Cheers To The Hot Summer We Have All Been Craving

Cheers to the hot summer we have all be craving.

By Aga Wajda-Plytta - Herbologie

Summer in Edmonton is filled with outdoor activities, late nights enjoying patio weather and soaking up all those sun-filled days. Our palettes crave fresh flavours and our bodies long for nourishment; awakening from the depths of winter.

The following recipes will use a variety of botanicals, showcasing their diverse uses, unique yet familiar flavours and purposeful benefits.

ENERGIZING HASKAP

1 C milk (any preference) ½ C Kefir 1 C frozen ROSY FARMS haskaps ½ banana 1 Tbsp pumpkin seeds 1 Tbsp hemp hearts 2-3 dates 2 tsp HERBOLOGIE endurance blend Ice *to preference

In a blender, add all ingredients. Blend on medium-high for 40-50 seconds (if too runny add more ice). Enjoy before an outdoor activity, workout session or take with you to sip while strolling one of Edmonton’s outdoor markets.

A little bit about the botanicals:

Rosy Farms Haskap berries are considered to be a “superfood” due to their rich nutritional makeup of antioxidants and anti-inflammatories. Compared to many other berries, haskaps are superior in their total antioxidant content where much of their therapeutic benefits come from anthocyanins, a type of phenol that gives the haskap its characteristic colour and flavour.

Herbologie Endurance Blend features cordyceps, a mushroom known to act as a mild stimulant and fight stress and fatigue. This natural increase in energy levels is supported by the ability of this mushroom to aid the supply of ATP in the body, your source of energy during exertion. Complemented with ginger and mesquite for a subtle flavour enhancement and warming properties for the body.

SUMMER SPIRITS

1 tsp maple syrup 1 tsp apple cider vinegar 1 tsp fresh lemon juice 1.5 oz STRATHCONA SPIRITS gin 0.5 oz HERBOLOGIE edible flower simple syrup 6 drops Echinacea tincture Large square ice cube Topped off with carbonated water Garnish HERBOLOGIE Edible Flowers

Combine and stir vigorously maple syrup + apple cider vinegar + lemon juice + gin + simple syrup + tincture. Add ice and top off with carbonated water. Garnish with edible flowers.

A little bit about the botanicals:

Herbologie Edible Flowers showcases dried blossoms from red clover, calendula and dandelion that are Alberta grown and wild harvested. Red Clover has a gentle influence on the lymphatic system, playing a key role in immune function; dandelion’s long history of use in optimizing digestion, aids the breakdown of fat and cholesterol; and calendula complements this mix in both those functions & adds beautiful colour to any meal.

Echinacea is suggested to be a top immune-benefiting botanical and is a great addition to your garden. Easily grown, hardy, strong and vigorous, extensive studies indicate this botanical influences immune function, raising the body’s natural resistance. The root, leaf, flowers or seeds can be used as tea or tincture and may be taken at first sight of a cold.

With the use of any botanicals, always seek the advice of a competent health care professional for your specific health concerns. If you have a medical condition or are pregnant please consult your primary health care provider before use.