Water gets boring, and with the growing research on the harmful effects of alcohol, I’ve been on a mission to craft mocktails that actually excite and heal. This G&T Wellness Brew is not only an anti-inflammatory powerhouse (thanks to the ginger and turmeric), but it is also supportive for the immune system. Echinacea (in the lemon ginger echinacea juice) activates immune cells (macrophages and natural killer cells) and enhances white blood cell production. Studies have shown that echinacea may reduce the duration and severity of cold symptoms. The juice also adds a nice sweetness to the mocktail. I get the juice at Outpost, our local health food store.

And don’t forget the black pepper! Black pepper enhances the bioavailability of turmeric by up to 2000%.

So if you have a tickle in your throat, some inflammation to tame, (ie. swollen, bloated, or maybe your joints hurt), or just need a drink upgrade from water or an alternative to alcohol, try my healing G&T.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups Lemon Ginger Echinacea juice
• 1/2 cup Jake’s Strong Ginger Juice (could also use a packet of Trader Joe’s ginger juice mix or 1 inch piece of fresh ginger, peeled and cut into chunks or discs)
• Juice of 1/2 lemon
• 1/2 inch piece of fresh turmeric, peeled and cut into discs
• Few cracks of black pepper
• 1 TBSP apple cider vinegar (optional for additional tang and gut support)
• 1 TBSP raw honey (optional for additional sweetness and immune support)
• 1-2 dropperfuls of Batch CBD Calm tincture (optional for additional bliss and calm)

Instructions:

In a small saucepan, combine the lemon ginger echinacea juice, ginger juice (or fresh ginger), lemon, turmeric, black pepper, and apple cider vinegar. Bring to a boil and then reduce to low and let simmer for 10 minutes. Taste and whisk in honey if you prefer it sweeter.

Sift out the chunks of turmeric (and ginger if you used fresh ginger). Pour into a mason jar and store in fridge for up to a week.

Drink hot or cold. If drinking cold, consider adding some seltzer for some fizz. Add 1-2 dropperfuls of CBD for enhanced relaxation. Cheers!

Editor’s Note: The information in this article is intended for your educational use only. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health practitioners with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition and before undertaking any diet, supplement, fitness, or other health program.