This potent herbal concoction combines the powerful properties of cloves, turmeric, ginger, and garlic—ingredients renowned for their health benefits. Soaking these herbs in water or dry gin can extract their active compounds, creating a potent tonic that can be used for various health purposes. Here’s how to prepare this herbal soak and the benefits you can expect from it.
Ingredients
- A handful of whole cloves
- 1 large piece of turmeric root (or 1 tablespoon turmeric powder)
- 1 large piece of ginger root
- 3-4 cloves of garlic
- Water or dry gin, sufficient to cover all ingredients
Benefits
- Cloves: Rich in antioxidants and known for their antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties.
- Turmeric: Contains curcumin, a bioactive compound with strong anti-inflammatory and antioxidant benefits.
- Ginger: Helps in digestion and has anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, great for pain relief.
- Garlic: Known for its immune-boosting effects and its ability to fight infection and lower blood pressure.
Preparation
- Clean and Prepare Ingredients:
- Thoroughly wash the turmeric and ginger roots. Peel them if preferred, though it’s not necessary. Slice them into thin pieces to increase the surface area for better extraction.
- Peel the garlic cloves.
- Keep the cloves whole.
- Combine Ingredients:
- Place all the ingredients in a clean glass jar large enough to hold them and the soaking liquid.
- Add Soaking Liquid:
- Pour enough water or dry gin over the ingredients to completely submerge them. The choice between water and gin depends on your preference and intended use. Gin, being a strong alcohol, can extract the active compounds more effectively and acts as a preservative.
- Let It Soak:
- Seal the jar tightly and store it in a cool, dark place for three days. This allows time for the active ingredients to infuse into the liquid.
- Strain and Store:
- After three days, strain the liquid through a fine mesh sieve or cheesecloth into another clean jar or bottle. Discard the solid residues.
Usage
- Dosage: Consume a small shot (about 1-2 tablespoons) of the soak daily. If you find the taste too strong, you can dilute it with water or add it to a beverage.
- Storage: Keep the strained tonic in the refrigerator. If prepared with dry gin, it will last longer due to the preservative properties of alcohol.
Cautions
- Medical Conditions: Individuals with certain health conditions or those taking medication should consult with a healthcare provider before consuming, especially due to the potent nature of the ingredients and the use of alcohol.
- Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Not recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding women without prior medical consultation.
This herbal tonic is a powerful way to harness the health benefits of these four incredible ingredients. Whether you choose to soak them in water for a milder tonic or in gin for a stronger preservation, you’re set to enjoy a natural boost to your health. And when you see the benefits, you’ll indeed be thanking with a bottle of malt!
