The benefits of herbs & spices in Ayurveda

Our Ayurvedic Herbal tea blends are an essential part of the Chai Walli family! Whilst not starting from a base of masala chai, these herbal teas are still based on the teachings of Ayurveda, and are very helpful in improving and maintaining your overall wellbeing. Plus, they are beautifully unique and super tasty! 

In part two of our interview with Phillipa Joy, we talk more specifically about the ingredients in our special Ayurvedic herbal blends. Phillipa is an Ayurvedic Lifestyle Consultant, Chef, Reiki Master and overall beautiful soul! If you missed the first part of our interview with her, you can read about it here.

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Chai Walli: Hi again, Phillipa! One of the reasons we were so excited to speak with you is to get your insight into our much loved Ayurvedic herbal tea blends. I’ve listed them below. We would love to know a little bit more about the ingredients from your point of view as an Ayurvedic specialist.

Skin Glow
Ingredients: Burdock Root, Gotu Kola, Hibiscus, Lotus Leaves, Rose Petals.

Phillipa Joy: Gotu kola is also know as brahmi (there are two brahmi herbs in ayurvedic medicine) or mandukapani in Sanskrit.  It has a wonderful effect on purifying the blood alongside burdock root to alleviate skin issues.  Gotu kola is also known for its anti-aging properties. The flavonoids in this herb act as circulatory stimulants that develop blood vessels in the skin, increasing the rate of keratinisation of the skin, which helps to strengthen the outer protective layers of the skin. Often skin issues (but not always) have heat as the root cause of aggravation/imbalance.  Rose is an incredible medicine for cooling the skin and the heart.  Lotus leaves are great for building blood.  So by drinking this blend you are not only cleansing and purifying the body from within, which will have you glowing without but you are restoring your strength and health at the same time.  I call that a win!

Relax & Unwind
Ingredients: Ashwagandha, Brahmi, Lavender, Nutmeg, Tulsi, Rosehip

 
PJ:  Ashwaghanda is becoming very popular in general wellness circles for very good reason – this wonder herb has been used in Ayurvedic medicine for thousands of years and has a profound ability as an adoptogenic to calm or uplift the nervous system, dependant on the body’s needs. It promotes sleep and increases vitality. Brahmi (this is the second brahmi referred, bacopa monniera) is also profound in its’ ability to rejuvenate and sedate the nervous system whilst also cooling the body and improving concentration.  Nutmeg is a wonderful sedative for the nervous system.  Tulsi, otherwise known as holy basil, is a carminative, clears congestion and calms the digestion so this tea blend is a power house of relaxing and uplifting herbs for not only drinking to chilli out at the end of the day but to keep you cool, calm, clear and focussed any time of day.

Digestion
Ingredients: Chamomile, Coriander Seeds, Cumin Seeds, Fennel Seeds

PJ: This classic kitchen blend of spices - cumin, fennel and coriander - paired with chamomile is a winner for easing any kind of tummy troubles.  If you are feeling acidic and heated, fennel and coriander will cool you down; if you feel gassy and bloated, cumin and coriander will appease. The chamomile has a relaxing effect to calm a tight stomach due to overeating, eating too quickly or feelings of stress.

What insight!! If you NEED these products in your life, click on the individual images to be taken to their product page. You can also purchase all three blends in our Ayurvedic Remedial Tea Pack. Here's to a healthier you! 

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CW: That was amazing – thank you! Herbs and spices play such an important role in Ayurveda. To finish, could you let us know some specific herbs & spices that we should be introducing into our lives to combat or assist in certain health situations?

PJ: Absolutely! If you are feeling cold and spacey, choose spices that are warming and grounding such as ginger, cinnamon and nutmeg.
If you feel fiery and agitated, choose spices that have the ability to keep you cool such as mint, tulsi, fennel, licorice and cardamom.
Lastly, if you feel dull, cold, heavy and sluggish, choose spices that help you warm up, lighten and brighten such as ginger, black pepper, turmeric and chilli.

It all comes back to understanding that like increases like and that by introducing opposing qualities you can bring balance.

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What a joy that was! You can find out more about Phillipa by checking out