Kripalu Recipes: Ayurvedic Elixirs for Your Dosha

Vata Elixir: Spiced Milk

This nourishing, soothing spiced milk is ideal for the vata seasons of fall and winter. 

1 cup organic milk (or your favorite nondairy alternative)
¼ tsp turmeric powder
¼ tsp ginger powder
Small pinch cinnamon powder
Small pinch cardamom powder
Small pinch black pepper

In a small saucepan, bring milk and spices to a low boil for five minutes. Add a dash of nutmeg at night to support sleep, ½ teaspoon of ghee to relieve constipation, or one teaspoon maple syrup after milk has already boiled if you’re craving something sweeter. Avoid spiced milk when fighting a cold or the flu.

Pitta Elixir: Digestive Tea

This tea will keep your digestive fire balanced, and give you more energy for your day.

½ tsp cumin seeds
½ tsp coriander seeds
½ tsp fennel seeds

In a small saucepan, combine two cups of water with all of the seeds. Cover and bring mixture to a low boil for 10 minutes. Strain into a mug and enjoy.

Kapha Elixir: Lemon Ginger Honey Nectar

A little of this energy-stoking elixir goes a long way, so experiment with drinking one ounce about 15–30 minutes before your biggest meal of the day. 

¼ cup fresh-squeezed lemon juice
¼ cup raw honey
2 tablespoons freshly chopped ginger

In a glass, mix together the lemon juice and honey. Combine ginger and two tablespoons water in a blender and pulse until finely ground. Strain the ginger-water mixture through a fine-mesh strainer into the honey-lemon mixture. Mix well. Avoid if you have acid indigestion or ulcers.