Tumeric Lemon Balm Brew

Summer is a lovely time to experiment with new recipes, and to enjoy new uses for familiar herbs. Lemon Balm, while good at 'running amok' in the garden, is also brain power super-heroine (& I have had a patch for 4 decades). Lemon Verbena, a tender perennial, which sometimes overwinters in the Northwest, and Tumeric, that golden tuber that gives curry its 'glow' are also super herbs. Combine them with a few more ingredients, & you've got a drink that will 'make your ears wiggle!' while perking up the grey matter - win/win!

A gal-friend has been making Tumeric Lemonade for a few months. She finds it really clears out her brain fog, and has grown quite fond of it. Curcumin is a 'unique antioxidant' found in Tumeric tubers, and the benefits include:

• Supports cognitive function, and overall brain health 
• Anti-inflammatory, it promotes a healthy response to inflammation
• Eases aches and pains
• Supports Cardiovascular function (reducing inflammation)
• Promotes healthy Mood balance 
• Promotes skin elasticity

Lemon Balm, Melissa officinalis, an herb in the Mint family, has long been known as a 'tonic

herb,' which can be consumed daily, for optimal health. Like its cousin Rosemary, it is high in antioxidants, many of which also enhance brain function! 

• Calms the mind (the essential oil is great for this, or a cup of tea!)
• Promotes restful sleep (good for both children and adults)
• Promotes skin elasticity, healthy aging (can be used topically)
• Boosts mood and alertness 
• Sharpens the mind and enhances cognitive ability 
• Protects brain cells (anitioxidant: Eugenol)
• Contains several powerful antioxidants
• Supports and protects the liver 
• Balances blood sugar and reduces insulin resistance

Lemon Verbena, Aloysia citrodora, is another high antioxidant lemony herb.

• Anti-inflammatory, helpful in reducing sore muscles and following exercise
• Stress reduction
• Anti-spasmotic, Digestive aide
• Rejuvenate skin
• Reduces muscle damage following exercise
• Antioxidant, boosts immune system

My recipe: Combine a handful of fresh Lemon balm with a few sprigs of lemon verbena in a quart jar, and cover with boiling water. Add one to two Tbsp local honey, cap, and step overnight in the fridge.
Grate two Tbsp fresh turmeric into a small bowl., and sprinkle with fresh ground pepper. Cover with the juice of one lemon, one lime, and 1/2 a ruby grapefruit or orange. Cover and refrigerate.
In the morning combine the two and shake. Pour 4-6 oz into a pretty glass or cup, add 1/4 Cup sparkling water or Kombucha and enjoy.