Winter is upon us, and what better way to embrace the season than by indulging in delicious mocktails that not only warm your spirits but also align with the principles of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM)? Whether you are participating in dry January or not, these delicious winter warmers make a nice alternative to alcohol. Below are three Winter Wellness Mocktails that go beyond taste, offering a blend of flavours and health benefits rooted in TCM wisdom.

Ginger Citrus Bliss

Ingredients:
- 1 cup hot water
- 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1/2 lemon, juiced
- Sliced orange for garnish

Health Benefits:
- Ginger: Known for its warming properties in TCM, ginger invigorates the spleen and stomach, promoting digestion and circulation while dispelling cold and dampness common in winter.

- Honey: With its sweet nature, honey supports the lungs and alleviates dryness, a prevalent winter woe. It enhances the therapeutic effects of other ingredients.

- Citrus: Lemon and orange contribute vitamin C, promoting immune function and providing energetic warmth, a key concept in TCM.

Herbal Hibiscus Delight

Ingredients:
- 1 hibiscus tea bag
- 1 cup hot water
- 1 tablespoon dried goji berries
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup
- Fresh mint leaves for garnish

Health Benefits:
- Hibiscus: Valued in TCM for cooling the body and nourishing yin, hibiscus helps balance excess heat and dryness associated with winter.

- Goji Berries: TCM considers these red gems a kidney tonic, enriching the blood and providing a burst of energy, aligning with the concept of longevity.

- Maple Syrup: Sweet and warming, maple syrup supports the spleen and stomach, offering a gentle energy boost without overwhelming digestion.

Cinnamon Apple Elixir

Ingredients:
- 1 cup apple cider
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 1 star anise
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- Apple slices for garnish

Health Benefits:
- Cinnamon: Believed to invigorate yang energy and dispel cold in TCM, cinnamon promotes circulation and supports digestion.

- Star Anise: With a warm nature, it strengthens the spleen and dispels cold, making it ideal for winter beverages.

- Apple: TCM sees apples as cooling and moistening, countering the dryness often experienced in winter while supporting lung health.

These winter mocktails aren't just delightful; they're also packed with TCM-inspired health benefits. So, toast to your well-being and savour the season with these holistic concoctions!