Wow, it has been so long since I last posted. I am now working with the conservation of our incredible native landscapes and seem to be quite absorbed in it! It is quite the fight in a place where the Government seems to be pushing their own growth agenda, with little community engagement or respect to our amazing environment. Anyway, that is all a bit depressing, so instead I will post an uplifting few posts and an uplifting health tonic!

This health tonic was demonstrated by the fantastic Sophie Edwards, as part of GULP (Growing and Utilising Local Produce) back in the sustainable living festival and I have been making versions of it ever since…

Tumeric is amazing and has great anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties and is wonderful for settling an upset tummy. Interestingly, when served with black pepper the  bioavailability of curcumin – its active ingredient – is enhanced 1000 times.

 

It can also be very easily grown- it does prefer a sunny spot and plenty of water and really thrives in our wet season.

 So here it is-

1 tsp powdered turmeric or 2 Tbsp fresh grated turmeric
3 Tbsp fresh grated ginger
A handful of freshly cut lemongrass (2 Tbsp of dry lemongrass tea would work too)
1 tsp pepper corns
2 Litres boiling water

Place all ingredients in a large bowl or glass jug. Pour over boiling water and allow to seep until cool. You will end up with a rich tonic that you can then store in the fridge. To serve, add around 2 shots of tonic to 1 cup cold water or mineral water and squeeze in some fresh lemon or lime.

Also found on the recipe page here