What is kadha?

Kadha is a warm drink made by simmering spices and herbs in water. The name covers the same idea as kashayam or kwath, the Ayurvedic word for a water decoction: you boil the spices down so the water carries their warmth and flavour. It's usually sipped hot, often in cooler weather.

The spices it usually carries

Most kadhas start from the kitchen. Dry ginger (sunth), black pepper, tulsi (holy basil), cinnamon and cloves are common, sometimes with turmeric or a little jaggery or honey to round it off. In Ayurveda these are warming spices, and a kadha is often described as a way to bring that warmth into the body. The mix isn't fixed. Every household tends to have its own.

How it's made

In the traditional method the spices go into water and simmer gently until the liquid reduces, so what's left is concentrated and aromatic. It's then strained and sipped warm. If honey is added, it goes in once the drink has cooled a little, since Ayurveda holds that honey shouldn't be heated.

Its warming, comforting place

For generations, kadha has been a cold-weather comfort across India, the cup people make when the air turns sharp or a chill sets in. Some research suggests a few of its spices, like ginger and tulsi, may have a soothing or supportive role, though the studies are small and varied. Mostly, though, it's loved for the simple warmth of a hot, spiced cup.

If a warming drink appeals when the weather cools, you might simmer a small cup and see how it sits with you. The mix is yours to shape.