The dawa which is (medicine) in Swahili is a drink that is usually made to heal or help in curing the cold. It is a concoction that is made with ginger, lemon and hot water and can be alcoholic or like a mocktail. It was supposedly invented at the Carnivore
restaurant in the Langata suburb of Nairobi, Kenya.
1 Cup Water
1/8 Teaspoon Ground Turmeric
1 Tablespoon Honey
2 Lemons
1/2 Ginger
METHOD
Add water in a pan, add ginger and boil until bubbling
Remove the ginger from the water and pour into a glass jar
Add the honey, and freshly squeezed lemon
Stir to combine everything
Enjoy
KENYAN DAWA DRINK
Prep time: 05 Minutes
Cook time: 10 Minutes
Total time: 15 Minutes
Yield: 1 Glass
Ingredients
- 1 Cup Water
- 1/8 Teaspoon Teaspoon Ground Turmeric
- 1 Tablespoon Honey
- 2 Lemons
- 1/2 Ginger
Cooking Directions
- Add water in a pan, add ginger and boil until bubbling
- Remove the ginger from the water and pour into a glass jar
- Add the honey, and freshly squeezed lemon
- Stir to combine everything
- Enjoy
Kenyan Dawa drink – Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is the Kenyan Dawa drink?
“Dawa” means “medicine” in Swahili. This popular Kenyan drink is made from hot water, honey, lemon, and ginger, and sometimes includes garlic or clove. It’s widely used as a natural remedy for colds, flu, or sore throat and is also enjoyed as a soothing wellness beverage.
2. Is Dawa the same as the cocktail served in Kenyan restaurants?
Not quite. While this version is a non-alcoholic home remedy, some restaurants serve a cocktail version with vodka, honey, and lime. This write-up refers to the traditional wellness drink, not the cocktail.
3. What are the benefits of Dawa?
Kenyan Dawa is rich in vitamin C, antioxidants, and anti-inflammatory compounds. It may help, Soothe sore throats, ease congestion, support immunity and aid digestion
4. Can it be taken daily?
Yes, in moderate amounts. It’s especially helpful during cold weather, flu season, or when you feel under the weather. Too much honey or ginger may irritate some sensitive stomachs.
5. Can it be served cold?
Yes. While traditionally served hot, you can chill it for a refreshing wellness tonic.
6. Is it safe for children or during pregnancy?
Generally yes, if all ingredients are fresh and in small amounts. For children under 1 year old, avoid honey. Pregnant women should use ginger in moderation and consult their doctor.
Nutrition Card – per 1 cup (240 ml)
| Nutrient | Amount | % Daily Value (DV) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Calories | 60–90 kcal | — | Mostly from honey |
| Carbohydrates | 16–22 g | 6–8% | Simple sugars from honey |
| Sugars | 15–20 g | — | All natural sugars |
| Fiber | 0–1 g | ~1% | From fresh ginger, if not strained |
| Protein | 0 g | — | Not a protein source |
| Fat | 0 g | — | No fat content |
| Vitamin C | 15–25 mg | 20–35% | From lemon juice |
| Potassium | 50–80 mg | ~2% | From lemon and ginger |
| Antioxidants | High | — | Gingerol, flavonoids, etc. |
📌 Nutrition Notes:
- Excellent immunity booster and natural decongestant.
- Contains no caffeine, making it safe for most people.
- Keep honey levels moderate if monitoring sugar intake.
Dietary Compatibility & Allergy Notes
| Diet Type | Is Dawa Suitable? | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Vegan | ❌ No (contains honey) | Use agave or date syrup as an alternative |
| Vegetarian | ✅ Yes | Naturally plant-based |
| Gluten-Free | ✅ Yes | No gluten-containing ingredients |
| Paleo | ✅ Yes | All ingredients are paleo-friendly |
| Keto/Low-Carb | ⚠️ No (high natural sugar) | Too much honey for keto; reduce or use alternative |
| Diabetic Friendly | ⚠️ In moderation | Can spike blood sugar; use minimal honey or stevia |
| Nut-Free | ✅ Yes | No nut ingredients |
| Lactose-Free | ✅ Yes | No dairy present |
📌 Dietary Notes:
- For a vegan or low-sugar version, replace honey with stevia, agave nectar, or date syrup.
- Great as a hydration and recovery drink during colds or fatigue.
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