Kashayam| Kasayam| Kadha

Kashayam, also known as Kasayam, is an ancient Ayurvedic herbal concoction that has been trusted for generations as a natural remedy for common ailments such as cough, cold, fever, throat pain, and indigestion. This traditional home remedy is made by boiling a combination of spices and medicinal herbs in water to extract their therapeutic properties. The resulting decoction, though simple to prepare, is a powerhouse of immunity-boosting and healing benefits.

The specific ingredients used in Kashayam can vary depending on the ailment being addressed and individual preferences. Commonly used spices and herbs include turmeric, ginger, black pepper, cumin, coriander seeds, tulsi (holy basil), ajwain (carom seeds), cinnamon, and cloves. These ingredients are known for their anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and digestive properties. For instance, ginger and turmeric are excellent for soothing sore throats and reducing inflammation, while black pepper and cumin help improve digestion and relieve respiratory issues.

Kashayam is traditionally bitter and dark in color, which is characteristic of its potent ingredients. However, to make it more palatable, natural sweeteners such as jaggery, honey, or panakarkandu (palm sugar candy) can be added. These not only improve the taste but also enhance the drink’s health benefits. For example, honey is known for its soothing properties and is particularly effective for cough relief.

This herbal drink is best consumed warm and is often taken first thing in the morning or before bedtime for maximum effectiveness. Kashayam is not just a remedy but also a preventive drink, helping to strengthen immunity and maintain overall well-being, especially during seasonal changes or periods of stress.

Despite its medicinal origins, Kashayam has found a place in modern households as a natural and effective alternative to over-the-counter medications for minor ailments. It is easy to customize based on the ingredients available in your pantry, making it a versatile and accessible remedy for all.

Check out the step-by-step guide below to make this traditional Kashayam recipe at home and experience the healing benefits of this time-tested Ayurvedic drink.

Ingredients-

Pepper-1 tsp

Cumin-1 tsp

Cinnamon-3 sticks

Cloves-4-6 nos

Dry ginger powder-1 tsp (you can add fresh ginger too)

Turmeric powder-1 tsp

Coriander seeds-1 Tbsp

Tulsi leaves -4-6 leaves

Jaggery/panakarkandu-1 tsp

Lemon juice-1/2 lemon (optional)

Water-3 cups

Recipe Video

Method

👉Add cinnamon, cloves,pepper,cumin seeds and coriander seeds in motor and pestle and pound them coarsely.

👉In a sauce pan add 3 cups water and bring to a boil .Add turmeric powder,dry ginger powder,tulsi leaves,and ground powder  and mix well .

👉Let the mixture boil for 5-7 mins or until it reduces to half it's quantity.

👉Add jaggery mix well and switch off the gas.

👉Strain the kashayam.

👉Add lemon juice mix well and drink warm about 1/4-1/2 cup of  kashayam 2 times a week.

Preparation Time-15 mins

Serves-4

Note-

✍️The quantity of the ingredients can be altered according to your  taste preference.

✍️Instead of dry ginger powder you can use fresh ginger too.

✍️You can add cardamom pods too if you want.

✍️You can avoid jaggery completely if you are okay with the bitter taste of the kashayam.😬

✍️Instead of jaggery you can pana karkandu or palm sugar candy crystals.

✍️Adding lemon juice is optional too.