Serves 1
Hot toddies have long been used to dispel chills, coughs and colds. Santa Cruz, California-based herbalist Jeanine Pollak created this recipe using warming, relaxing and antiviral ingredients.
• 3 tablespoons grated fresh gingerroot (Zingiber officinale)
• 3 tablespoons dried elderflowers (Sambucus canadensis)
• 1 cup boiling water
• 1/8 to 1/4 cup brandy, optional
• Juice of 1 small lemon
• 2 tablespoons honey
1. Place the gingerroot and elder flowers in a pan and pour the boiling water over the herbs. Stir, cover, and allow to steep for 10 minutes.
2. Strain the tea, and pour it into a large mug. Stir in the brandy, if desired, and the lemon juice and honey. Sip slowly.
Source: Pollak, Jeanine. Healing Tonics. Pownal, Vermont: Storey Books, 2000.
