Stay cozy when the lights go out or the temperature drops with my winter tonic recipe.
Full of warming and healthy ingredients, this ‘hug in a mug’ will boost morale (and your immune system) when you need it most.
It’s a quick, comforting recipe that will add a little extra warmth during emergency situations or wintry nights.
Warming Tonic to Support Your Health This Winter
When winter is in full swing, this winter tonic can help keep you warm and support your immune system.
It’s ready in just 15 minutes and is made with common, shelf-stable pantry staples known for their warming, anti-inflammatory and immune boosting properties:
- Ginger: May ease inflammation and encourage circulation, perfect for cold mornings.
- Turmeric: Renowned for its anti-inflammatory benefits to give your defenses a boost.
- Cinnamon: Brings cozy warmth while supporting overall wellness.
- Cloves: Packed with antioxidants to help fend off seasonal threats.
- Black Peppercorns: Lightly crushed for better absorption of turmeric’s active ingredients.
- Lemon: Bursting with vitamin C to help fight off winter germs.
- Honey: Adds gentle sweetness and antibacterial properties.
Easy Winter Tonic Recipe – Ready in Under 15 Minutes

Ingredients (Makes 2-4 servings):
- 2 inches fresh ginger root (peeled and sliced or grated)
- 1 inch fresh turmeric root (or 1/2 tsp turmeric powder)
- 1 cinnamon stick (or 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon)
- 4-5 whole cloves (or 1/4 tsp ground cloves)
- 1/2 tsp black peppercorns (lightly crushed)
- 1 lemon (juiced)
- 1 tablespoon honey (or maple syrup, optional)
- 3 cups water
Optional Twists:
- A splash of whisky or spiced rum for a touch of indulgence.
- A dash of apple cider vinegar for a tangy, probiotic kick.
- A pinch of cayenne to really turn the heat up!
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Begin by peeling and grating (or slicing) the ginger and turmeric.
If you are using whole peppercorns, lightly crush those and juice your lemon so it is ready to add at the end.

Step 2: Simmer the Ingredients
In a small pot, add water, ginger, turmeric, cinnamon, cloves and peppercorns.

Bring the mixture to a boil and then gently simmer for 10 minutes.

Step 3: Strain the Liquid
Take the pot off the heat and strain the liquid through a fine sieve to remove the solids – these can be added to the compost or chicken bucket.

Step 4: Add Lemon and Sweetener
Stir in the lemon juice and honey (or maple syrup) to taste while the tonic is still warm.

Step 5: Serve & Enjoy!
Pour into mugs and add one of the optional twists above if desired. You can also get fancy by adding a slice of lemon or a sprinkle of cinnamon as garnish.
I tend to pop mine straight into a mug and enjoy it while it is still nice and warm.
Just the tonic you need on a cold winters day!


Equipment
Ingredients
- 2 inches fresh ginger root peeled and sliced or grated
- 1 inch fresh turmeric root or 1/2 tsp turmeric powder
- 1 cinnamon stick or 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 4-5 whole cloves or 1/4 tsp ground cloves
- 1/2 tsp black peppercorns lightly crushed
- 1 lemon juiced
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup, optional
- 3 cups water
Instructions
Prepare the Ingredients
- Begin by peeling and grating (or slicing) the ginger and turmeric. If you are using whole peppercorns, lightly crush those and juice your lemon so it is ready to add at the end.
Simmer the Ingredients
- In a small pot, add water, ginger, turmeric, cinnamon, cloves, and peppercorns. Bring the mixture to a boil and then gently simmer for 10 minutes.
Strain the Liquid
- Take the pot off the heat and strain the liquid through a fine sieve to remove the solids. You can compost or discard the solids.
Add Lemon and Sweetener
- Stir in the lemon juice and honey (or maple syrup) to taste while the tonic is still warm.
Serve & Enjoy!
- Pour into mugs and add one of the optional twists above if desired. For an extra touch, garnish with a slice of lemon or a sprinkle of cinnamon. Enjoy while it’s still nice and warm — just the tonic you need on a cold winter’s day!
Notes
- A splash of whisky or spiced rum for a touch of indulgence.
- A dash of apple cider vinegar for a tangy, probiotic kick.
- A pinch of cayenne to really turn up the heat
- This tonic is perfect for boosting immunity during cold months. The ginger, turmeric, and cinnamon all work together to support circulation and fight inflammation.
- Adjust the sweetness by adding more or less honey/maple syrup depending on your preference.
