Calming Tea: Aromatic Citrus Chai Tea for Stress and Anxiety (Recipe + Video)

By Chef Nick Wisman

Citrus fruits are one of the most popular sources of dietary flavonoids. Flavonoids are rich in antioxidants and can help your body ward off everyday toxins. Studies have shown that eating flavonoid-rich foods may safeguard against depression and boost your mood.

Cinnamon has been used as an ingredient throughout history, dating back as far as Ancient Egypt. It’s high in cinnamaldehyde, which has been shown to reduce the inflammatory response in the body.

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Cloves contain a compound called eugenol, which has been shown to act as a natural antioxidant. The aroma of cloves helps to eliminate exhaustion and fatigue as it soothes the senses and relieves stress from the body.

Use organically grown citrus fruit with untreated, pesticide-free peels, and wash and dry them well before beginning.

Recipe

Servings: 8 Prep time: 5 minutes Cook time: 2 hours Total time: 2 hours and 5 minutes

Ingredients:

For Aromatics 1 each Orange zest, save the rest for juice 1 each Lemon zest, save the rest for juice 3 teaspoon Cinnamon stick 1 teaspoon Knob of fresh ginger 1 teaspoon Cardamom pods 1 teaspoon Whole cloves 1 each Used vanilla bean, or sub 1 teaspoon extract 5 cups Water

For 1 cup of tea 2 each Black tea bag 1/2 Lemon, juiced 1/2 Orange, juiced 1 tablespoon Condensed milk

Directions:

1. In a medium saucepan, place all aromatic ingredients together. Bring to a simmer over low heat. Additionally, you can place it in a slow cooker on the lowest setting. The aromatics can simmer for up to 2 hours, adding additional water as needed.
2. To make aromatic chai tea, strain a cup of aromatic liquid into a mug. Squeeze as much citrus juice as desired. Steep the black tea bag for 2 minutes and then remove. Add condensed milk.
3. Enjoy!