There are so many beneficial beverages in Ayurveda that it is difficult to choose the best ayurvedic health drink. Ayurveda is not a one-size-fits all system. This is part of what makes it such a versatile, beautiful, and powerful system. In fact, Ayurveda teaches that in order to be an effective practitioner you must understand the nature of the person, the nature of the imbalance, and the nature of the treatment.
In preparation for this article I did an informal poll of my colleagues, asking them what they considered to be the best ayurvedic health drink. The answers ranged from ginger tea to golden milk to ashwagandha milk to fresh spring water. Clearly, there is so one simple right answer. However, the ayurvedic classic CCF (cumin, coriander, fennel) tea came up several times. And I have to agree that CCF tea ranks up there as one of the best ayurvedic health drinks.
What is CCF Tea?
CCF tea is a staple in ayurvedic cleanses. And yet, it is gentle enough to enjoy daily. This mildly cleansing, soothing tea is made of cumin, coriander, and fennel seeds. Here is a base recipe. Also, read on for additions to this simple recipe.
CCF Tea Recipe
Directions
- 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
- 1 teaspoon coriander seeds
- 1 teaspoon fennel seeds
- 4 cups filtered water
Directions
- Pour the water into a small to medium sized pot and bring to a boil.
- Add the cumin, coriander, and fennel seeds.
- Turn heat to medium and keep the liquid at a rolling boil until you have approximately 3 cups of liquid left.
- Strain liquid through a wire mesh strainer or cheesecloth and sip warm or at room temperature.
- Drink 1-3 cups daily.
Why is CCF Tea the Best Ayurvedic Health Drink?
As I mentioned earlier, CCF tea is gentle yet detoxifying. It enkindles the agni (digestive fire) without aggravating Pitta dosha. Furthermore, this lovely beverage is tridoshic, meaning that it is suitable for all three doshas. Let’s take a closer look at the ingredients in CCF tea to better understand what makes it so great.
Cumin
Cumin is a wonderful cooking spice and is found in cuisines the world over. It is mildly warming and therefore most suited to Vata and Kapha doshas. However, cumin will most likely not cause a Pitta imbalance if used in moderation. Furthermore, the coriander and fennel in CCF tea will soothe any Pitta excess (2).
Coriander
Coriander has a cool energy and is purifying. It is particularly balancing for Pitta dosha and Pitta-type digestive disturbances such as burning indigestion and hyperacidity. This aromatic seed is also helpful for soothing skin conditions such as hives and rashes (1).
Fennel
Fennel has a mildly cool energy and an overall nourishing effect. It is particularly helpful for soothing gas and other Vata and Pitta digestive imbalances. Like ginger, fennel can also be helpful in easing mild nausea (1).
CCF Tea Additions
CCF tea is great enjoyed on its own. Also, you can add other herbs and spices to have a targeted effect. Here are a few ideas:
Add a teaspoon of fresh grated ginger or a pinch of dried ginger for a warming effect and to stimulate digestion.
Add a teaspoon of turmeric for a touch of additional warmth and color. Plus, turmeric has myriad health benefits.
Add a teaspoon of dried mint leaves. (Add at the very end to steep for a minutes rather than boil.) Mint adds a bright flavor and is great for digestion as well as for cooling excess Pitta dosha.
Additional Ayurvedic Health Drinks
In addition to CCF tea, you may want to consider Chyawanprash. Chyawanprash is a ancient Ayurveda superfood jam that has been used for millennia to nourish the body and mind and build ojas. Learn more about Chyawanprash health benefits here.
References
(1) Dass, V. (2013). Ayurvedic herbology: East & West. Twin Lakes, WI: Lotus Press.
(2) Gernady, L. CCF: Ayurveda’s miracle tea. Kripalu. Retrieved from https://kripalu.org/resources/ccf-ayurveda-s-miracle-tea
Greta Kent-Stoll is a Certified Ayurvedic Practitioner (NAMA), as well as a writer, editor, and Certified Iyengar Yoga Teacher. Her Ayurveda practice is based in Asheville, North Carolina and she is the co-owner of Iyengar Yoga Asheville.
Reviewed by Dr. Jayant Lokhande, MD (Botanical Drugs), MBA (Biotechnology)
