Immunity boosting tonic
Now more than ever, we should be very focussed at building our immune systems and keeping ourselves well. Our immune system is markedly compromised during high stress so it really is worth prioritising diet above many things at such times. This can often mean that a usually 'good' diet needs even more attention.
This Immunity Boosting Tonic will supercharge your nutritional intake. Whether you're feeling unwell or stressed, or even if you need digestive support or simply and internal hug of comfort, it's a great tonic to have at hand.
Where you can, look to include ginger, turmeric, apple cider vinegar and lemon in your daily diet. Ginger and turmeric in particular are grounding spices renowned for their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant powers. It is said that turmeric is possibly one of the most effective supplements in existence.
It may pay to double this recipe and consider freezing it in portions. Afterall, aren't most of us becoming expert best batch cookers these days?
Pro tip: to up the ante even further on the immunity and brain health front, look into Lion's Mane medicinal mushrooms; you can stir a teaspoon into your daily juice or tonic. Just stay away from imported mushroom products from China unless you're totally sure they are safe - these can contain dangerously high levels of lead and other toxins. You can buy Lions Mane from right here in the Yarra Valley, Victoria via Forest Super Foods.
Ingredients: Makes 4 cups
Warning: it's spicy, so halve or remove the chilli if you can't take the heat.
1 head garlic
2 lemons
4 long chillies (a mix of red and green - or reduce, as above)
1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
1 tablespoon fresh turmeric, grated (or 1/2 teaspoon ground)
Pinch cayenne pepper
2 tablespoons honey
2 tablespoons raw apple cider vinegar
1 litre water
Roughly chop the garlic, chilli and lemons (leave skin on garlic and peel on lemon).
Put all ingredients in a large saucepan, squeezing the lemon as you toss it in.
Simmer gently with the lid on for 20 minutes. Sieve the liquid.
Sip warm in small cups whenever you need a spicy pick up. Or, store in the fridge for 2-3 days, heating gently on the stove until just warm. Freezer friendly.
