There are some evenings that I just can't sleep. It may be the stress of the day or those aching  joints that just don't let you rest. This is a recipe I have added to my evening routine. I do believe it has helped me relax and sleep more soundly.

This drink is made with turmeric, something most of us don't eat everyday. Turmeric has many health benefits it aids in digestion, immune function, liver health and even possible protection from cancer.

Ingredients

• 2 cups of milk or coconut milk (Co-Op price)
  
• 1 teaspoon Turmeric (Co-Op price)
  
• ½ teaspoon Cinnamon (Co-Op price)
• 1 teaspoon raw honey or maple syrup or to taste
• Pinch of black pepper (increases absorption)
• Tiny piece of fresh, peeled ginger root or ¼ tsp ginger powder
• Pinch of cayenne pepper (optional)

Instructions

1. Blend all ingredients
2. Pour into a small sauce pan and heat for 3-5 minutes over medium heat until hot but not boiling.
3. Drink immediately

Sources
Wellness Mama
Dr Weils Healthy Kitchen

High blood pressure runs in my family, so I do watch what I eat, avoid salt and try to keep my weight under control. I'm not one to take medicine if I can control my pressure with food.

I came across this recipe when I was researching ideas on what I could add to help keep my pressure under control. I enjoy tea in the afternoon as a treat and this is perfect, I can get my treat and medicine in one dose. The Co-Op through Country Life Natural Foods offers great prices on many organic and specialty food items. The Retail store also offers great prices on many Bulk Herbs. 

Ingredients:
1/2 c. water
1/2 c. milk any type but whole is creamy
1/2 tsp. ginger ground (Co-Op price)
1 tsp. cinnamon (Co-Op price)
1 1/2 tsp. black tea
1 tsp cardamon ( I use 3-5 pods crushed) (Co-Op price)
2 tsp. honey (it does not need much sweetening) (Co-Op price)

Directions:
Put all the ingredients into a small sauce pan and bring to a boil.
Strain out the tea and cardamon pods

This is so tasty that you could serve it to your guests, and look at all the health benefits!

Health benefits
Cinnamon

• Cinnamon may help treat Type 2 diabetes.
• Cinnamon can lower your bad cholesterol (or LDL).
• Cinnamon has anti-fungal, antibacterial, and even antiviral properties.
• Cinnamon can help treat the symptoms of Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s.
• Cinnamon has anti-inflammatory properties.

Ginger

• Ginger has anti-inflammatory properties that compare to  non-steroidal (NSAIDs).
• Shows promise as a cancer and diabetes fighter.
• Great for nausea, motion sickness, and digestive upset.

Cardamon

• Positive results in counteracting colorectal cancer.
• Lower heartbeat, controlled rhythm, and controlled hypertension.
• Control of Cholesterol
• Protection against gastrointestinal diseases.
• Control the microbes that regularly cause food poisoning.
• Improved Blood Circulation

Sources:
OrganicFacts.net
Herbwisdom.com

Coconut is a medium chain fatty acid which is easily digested and converted to energy. Start your day off right by adding this delicious coconut milk coffee creamer to  your morning cup of joe and watch your metabolism and energy levels soar!
Recipe from Dr. Axe

Serves: 4-8
Ingredients:

• 1 can coconut milk
• 1-2 T. vanilla extract
  
• 2 T. coconut oil, melted
  
• Honey or vanilla stevia to taste
• Sea salt to taste, optional

Directions:

1. Combine all ingredients in a blender and mix until well combined. Use in coffee as desired. Refrigerate it will be thick, but will melt into the hot coffee.

January is the month we all start watching our weight and what we eat. My thought is make it easy. Pineapples are in season right now and this is the perfect drink to fill you up and keep your diet on track.
Recipe from Simple Vegan Blog

Serves: 4 cups
Ingredients

• 1½ cups water (375 ml)
• 1 cup chopped pineapple (250 g)
• 1 cucumber (peel if not organic)
• 1 lemon (peeled)
• 12 dates
  

Instructions
Place all the ingredients in a blender and blend until smooth.

Note: You can change up the fruit, or add extra spices. Some suggestions are 1 tsp cinnamon or grated ginger. Instead of the dates use stevia, maple or agave syrup, sugar, molasses or your favorite sweetener.