During winters, mufflers wrapped tightly, woolen pants, and grandma’s knitted sweaters are never enough to shield us from the season's chill. The cold air sneaks in, leaving us with runny noses, scratchy throats, and a constant yearning for something warm to hold onto. This is when a steaming cup of tea becomes more than just a drink. It’s a comforting hug in a cup.
Winters in India are not just about cozy layers but also about staying healthy. The drop in temperature often brings along seasonal coughs, colds, and a general sense of lethargy. Tea, with its warmth and healing properties, becomes the go-to solution in most households. Whether it’s spiced masala chai to keep the cold at bay or soothing tulsi tea to calm a sore throat, the right brew can make all the difference.
In this blog, we’ll take you through the best teas to drink during winter, blending warmth, flavor, and health benefits to help you sail through the season effortlessly. But before that let me tell you why tea is perfect for winter!
Why Tea Is Perfect for Winters?
The warmth of tea helps regulate body temperature during cold days, but it’s the natural compounds in tea that make it a health booster. For instance, ginger tea is rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties, which can ease sore throats and boost immunity. Herbal teas like chamomile or peppermint are known for their calming effects, helping to reduce stress and improve sleep—much needed on chilly, restless nights.
Tea also supports digestion, which tends to slow down in winter due to heavier meals. Spiced teas, such as masala chai, stimulate digestive enzymes, preventing bloating and discomfort. Additionally, green and black teas contain polyphenols that enhance metabolism and combat oxidative stress, promoting overall wellness.
The act of sipping tea itself is therapeutic. Holding a warm cup and inhaling the fragrant steam can instantly relax your mind, creating a small yet impactful moment of self-care amidst the winter hustle. Tea, in every way, is a simple, science-backed remedy for health, warmth, and relaxation.
In Indian households, where the kitchen doubles as a pharmacy during winter, tea is often infused with spices like cinnamon, cardamom, and cloves to maximize its health benefits. This traditional wisdom, combined with modern science, cements tea as a winter essential for both health and comfort.
Now, let’s dive into the best teas you should try.
Top Teas to Drink During Winter
1. Ginger Tea
Ginger tea is like a warm hug for your insides. Known for its ability to improve digestion, ginger stimulates your stomach and relieves bloating, which is especially helpful after those heavy winter meals. It’s also a go-to remedy for colds, as ginger’s anti-inflammatory properties soothe sore throats and clear nasal congestion.
Why it's unique?
The spicy, invigorating flavor of ginger is both refreshing and warming, making it ideal for chilly mornings. Add a squeeze of lemon and a teaspoon of honey for an immunity-boosting, throat-soothing drink.
2. Masala Chai
Masala chai is the quintessential winter tea in Indian households. Packed with spices like cinnamon, cardamom, and cloves, it not only warms you up but also boosts metabolism and circulation. The spices in masala chai are natural immunity enhancers, helping to keep winter illnesses at bay.
Why it’s a winter favorite?
The bold, spicy flavor creates a cozy, comforting experience. Each ingredient—be it ginger, cloves, or black pepper—has health benefits that make it a powerful drink against winter chills.
How to prepare?
Boil water with black tea leaves, grated ginger, and your choice of spices (cardamom, cloves, cinnamon). Add milk and sugar, simmer, and strain into your favorite cup.
3. Green Tea with Mint
Green tea is already celebrated for its antioxidants, but adding mint to it makes it even better for winter. Mint clears nasal congestion and aids digestion, making it an excellent post-meal drink. The light, refreshing flavor of green tea with mint balances the heaviness of winter foods.
Why it's unique?
This tea combines the earthy notes of green tea with the cooling yet warming sensation of mint, creating a perfect balance for winter evenings.
How to prepare?
Steep a green tea bag or leaves in hot water for 2-3 minutes. Add a few fresh mint leaves or a drop of mint extract, and let it infuse for another minute.
4. Chamomile Tea
Winter nights can sometimes feel longer, and chamomile tea is the perfect antidote to stress and sleeplessness. Known for its calming properties, chamomile helps relax your nerves and promotes restful sleep.
Why it’s unique?
Its mild, floral sweetness makes it a soothing bedtime tea. It’s caffeine-free, so it won’t keep you awake while providing the relaxation you need.
How to prepare?
Steep dried chamomile flowers or a tea bag in hot water for 5 minutes. Add a dash of honey if you like a touch of sweetness.
5. Hibiscus Tea
Hibiscus tea stands out for its bright red color and tangy flavor, making it a cheerful addition to gloomy winter days. It’s rich in antioxidants, which help fight oxidative stress and regulate blood pressure. This tea also has a refreshing quality that pairs well with both sweet and savory snacks.
Why it’s unique?
Its vibrant hue and tart taste feel like a splash of sunshine in your cup, making it as visually appealing as it is healthy.
How to prepare?
Steep dried hibiscus flowers in hot water for 5-7 minutes. Strain, and sweeten with honey or sugar, as hibiscus can be slightly tart.
6. Turmeric Tea (Golden Tea)
Turmeric tea, also known as golden tea, is a powerhouse of health benefits. Its anti-inflammatory properties help ease joint pain and stiffness, while its immunity-boosting qualities keep colds and flu at bay. Adding black pepper enhances the absorption of curcumin, the active compound in turmeric.
Why it’s unique?
This tea is both healing and creamy, thanks to the addition of milk. It feels like a warm, comforting tonic for your body and soul.
How to prepare?
Mix 1/2 teaspoon of turmeric powder with a pinch of black pepper in a cup of warm milk. Add a little honey for sweetness, and stir well. For a vegan option, use almond or coconut milk.
These teas not only offer health benefits but also make winter days more enjoyable with their distinct flavors and soothing warmth. Whether it’s the spicy kick of masala chai or the floral calm of chamomile, there’s a cup for every mood and moment. So, why not make these teas a part of your winter routine?