By Herbalist Stori Michel
What Are Herbal Mocktails?
Herbal mocktails are non-alcoholic beverages that incorporate fresh or dried herbs to add flavors and enhance the drink’s health benefits. These drinks are usually made by infusing herbs into syrups, teas, or garnishes, and can be combined with fruits, spices, and other botanicals for a refreshing, herbal twist on traditional cocktails.
Unlike regular mocktails, which rely heavily on sugary fruit juices and sodas, herbal mocktails are designed to tap into the natural benefits of plants. The herbs you choose to include not only offer unique flavors but also deliver medicinal properties, from reducing stress to supporting heart health. These beverages can be enjoyed at any time of day, whether you’re unwinding after a long day or seeking some fun and tasty drinks.
The Health Benefits of choosing herbs
Herbs have been used for centuries in traditional medicine for their therapeutic effects. Many of them possess antioxidants, anti-inflammatory benefits, and other nutrients that can help improve your health. Here are some of my favorite herbs to use in mocktails!!
1. Lemon Balm (Melissa officinalis) – For Relaxation and Stress Relief
Lemon balm is a slightly sweet and bitter herb belonging to the mint family, and it’s known for its calming and mood enhancing effects. Often used in herbal teas, lemon balm is an excellent addition to mocktails aimed at promoting relaxation.
Health Benefits of Lemon Balm:
- Reduce Anxiety: Lemon balm is known to reduce anxiety and promote calmness. It has a mild sedative effect, which makes it ideal for those looking to unwind without resorting to alcohol.
- Supports Digestion: Lemon balm can help relieve indigestion, bloating, and nausea, making it a great herb to include in mocktails if you’re looking to aid digestion.
- Improves Sleep: If you enjoy a nice and relaxing drink before bed, lemon balm can help promote restful sleep due to its mild sedative properties.
2. Hawthorn (Crataegus monogyna) – For Heart Health and Circulation
Hawthorn is often referred to as the “heart herb” because of its cardiovascular benefits. The leaves, flowers, and berries are all used for medicinal purposes, making it a wonderful ingredient for herbal mocktails.
Health Benefits of Hawthorn:
- Supports Heart Health: Hawthorn is known for its affinity to the heart and improved circulation. It can help lower blood pressure, regulate cholesterol, and even reduce the risk of heart disease.
- Improves Circulation: If you’re looking for an herb that supports overall cardiovascular health, hawthorn is a great choice. It’s often used to improve blood flow and enhance oxygen delivery to the body’s tissues.
- Reduces Anxiety and Stress: Besides its heart healthy properties, hawthorn can also act as a mild sedative, helping to reduce stress and tension.
3. Codonopsis (Codonopsis pilosula) – For Energy and Immune Support
Codonopsis is a root herb used in traditional Chinese medicine to boost energy, improve stamina, and enhance immune function. It’s a fantastic addition to mocktails, particularly for those looking for an energizing and grounding drink.
Health Benefits of Codonopsis:
- Boosts Energy: Codonopsis can be known for its adaptogenic properties, meaning it helps the body adapt to stress and increases overall vitality. It’s a wonderful herb to include in a mocktail when you need an energy boost without the jitters from caffeine.
- Supports the Immune System: Codonopsis helps to strengthen the immune system, making it an excellent choice for maintaining your health, especially during cold and flu season.
- Improves Digestion: Codonopsis is often used to improve digestive function and enhance the body’s absorption of nutrients.
Why Choose Herbal Mocktails?
Herbal mocktails offer a lot of benefits, Not only do they provide unique flavors that are both refreshing and satisfying, but they also offer a wide range of health benefits.With herbs like lemon balm, hawthorn, and codonopsis in your mocktails, you can enjoy a delicious beverage that supports your well being, whether you’re looking to relax, boost energy, or improve heart health.
If you have any questions please email
Stori.michael@clinicalherbalism.com
Join me for a fun hands on evening creating your own herbal mocktails!
References:
- “Western Botanical Medicine” by Christa Sanadios
- https://www.nationalgeographic.com/premium/article/mocktails-nonalcoholic-drinks-health-culture
- https://www.webmd.com/diet/health-benefits-lemon-balm
- https://www.webmd.com/vitamins/ai/ingredientmono-527/hawthorn
- https://www.webmd.com/vitamins/ai/ingredientmono-527/hawthorn
- Notes compiled by Stori Michael
