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Making healthier lifestyle choices doesn’t mean missing out on your favorite cocktail. Herbal cocktails are a fun and flavorful way to enjoy your favorite drink while taking advantage of the health benefits they may provide. In fact, you may already be adding wellness ingredients into your beverage and not even realize it. We will go over 3 groups of herbs that are most commonly used in cocktails and finish by sharing some of our favorite herbal cocktail recipes with you.
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Bitters
Bitters are commonly used in cocktails to create or accentuate the flavor. Historically, these herbs were made into a special preparation and consumed after dinner to support healthy digestion. Some popular bitter herbs are wormwood, anise, and fennel.
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Fruit
Fresh fruit such as blueberry, cranberry, and elderberry not only add beautiful color and natural sweetness, but they also provide antioxidant and immune support.Â
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Aromatics
Aromatic garnishes such as mint, basil, and rosemary invigorate our senses with their strong flavor and smell while providing a sense of clarity or relaxation.
Ingredient pairing possibilities are endless, so you won't get bored with the same drink. Plus, swapping ingredients depending on your wellness needs helps you stay on top of your evolving journey to health. Cocktails can be made with or without alcohol so everyone can enjoy the fun and flavorful drinks.
Herbal Cocktail RecipesÂ
Adding a Wise Woman Herbals preparation to your cocktail is a quick and convenient way to incorporate some healthy flare to your next drink without the added sugar or calories. Below are some of our favorite herbal recipes that use our Blueberry, Cranberry, and Elderberry Syrups. If you prefer to enjoy your drink as a “mocktail” simply follow the same recipe and omit the alcohol.
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Blueberry FizzÂ
- Club soda, 2.5oz
- Vodka, 1.5oz
- Blueberry Syrup 1 teaspoon
- Lemon juice 1/2 teaspoon
- Simple Syrup 1/2-1 teaspoon to taste (See recipe below)
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Elderberry Sage Cocktail
- Vodka 2oz
- Elderberry Syrup 1 teaspoon
- Lime juice 1/2 teaspoon
- Sage leaf, crushed 2-3 leaves
- Simple Syrup 1 teaspoon
Cranberry Joy
- Vodka 2oz
- Club Soda 4oz
- Cranberry Syrup 1 teaspoon
- Simple Syrup 1 teaspoon (optional)
- Lime 1-2 wedges
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Simple Syrup
- 1 cup water
- 1 cup sugar
Heat water and add granulated white table sugar. Stir until dissolved and allow to cool. Jar and keep in fridge for up to 3 months.
Herb Infused Simple Syrup
- 1 cup water
- 1 cup herb of choice (lavender, rose petals, rosehips, mint, etc.)
- 1 cup sugar
Heat water and add herb of choice. Remove from heat, cover and steep for 5 minutes. Strain herb material out then add sugar to the water. Stir until dissolved. Jar and keep in fridge for up to 3 months.
Cheers!
Dr. Yasamine Farshad, ND
Kris Vaughan, CHÂ