to avoid chicory root.

Cinnamon, Clove and Cardamom are all circulatory stimulants, which will support to cleanse and increase blood flow in the body, warming the digestive system and strengthening the cardiovascular system as well.

To make Dandelion Chicory Chai, place 2 Tablespoons into 6-8 cups of water. The harder plant material in this tea require you to make a Decoction. This means you will simmer the tea with the top on for at least an hour to allow the roots, sticks and buds to open and release their essential oils and medicinal properties into the water. Depending how strong you like your tea will depend how long you simmer. After an hour, you can strain 3/4 of your tea into a tea pot, using a strainer or a sieve. If you like you can do a second decoction to get the most out of your plant material)

I like to add oat milk and honey or you may prefer to have it as it is if that is your preference. When storing in the fridge, you will keep it black.

Feel free to reach out with any questions on how to make the tea or suggestions on double decocting.

This product is not intended to treat, diagnose or cure any disease and does not replace your medical practitioners advise.