Turmeric Tonic

Versions of this Turmeric Tonic are on countless wellness café menus—versions of what we in Āyurveda know to be kitchen medicine. As we move into pitta season in the Northern hemisphere, turmeric can be an excellent herbal ally. Its bitter taste makes it cleansing to the blood. Its warming properties support circulation (important for temperature regulation); plus, it’s a renowned herb for reducing inflammation and boosting agni and immunity. Watch out as you get deeper into summer, as too much turmeric can be aggravating if there is excess heat (or pitta).

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Makes: 4 cups

Ingredients (for 4 cups)

• 2 tablespoons loose leaf mint tea, or 3 mint tea bags
• 4 cups hot water
• 2 teaspoons ground turmeric
• 2 teaspoon ground ginger
• Juice of ½ a lemon
• Heaping tablespoon raw honey

Steps

1. Fill a quart mason jar with hot water.
2. Add the loose tea or tea bags.
3. Cover and let steep for about 10 minutes.
4. Then remove the tea bags or strain out the herbs.
5. Stir in the turmeric, honey, lemon juice, and honey.
6. Pour into a tea cup and sip throughout the day or morning.
7. Keep a spoon nearby as the powders may settle to the bottom.
8. This tea doesn’t store well.
9. You’ll want to make it fresh every day.
10. If you want to start small and try it before you commit to 4 cups, make a half batch.