Spicy chai decoction

Decoctions are similar to infusions (teas), but rather than seeping herbs in boiling water, the herbs are boiled for 10-20 minutes, which aids the extraction of their active healing constituents. Decoctions are a great way to make medicine from the bark, wood or roots and rhizomes of plants, such as cinnamon bark and ginger. This spicy chai decoction not only tastes delicious but has warming carminative herbs, great for alleviating bloating and soothing a sore tummy.

Ingredients

2 whole cinnamon quills
2 star anise
2-3 cloves
2 whole black peppercorns
3 cardamom pods
1/2 teaspoon fennel seeds
2 cm cube of fresh ginger (grated)
4 cups of filtered water

Method

Add all whole spices to a pot, cover with water and bring to the boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 20-30 minutes. Fill 1/3 to 1/2 cup with the hot decoction (depending on how spicy and concentrated you like it) and either top with boiling water or warm milk and honey.

This decoction can be stored in the fridge and used within 3 days.