A warm cup of Kashayam, also known as Kashaya, is a time‑honored Indian herbal drink that soothes the body, supports immunity, and brings comfort during seasonal changes.
Quick Look: Kashayam (Indian Herbal Drink)
- ✅ Recipe Name: Kashayam (Indian Herbal Drink)
- 🕒 Ready In: 10 minutes
- 👪 Serves: 1-2
- 🍽 Calories: 60 per serving (estimated)
- 🥣 Main Ingredients: Kashaya powder, water, jaggery, oatmilk
- 📖 Dietary Info: Vegan; gluten-free; caffeine-free; immunity-boosting
- 👌 Difficulty: Easy - simmer, strain, and sip
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For me, kashayam is deeply personal. Growing up, my mother would make a fresh pot whenever we had a cold or a cough.
The moment it started simmering, the kitchen would fill with that familiar, comforting, slightly bitter, and full-of-care herbal aroma.
Even today, one sip instantly takes me back to my hometown and those simple moments of being looked after.
Whenever I feel a cold coming on or need something soothing, this kashayam helps me feel better, naturally. It's not just a drink it's warmth, tradition, and memory in a cup.
This easy kashayam recipe uses ready-made kashaya powder, making it quick enough for busy mornings while still staying true to tradition.
Why You'll Love This Kashayam
- Ready in under 10 minutes
- Naturally caffeine-free and vegan
- Helps boost immunity naturally, especially during seasonal changes
- Perfect for cold weather, sore throat days, or immunity support
- Customizable with jaggery, brown sugar, or herbs
Ingredients Notes
- Kashaya Powder: Use a good-quality herbal kashaya powder made with traditional spices and herbs. Buy Kashaya Powder
- Water: Fresh, filtered water gives the cleanest flavor.
- Sweetener (optional): Jaggery powder or sugar balances the bitterness. Avoid honey if serving very hot; add once warm.
- Optional add-ins: My turmeric blend, fresh ginger, tulsi leaves, or a pinch of black pepper can enhance flavor and benefits.
See the recipe card for a list of ingredients and quantities, plus recipe instructions. You can find the recipe card at the bottom of this post.
Variations
- Plain Kashayam (No Milk, No Sweetener): Enjoy kashayam as-is, without adding milk or jaggery. This is the most traditional way and highlights the natural herbal flavors.
- Ginger Kashayam: Add freshly crushed ginger while boiling.
- Tulsi Kashayam: Simmer with 2-3 tulsi leaves.
- Pepper Kashayam: Add a pinch of crushed black peppercorns for extra warmth.
How to Make Kashayam Using Kashaya Powder
- Step 1: Add ¾ cup of water to a saucepan.
- Step 2: Stir in 1 tablespoon kashaya powder and jaggery. (add ¼ teaspoon of turmeric blend, optional)
- Step 3: Bring to a gentle boil. Simmer on low heat for 5-7 minutes, until the aroma deepens.
- Step 4: Add oat milk and again keep it on low flame for 2-3 minutes.
- Step 5: Turn off the heat and strain the kashayam into a cup. Serve warm.
It is normal to filter out the powder after it steeps in hot water. I prefer to drink it without filtering.
Tips for the Best Kashayam
- Do not overboil; excessive boiling can make it bitter.
- Always simmer on low heat for balanced flavor.
- Adjust powder quantity based on strength preference.
- Drink warm for best results.
Storage & Make-Ahead Tips
- Kashayam tastes best when freshly prepared.
- You may store strained kashayam in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.
- Reheat gently; do not microwave on high.
- Store kashaya powder in an airtight container away from moisture.
Serving Suggestions
You can drink this hot beverage any time of the day, depending on your comfort and routine.
Enjoy aromatic kashaya:
- First thing in the morning
- Midday as a soothing herbal drink
- In the evening instead of tea or coffee
- During cold or flu season
- On rainy days as a comforting herbal drink
- After heavy meals for a soothing finish
Yes, kashayam can be consumed daily in moderation. Many people drink it regularly during seasonal changes or colder months. If you are new to kashayam, start with a small quantity and see how your body responds.
Kashaya refers to a traditional Ayurvedic herbal decoction made by boiling herbs or spices in water. It is typically strong, aromatic, and slightly bitter.
Yes, kashayam is commonly consumed on an empty stomach, especially in the morning, for better absorption and effectiveness. If you have a sensitive stomach, you can have it after a light snack.
More Beverage Recipes
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And let me know in the comments what you loved about it.
📖 Recipe
Kashayam Recipe For Cold and Cough
Equipment
Process Shot
Check above for step-by-step pictures (most of my recipes include pictures)
Ingredients
- ¾ cup water
- 1 tablespoon kashaya powder
- ¼ teaspoon turmeric blend - optional
- 1 tablespoon jaggery - or use sugar
- ¼ cup oat milk - unsweetened
Instructions
- Add ¾ cup of water to a saucepan.¾ cup water
- Stir in 1 tablespoon kashaya powder and jaggery. (add ¼ teaspoon of turmeric blend, optional)1 tablespoon kashaya powder, ¼ teaspoon turmeric blend, 1 tablespoon jaggery
- Bring to a gentle boil.
- Simmer on low heat for 5-7 minutes, until the aroma deepens.
- Add oat milk and again keep it on low flame for 2-3 minutes.¼ cup oat milk
- Turn off the heat and strain the kashayam into a cup. Serve warm.
- It is normal to filter out the powder after it steeps in hot water. I prefer to drink it without filtering.
Notes
- Do not overboil; excessive boiling can make it bitter.
- Always simmer on low heat for balanced flavor.
- Adjust powder quantity based on strength preference.
- Drink warm for the best results.
YOUR OWN NOTES
Nutrition
Nutritional information is an estimation only.
Disclaimer
This post is only for information purposes. It should not be considered for treatment or cure of any disease. My family and I consumed Kashayam for many years. And found it beneficial for boosting overall health. If you are sensitive, please check with your doctor.
Padmanabh Kakathkar says
Your Kashaya powder is wonderful. Giving very good results in my health. I am regularly drinking this Kashaya once a day since 4 months. Thank you for uploading this recipe.
P B Kakathkar,
Pune
Uma Raghupathi says
Thank you for feedback 🙏🏻
Natalie @ Obsessive Cooking Disorder says
very interesting and learned a new ingredient!
Anjali says
Love all the combos of this mix!
Dallas Piana says
Seems like a lot of work!
Uma Raghupathi says
Actually not! Try it is simple and worthy:)
mamatriesblog says
I always make my girls "yellow tea" when they have a cough. This sounds way better than what I usually make and I love the idea of having the spices all ready ahead of time!
Uma Raghupathi says
Thanks you!
Gin says
I've never had a spiced milk like this! It sounds delicious, and I love the health benefits.
Amy Katz from Veggies Save The Day says
This combination of spices sounds delicious!
nicoleanndawson says
I've never tried anything like this before, looks like a fun combination of spices.
Strength and Sunshine says
Definitely a unique change up from coffee! I'll have to give it a try Uma!
Uma Raghupathi says
Yes Rebecca! Thank:)
Maggie Unzueta says
Pinned this for later. I love finding and trying new foods.