Healing Hot Toddy (Alcohol-Free) - Inspired Edibles (2024)

Andnow that we haveentered the true season of giving and receiving, Iwanted to offerup this natural homebrew to help soothe and supportthe discomfort associated with these symptoms.

The ingredients selected for this beveragecontain natural anti-inflammatory,antibacterial and thermogenic properties.

Here isa snapshot of how the elements come together to helpsupport healing:

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Fluids:We all know about the importance of drinking plenty of fluids when we have a cold but here’s why: fluids help replace waterlost from fever and respiratory tract evaporation and can also assist in loosening mucus build-up and alleviating nasal congestion.

Proper hydration can alsominimize the chances ofillness setting in by preventing the formation of small cracks in nasal membrane where virus can enter. This is particularly important during the winter months when artificial heating dries our skin. Aim for seven cups of fluid per day and consider warm beverages including: lemon water, soothing herbal teas, soups, and warming stews.

Ginger:Ginger has been revered for centuries in Asia for itsgorgeous aroma andimpressive array ofmedicinalbenefits. Ginger contains potent anti-inflammatory properties called gingerols that can help inhibit and tame inflammatory processes in the body that often take hold during times of illness.

Ginger also contains natural warming properties that help support blood circulation and promote mild sweating. These propertiesalso have the comforting effect ofwarming our chilled bodies.

Lemon: As acitrus,lemon offersone of the best dietary sources of vitamin C, a potent antioxidant that has been shown to reduce the duration of cold symptoms in both adults and children.

Vitamin C is also important during times of physical and emotional stress not only as an immune builder but also because the adrenal glands (the glands that are responsible for releasing stress hormones) require a steady supply of this nutrient to function properly. This is agood time to stock up on vitamin C rich foods including: citrus fruit, red bell pepper, broccoli, kiwi and strawberries.

Honey: Honey not only tastes delicious, particularly in the company of lemon, but it is also hygroscopic in nature meaning that it absorbs water. This is a helpful property when it comes to treating ailments like the common cold becausehoney can help bring moisture to tissues that are dried out fromrepetitive coughing. Both lemon and honey also contain antibacterial properties that helpcleanse the body ofinfection-causing bacteria.

Juniper Berries: Juniper berries are probably best knownforgivinggin it’s unique flavour, but these berries are also creditedwith a number of medicinal benefits. The oil found inside the juniper berry is said to actas a natural decongestant, helping to dilate bronchial tubes andmove excessive mucusfrom the respiratory tract. Juniper berriesalso havenatural antibacterial properties – similar to lemon and honey –thathelp combat infection. While more research is necessary, the health benefits of these fragrant little berries are definitely worth keeping an eye on. CAUTION: juniper berriesare not recommendedduring pregnancy nor forindividuals with a history ofkidney/liver ailments –be sure toconsult your health care practitioner prior to use.

Chili Pepper: Hot peppers have a thermogenic effect on the body – meaning they have the ability to raise our body core temperature and stimulate metabolism. Spicy foods – especially those containing capsaicin like chilis, also help stimulate the production of endorphins in the body – those feel good neurotransmitters – that help contribute to a general sense of wellbeing (this may be one reason why some of us find spicy foods so addictive…!).