Combine the water, tea leaves, anise, cardamom, cinnamon in a large pot and bring to a boil.
Once boiling, add a pinch of baking soda. Continue to boil for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. The tea should begin to turn pink.
Remove from heat, then slowly pour in the cold water, stirring to incorporate and intensify the color.
Strain the tea concentrate and return to a large pot or saucepan.
Add the milk, half and half and sugar, bring to a simmer (bubbles start to appear) then immediately remove from heat.
Pour the tea into cups and garnish with pistachios or almonds if you desire!