Winter is only a few weeks away, although somedays it feels like it has already arrived! This chill has got me thinking about what I can drink to not only warm me up but also add to the nutrient density of my diet to support overall immunity and wellbeing.
If you are a lover of warm drinks in winter, here are a few I can’t go past and I hope you enjoy them too xo
Rosehip Tea
Rosehip is a natural source of Vitamin C, folate, Vitamin B3, Vitamin A, Vitamin E, magnesium, zinc and copper amongst others. Due to its high content of polyphenolic compounds rosehip has antioxidant effects in the body helping to protect against oxidative stress and supports the immune system. You will often find rosehip in a blend with other tea varieties such as lemongrass, ginger and elderberry, making it the perfect immune tonic. As the name suggests it has a floral flavour so is great when looking for something light and refreshing.
Licorice Root tea
Licorice has quite a polarising taste – you either love it or loathe it! If you sit in the love camp, licorice root tea can make for a yummy pick me up and better still, can help to satisfy sugar cravings. It can be a particular helpful drink to have post lunch when many of us experience sweet cravings. Licorice root has also been traditionally used to assist fatigue states because there is suggestion it positively supports cortisol production. If you do have high blood pressure or take blood pressure medication speak to a health care professional before consuming licorice products to assess its suitability for you.
Spiced Honey Immune Tea
Honey and lemon tea in warm water is a classic immunity go-to, which I am a fan of but like to spice this tea up a little and turn it into a more potent immune tonic. Some of my favourite additions include:
Pinch black pepper – helps to increase the absorption of curcumin (active constituent of turmeric) and is warming.
Pinch ground cinnamon – source of antioxidants and traditionally used to improve circulation.
Freshly grated ginger root – source of antioxidants and helps to relieve digestive upset.
Pinch cloves – traditionally associated with energy and increased circulation and used for their warming properties.
Serves 1
Ingredients
½ tbsp. fresh turmeric root, grated or 2 tsp. ground turmeric
1 tbsp. raw honey + extra to sweeten, of needed
2 tbsp. fresh lemon juice
½ tbsp. fresh ginger root, grated or 2 tsp. ginger ground
pinch black pepper
pinch cinnamon, ground
punch cloves, ground
1 tsp. coconut oil
1.5 cups boiling water
Method
In a tall heatproof glass or mug, add turmeric, honey, lemon, ginger, pepper, cinnamon, cloves and coconut oil, mix well. Add boiling water and mix well. Consume.
Soups
If wanting to turn a warming drink into more of a satisfying snack, opting for a veggie, bone broth or miso soup can be a nice option. Additionally, if you have leftover veggie soup or similar, a small cup of this can also be enjoyed.
Chocolate Chai Spiced Macadamia Milk
If looking for more of a creamy drink, this is a sweet and warming treat sure to satisfy.
Serves 1
Ingredients
1 cup macadamia or other plant-based milk
1 cinnamon stick or pinch of cinnamon
1-2 fresh dates, pip removed, finely chopped
½ tbsp. cacao or cocoa or a few squares dark chocolate chopped
pinch cardamon, ground
pinch nutmeg, ground
pinch cloves, ground
pinch cinnamon, ground
pinch ginger, ground
Method
Add all ingredients to a small saucepan, bring to a gentle boil and simmer until warmed through. Remove the cinnamon stick and using a stick blender, blend the mixture until smooth and date has broken down.
Pour into a mug and dust with extra cacao/cocoa or grated dark chocolate and serve immediately.
