Trikatu means 3-most-essential-spices(Black pepper–Piper nigrum, Long pepper–Piper longum, Ginger–Zingiber officinalis). These are dried and ground. It is best for cold. In addition can be used during soar throat,fever. Patanjali Trikatu is best in quality and wrt to price. Every home should have this essential powder. Add 1 or 2 pinches of Trikatu in a boiling water and allow it to boil for few minutes. The taste is very strong and i would advice not to use more than 2 pinches. Drink it when lukewarm and at room temperature. For those who cannot take the strong "pepperish" taste, add sugar/cane-sugar/honey before drinking(not advised for diabetes/pregnant woman). Note: Never boil honey.