Medicinal Tea Recipe below…

As a Doctor of Natural Medicine, I use food, herbs and lifestyle changes in the mind, body, heart & spirit to both treat and prevent health and wellbeing issues. Medicinal teas have long been a part of my practice. It is important to listen to your body in order to make sure an occasional medicinal tea is the right fit for you and avoid drinking large amounts or using it as a substitute for receiving medical treatment. I am a big believer in the integrative approach where all different forms of care and prevention are considered and weighed. As with using any supplement it is important to work with a natural health practitioner in order to determine the right amount and usage for YOUR body.

Here is one of my medicinal tea recipes. I personally use this to support elimination (detox), reduce inflammation, support immune system and to promote optimal health.

The ingredients are as follows –

Basil:

Basil (and Holy Basil) is often used in Natural Medicine as well as Ayurvedic medicine to help with respiratory issues, the common cold, nasal inflammation, stomach disorders, digestion and to improve the quality of sleep.

Turmeric:

This is one of the most commonly used herbs in Ayurvedic medicine and has been researched extensively. ‘Turmeric and especially its most active compound curcumin have many scientifically-proven health benefits, such as the potential to prevent heart disease, Alzheimer’s and cancer. It’s a potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant and may also help improve symptoms of depression and arthritis’ – Healthline. Since turmeric has a poor absorption rate it is important to take it with fat (coconut oil for example) and also black pepper increases the absorption as well.

Oregano:

Oregano has been used for thousands of years. According to the Herb Society, oregano has been ‘referred to as the “the prince of herbs” and was first used by the ancient Greek physician Hippocrates’. It has been commonly used for its rich antioxidant, antibacterial and antiviral properties.

Cilantro:

Cilantro helps with your bodies elimination process and facilitates detoxing, especially of heavy metals. It has been known to help both heart and brain health, fight infection and improve digestion and gut health. Cilantro has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties and has been used by some natural health practitioners in reducing blood sugar levels in diabetes patients.

Ginger:

Ginger was first used medicinally in tonics in both China and India for over 5,000 years. It has been used as an antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-nausea, anticancer agent as well as for killing gut bacteria which is why ginger is commonly consumed by the Japanese alongside of raw fish consumption, not only to cleanse the palate but to also kill any bacteria from the raw fish. Ginger has also been widely used as a preventative measure for illness and disease.

Black Pepper:

Black pepper has been used in Ayurvedic medicine for thousands of years for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. It has also been known to promote healthy circulation.

Ingredients:

Black pepper – 1/16 tsp

Ginger Root – 1/2 inch

Cilantro – 1 teaspoon of chopped fresh cilantro leaves

Oregano – 1 teaspoon of chopped fresh oregano leaves

Basil – 1 heaping tablespoon of chopped fresh basil leaves

Turmeric Root – 1/4 inch

Instructions:

Place all of the ingredients into a pot, add 2 cups of filtered water and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to a simmer for 2 minutes. Remove from heat and allow to steep for 5 minutes, then serve. To aid with absorption stir in ½ teaspoon of organic coconut oil. For additional benefit you can also add 1 teaspoon of Manuka Honey.