Thai herbal drinks are not just for refreshing but also has many heath benefits, this is why they are considered part of traditional Thai medicine. It’s influenced by ancient Thai and Chinese healing practice, these kinds of drinks often seen using as medicine by village healer, elders, and sometimes monks, in believed that they could cool the body, treat illness, and balance inner energy. They used to be popular 20 years ago so you can find them at every market, or grocery store. Nowadays, they are a lot harder to find since no one in the new generation knows how to make them properly so they find another way to preserve these wonderful drinks by sometimes combining them with modern drinks like coffee, or tea to create new drinks that are refreshing, full of health benefits, and taste good. You can find these new fusion drinks in every café or coffee shops.
1. Roselle Juice (Nam Krajeab)
A ruby-red drink with sweet and slightly tart flavor, with lots of health benefits this drink is not just one of the most refreshing drinks during summer.
Health Benefits:
- Roselle is rich in Vitamin C and antioxidants
- It’s good for helping reduce both blood pressure and cholesterol
- Cools your body and eases heat-related fatigue.
Roselle Juice is normally paired with street food like Yen Ta Fo Noodles or Crispy Pork rice to balance the flavor and richness of the menus.
2. Butterfly Pea Flower Lemon Tea (Nam Anchan Manao)
A blue flower that changes color when mixed with lime juice, from blue it turns violet. To make this drink you simply just boil Dried or fresh butterfly pea flowers then add honey or sugar and finish it off with lemon or lime juice to add the sour taste to the drink.
Health Benefits:
- Improves circulation and brain function
- Supports skin and hair health
- Naturally caffeine-free, gentle on digestion
3. Chrysanthemum Tea
A golden, floral beverage that has a root from Chinese herbal medicine, chrysanthemum tea is a staple in Thai markets and temples. It’s the simplest drink to make with just water and Dried chrysanthemum flower, with light and mildly sweet flavor along with very floral fragrance.
Health Benefits:
- Cools the body and relieves heat symptoms
- Help reduce inflammation
- Supports eye health and relieves fatigue
Often found at street vendors, wet markets, and herbal shops in Bangkok’s Chinatown and served in both hot and ice depending on the weather and where you try it.
4. Pandan Leaf Drink
Pandan leaves are widely used in Thai desserts, but the drink version is soothing and aromatic, often paired with snacks. Made from boiled pandan leaves with palm sugar with Sweet, slightly nutty flavor and aromatic.
Health Benefits:
- Detoxifies and cleanses the body
- Cools internal heat
- May help improve appetite
It’s great with sticky rice desserts or as a refreshing accompaniment to spicy meals.
5. Bael Fruit Tea (Nam Matoom)
Sweet, smoky, and earthy, bael fruit tea is a traditional drink served in temples and households. Made from dried bael fruit slices steeped in hot water with caramel-like, slightly tangy flavor.
Health Benefits:
- Aids digestion and reduces bloating
- Soothes the throat
- Traditionally used as a cooling drink for “hot” body conditions.
You can find these herbal drinks at places like Floating Markets, temples, spas & resorts, or street stalls. They are 100% Natural. Thai herbal drinks aren’t just beverages they’re a cultural experience, a taste of local tradition, and a natural way to balance your body in the tropical climate. Sip one, breathe in the aroma, and you’re tasting centuries of Thai wisdom in a single glass.