We are about to share one of our favorite little kitchen secrets, the kind of thing that usually stays in the family. When we brew tea at home, we almost never use plain water. Instead, we reach for something we call Golden Medicinal Water.
It is a deeply spiced, golden-hued water that we simmer slowly all day. Used in place of plain water, it turns an ordinary cup of tea into something warm, layered, and a little bit special. Once you try it, plain water feels like a missed opportunity.
What it is and why we love it
The idea is simple. Rather than brewing your herbs in ordinary water, you first make a gently spiced water full of ingredients that have been treasured in traditional kitchens for generations. Turmeric and ginger give it warmth and color. Cardamom, cinnamon, clove, and star anise bring depth and fragrance.
You then use this golden water anywhere you would normally use plain water for tea. It is that easy, and the difference is lovely.
The recipe
This makes a big batch on purpose. It takes all day to simmer, so you may as well make plenty. Here is what goes in.
- Fresh turmeric root, chopped
- Fresh ginger root, chopped
- Whole cloves
- Green cardamom pods
- Black cardamom pods
- Saigon cinnamon
- Star anise
- A large pot of water
There is no need to be fussy about exact amounts. Use a generous hand with the turmeric and ginger, and a lighter touch with the cloves and star anise, since those are bold. You can always adjust to your taste next time.
How to make it
- Add the chopped turmeric, chopped ginger, cloves, green and black cardamom pods, Saigon cinnamon, and star anise to a large pot of water.
- Bring the pot up to a boil.
- Once it is boiling, lower the heat all the way down to a gentle simmer.
- Let it simmer on low all day. The long, slow cook is what draws out all that color and character.
- When it is done, turn off the heat and let it cool a little.
- Filter out all the solids, and keep the golden liquid.
That golden liquid is your medicinal water. Store it in the refrigerator, where it keeps well for several days, and use it in place of plain water whenever you brew a cup of tea. If you would like a refresher on brewing itself, our guide on how to make herbal tea pairs perfectly with this.
Make it your own
Like most family recipes, this one is meant to be adjusted. Some days we make it stronger, some days lighter. If you love a particular spice, lean into it. If black cardamom is hard to find, the tea is still wonderful without it.
If you would like herbs to brew alongside your golden water, browse our herb collection, and feel free to reach out if you want a hand putting a blend together. We would be glad to help.
From our kitchen to yours, we hope this little secret brings some extra warmth to your cup.
A note on wellness: These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. Our products and articles are for general wellness and educational purposes and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Always talk with a qualified healthcare provider before using herbal products, especially if you are pregnant, nursing, taking medication, or managing a health condition.