Across time, cultures all over the world have looked to nature for solace. Traditional healing drinks are one of the most intriguing ways that this knowledge is preserved; they are warm, calming, and brimming with therapeutic benefits. Let's travel the globe and sample some of these traditional, age-old beverages.
1. Turmeric Milk (India)
Known locally as Haldi Doodh and popularly rebranded in the West as “Golden Milk,” this vibrant drink has been a staple in Indian households for centuries. Turmeric is celebrated for its anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and antioxidant properties.
Ingredients:
- Turmeric
- Milk (or plant-based milk)
- Black pepper (boosts absorption)
- Honey (optional)
Health Benefits:
Relieves cold symptoms, reduces inflammation, improves digestion, and promotes better sleep.
2. Miso Soup (Japan)
More than just a comfort food, traditional miso soup is a fermented powerhouse rich in probiotics that support gut health and immunity.
Ingredients:
- Miso paste (fermented soybean)
- Seaweed
- Tofu
- Scallions
Health Benefits:
Boosts gut health, strengthens immunity, and provides essential nutrients like vitamins B and E.
3. Jamu (Indonesia)
Jamu is a centuries-old herbal drink, traditionally made by Indonesian women to boost vitality and prevent illness. It's often sold fresh in markets or homemade.
Ingredients:
- Turmeric
- Ginger
- Tamarind
- Palm sugar
- Lime
Health Benefits:
Anti-inflammatory, detoxifying, and immune-boosting.
4. Roselle Tea (West Africa & Southeast Asia)
Made from the dried calyces of the hibiscus plant, Roselle tea (known as Sobolo in Ghana or Agua de Jamaica in Mexico) is vibrant, tangy, and packed with antioxidants.
Ingredients:
- Dried hibiscus petals
- Ginger
- Cloves
- Sweetener (optional)
Health Benefits:
Lowers blood pressure, supports liver health, and provides a vitamin C boost.
5. Kvass (Eastern Europe)
Kvass is a traditional fermented drink from Russia and Ukraine, typically made from rye bread. It’s mildly fizzy and slightly sour, with a low alcohol content.
Ingredients:
- Rye bread
- Sugar
- Water
- Yeast
Health Benefits:
Aids digestion, replenishes gut bacteria, and is rich in B vitamins.
6. Mate (Argentina, Uruguay, Paraguay)
Mate is a deeply social drink made from the leaves of the yerba mate plant. It’s traditionally sipped from a gourd with a metal straw (bombilla).
Ingredients:
- Yerba mate leaves
- Hot water
Health Benefits:
Boosts energy, rich in antioxidants, supports mental focus.
7. Ginger Tea (China & Worldwide)
Used extensively in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), ginger tea is beloved for its warming, immune-boosting properties.
Ingredients:
- Fresh ginger
- Hot water
- Lemon and honey (optional)
Health Benefits:
Relieves nausea, soothes colds, aids digestion, and warms the body.
A lovely reminder of the knowledge passed down through the ages, traditional medicinal drinks range from tropical tonics to comforting herbal infusions. Making several of these drinks at home is simple and combines traditional healing methods with contemporary wellness practices.