Summer Wellness Tonic

Creating your own tonic is not as daunting as some may believe. It's easy and a great way to take care of your body - whether you feel a cold coming on, or you want to stay on top of your health and prevent any illness.The ingredients for this tonic are amazingly beneficial. Pau d'arco is immunity boosting and especially great for women's health. There's even evidence that it can prevent cancer. Yerba mate is naturally energizing, and organic honey offers an abundance of nutrients and antioxidants. It is important to note, that while one serving will be beneficial, to maximize the benefits these ingredients provide, tonics should be consumed regularly.

INGREDIENTS

• 1/2 cup pau d'arco bark

• 1/2 cup yerba mate

• 1/4 cup cardamom pods cracked

• 1 cup lemon juice

• 1/2 honey (we recommend Bonny Doon Farm, or Aptos Apiaries)

• approximately 4 inch piece of ginger (if you prefer it spicier add more ginger)

• several servings of any herbal tincture. If you already feel sick try echinacea, if you are being preventative try ginseng.

DIRECTIONS

Combine all ingredients with 6 cups of purified water into a large pot and bring to a light simmer. Then lower the heat and cook for about two minutes.Turn off the heat and let it cool. It should come out to a light carmel color. Strain the ingredients, and refrigerate the tonic. Enjoy a cup over ice, and add more lemon and honey to your desired sweetness. Its a refreshing tonic that anyone can enjoy, and your body will thank you!

This recipe makes: approximately 6 servings