Helena’s Ginger-Turmeric Tea
Are you feeling the winds of change, the impeding darkness and blustery chill from late fall hurling into winter? Here’s a great option if you are a tea lover and want a healthy alternative as a supplemental drink and wonderful way to absorb the healing advantages of this delicious concoction.
This tea is a staple in my house during fall and winter. Warm, soothing drinks are recommended at this time of year. Herbs and warm drinks are nurturing, soothing and recommended for the darker time of year. This hot, golden to orange remedy will bring sunshine to your eyes and body as you sip it in anticipation of its ancient medicinal properties.
According to Ayurveda, ginger-turmeric tea is healing, tri-doshic and very grounding. That means it has beneficial properties for anyone who takes a sip! Just one cup per day is a great way to receive the full benefits of this medicinal elixir. Tea-time is most beneficial as a relaxation mOMent and a quiet time to honor your body.
Taste (or rasa) is a way for your palate to welcome this intoxicating and earthly tonic into your system. Over time your skin will glow from the color of the turmeric; a natural skin brightener. Plus, orange fingers you might get from handling this root are a conversation opener wherever you go!
Turmeric is at the cornerstone of traditional Indian medicine and everyday diet. Turmeric has been revered for its’ health and culinary properties for centuries. It’s a powerful antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-bacterial. It supports digestion, improves mood and has even been touted to support brain and memory function.
Ginger is an Ayurvedic and Chinese herb. Long ago ginger root was thought to aid food poisoning, nausea, and menstrual cramps. Today, we know that it also helps with circulation of bile and the breakdown of proteins, and can decrease cholesterol with its anti-inflammatory properties, which makes it a perfect after-meal treat when sipped slowly.
The constituents of this tea are known to help with cardiovascular function, immune function, respiratory function and reduces nausea associated with pregnancy
Now, let’s get to the good stuff. The recipe for this yummy immune booster is below!
Turmeric-Ginger Tea Recipe
Ingredients
· 2 index finger-length pieces (fingerlings) fresh turmeric* (peeled & chopped)
· 2 fat fingerlings fresh ginger (peeled and chopped)
· ½ tsp. coconut oil
· dash of black pepper or pippali to taste
· 32 oz water
Optional squeeze of lemon or honey if desired but not needed although on certain days its a yummy addition.
Makes 4 cups
*Fresh turmeric may be difficult to come across but can often be found in Indian herbal stores in the refrigerated section. I buy in bulk during the cooler months as it keeps well in your veggie-drawer. (If fresh is unavailable, use 1T powdered turmeric which you will need to whisk thoroughly into the mix.) I suggest you locate fresh turmeric - the most delicious and holistic way to make this easy concoction and well worth the effort.
Use the back of a large spoon to peel and then roughly chop the roots into smaller pieces, add chopped turmeric and ginger in your pot with the water, simmer for 10 minutes.
Add a ½ tsp or more of coconut oil to sweeten and assist as a carrier for curcumin with black pepper to your liking to help absorb the nutritional benefits of this tea.
Strain this golden elixir into your favorite mug. Add lemon or honey if desired
Gingerly sip and let the ingredients percolate and permeate your body’s ecosystem!
Enjoy!
~With Illumination and Love~
Helena
