MAGGIE O'MEARA
Adding an immunity-boosting tonic to your morning will give you a refreshing and anti-inflammatory zing to your day. Our bodies are very complex systems, and at the beginning of the day, the digestive system needs to be revved up. Using invigorating ingredients to aid in your immunity will only benefit your body, and even give you a sense of routine in the early hours of the day. India is a country known for its use of plants, herbs, and spices to treat ailments and ward off disease. Using this integrative approach by incorporating a morning tonic into your life can maintain your health and wellness.
This Morning Immunity Tonic contains coconut water to rehydrate your body after a night of sleep. Coconut water contains nutrients as well as the electrolytes potassium, magnesium, and sodium to give your body a tropical re-hydration. Lemon contains a healthy dose of vitamin C to protect your body from cell damage. Ginger and turmeric are well known for their health benefits in anti-inflammatory properties. Honey will add some sweetness to this potent tonic and is also high in nutrients and anti-inflammatory properties. Choose raw and local honey when possible to increase these benefits. Cayenne or cinnamon will add some spiciness as well as regulate blood sugar. Lastly, while black pepper seems to be a weird ingredient, it is essential in this recipe. Black pepper is a compound needed for your body to absorb turmeric effectively. Both of these ingredients together reduce inflammation and improve digestion.
Morning Immunity Tonic - Serves 2
- 1 cup water
- 1 cup coconut water
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 1 tsp of fresh grated or powdered ginger root
- 1 tsp of fresh grated or powder turmeric root
- 1 tbs raw honey
- Pinch of cayenne or cinnamon
- Pinch of fresh black
- Ice cubes
Directions:
- Place all ingredients except into a cocktail shaker, and shake until honey has dissolved, about 10-20 seconds.
- Pour tonic through the cocktail strainer into two glasses. Top with ice cubes and serve cold.
