Adaptogenic Cranberry Juice

'Tis the season... for stress? Whether you're rocking around the Christmas tree or hiding from carolers, the holidays can do a number on your nervous system. Try this super simple Adaptogenic Cranberry Juice recipe. It's holiday flavor with an herbal punch to help you stay grounded and jolly, no matter what the holidays throw your way.

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Adaptogenic Cranberry Juice

Yield: 4

Author: Susan

Turn a holiday favorite into a nourishing drink that supports your overtaxed nervous system during the holidays.

Ingredients

• 1 Bag Organic Cranberries
• 1 Quart Filtered Water
• 1 Inch Ginger Root
• 1 Cup Dried Hawthorn Berries
• 1/2 Cup Ashwagandha Root, Cut and Sifted
• 1 Cup Chopped Pineapple (Optional for added sweetness)
• 1 or 2 Cinnamon Sticks (Optional for flavor)

Instructions

1. Pour water into slow cooker. You can use a pot on the stove, but I like the freedom a slow cooker gives me.
2. Chop ginger coarsely and add to pot.
3. Rinse cranberries and get rid of any that aren't plump and red. Add to pot.
4. Add dried hawthorn berries, chopped pineapple, and ashwagandha root.
5. Cover and set to low for 2 to 4 hours. The cranberries will need to come to a boil to "pop." You'll see a split in the side and the water will begin to take on that signature red color of cranberry juice.
6. Check on your juice every half hour or so and stir. Taste often, and remove from heat when liquid is a beautiful red and the taste is intense.
7. Strain and allow to cool to room temperature.
8. Squeeze juice of fresh lemon into juice and stir.
9. Add honey or other sweetener to taste. I like to add about a half cup of honey, but I like things pretty tart.
10. Use within 4 days or freeze for longer storage.

Notes

Here are some variations you could try:

Substitute elderberries to make this immune boosting.

Add orange juice for sweetness.

Add juice to sparkling water for a bubbly holiday drink.

Use this as a cocktail base if you enjoy a little holiday cheer!