Immunity, by Longeviteas, is a spicy rosewater chai tea with turmeric and black pepper. Like all of their teas, the Immunity recipe is crafted based on ingredients with peer-reviewed research. [1]

Immunity contains anti-inflammatories and antioxidants (cinnamon, ginger, turmeric, and black tea) as well as seven spices shown to have antimicrobial and antibacterial action (cloves, cinnamon, ginger, turmeric, nutmeg, cardamom, and black pepper). It also has one with anti-viral activity (star anise). [1]

Immunity also includes an anti-viral activity (star anise) and 3-7% of star anise is shikimic acid; the pharmaceutical base used to create the drug Tamiflu. [1]

Research

All of these spices are currently being used by the food industry because they have been shown to naturally prevent the growth of microbes, bacteria, and fungi. Cloves have been found to kill mouth bacteria and prevent cavities. Several have been found to promote digestive health by preventing the growth of colon bacteria, and inhibiting the growth of helicobacter pylori, the bacteria that causes ulcers.

While there’s no cure for the common cold, given that upper respiratory tract infections frequently begin by colonizing the mouth and throat, there is evidence that this combination of spices may stop rhinovirus from being able to multiply there. [1]

Preparation

Since this blend it mostly hard seeds and spices, it should be brewed hot (~212 degrees) and allowed to steep for as long as possible (around 6 minutes) to get the best extraction. Once you do that, sugar and milk make it a yummy chai. [1]

References

Immunity, Longeviteas