MG’s Summer Hibiscus Cooler

This is a tea recipe I created which I consistently make in the summer. Here is the quick rundown on why I chose these herbs from an Ayurvedic perspective:

Hibiscus: A sweet herb with cooling properties, it is said to be Ganesh's sacred flower-- the remover of obstacles; it is also a tonic for the first and second chakras (root chakra and sacral chakra); also said to purify the heart

Licorice: Sweet and cooling; it is considered a demulcent, which means hydrating to the tissues; is said to promote contentment, calm the mind, and nurture the spirit

Rose: sweet and cooling (notice a trend?); relieves heat and soothes inflammation; the flower of love, is said to open the heart and mind

(Reference: Frawley D., Lad V. The Yoga of Herbs. Second Edition. Lotus Press; 1986.)

MG's Hibiscus Cooler:

1 tsp dried hibiscus flower

1/2 tsp dried licorice root

A pinch of dried pink roses

Place herbs at the bottom of a quart (32 oz) glass mason jar and fill to the top with filtered water. Let sit overnight, preferably outside by moonlight. It will become bright pink! In the morning, strain to drink. You can drink at room temperature or break the Ayurveda "rules" and add ice (sometimes, in the summer, some of us just need that).

If you live in Denver, I recommend Apothecary Tinctura for herbs; otherwise, a reputable place to order herbs online is Mountain Rose Herbs.

Would love to hear how this tasted and felt in your body in the comments below!