Citrus herb healing tonic

A tonic to heal body and soul

Bring the zing of late fall fruit and medicinal strength of your favorite herbs to this warming tonic.

Whether it’s the sniffles, a scratchy throat, or something a bit more existential, we could all use a healing brew from time to time. This adaptable recipe uses the fruit and herbs you have on hand—or your favorites from the produce aisle—to create a powerful concentrate to keep on hand in your fridge. Just heat the kettle and add hot water any time you need a soothing boost.

Gather your ingredients

  • 3 whole lemons and limes—any combination

  • 1 whole orange, scrubbed

  • 2 tsp ground turmeric

  • 1, 2-inch piece ginger

  • Several fresh herb spring—we like 5 sprigs of rosemary, but use your favorite flavors

  • One 32-oz CoffeeSock cotton filter, cheesecloth or mesh seive

  • Hot water and honey, for serving

Make your tonic concentrate

The core recipe produces a concentrate you can store in your refridgerator for up to one week.

  • Wash and thinly slice the lemons, limes, orange and ginger. No need to peel any of it.

  • Place it all of the fruit—set the ginger aside for now—in a medium pot with 8 cups of water and the turmeric.

  • Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.

  • Remove from heat and add the ginger slices and whole herb sprigs.

  • Cover the pot and steep the ingredients together for at least 10 minutes and up to 20.

  • Strain the concentrate through your CoffeeSock filter into a mason jar or other pourable container with a lid.

  • Use immediately (see instructions below to serve) or add an airtight light and store in your fridge.

Serve your tonic

To serve and drink your tonic:

  • Add a 2 ounce pour into a mug.

  • Top with hot water from the kettle. You can dilute as much or little as you like. We typically add about 4 ounces of hot water, but you can add more concentrate or less water if you want a stronger flavor.

  • Sweeten with honey to taste.

CoffeeSock