Tea Health

Fortify

Written by Sarita Merlo | Apr 3, 2019 6:37:17 AM

FORTIFY is the super-charged newcomer to the BBTC range of herbal teas- a wellness tonic combining the powerful healing benefits of medicinal mushrooms and Tulsi with Cacao and a delicate blend of spices. Medicinal mushrooms have been a personal favourite of mine for years. I keep a powder on hand at all times when I need that extra zing! Fortify has been a long time in the making and involved a little trial and error to get the balance of ingredients just right. Cacao matches the richness of the medicinal mushrooms and seemed like the perfect addition to this blend. And, let’s face it- who doesn’t love wrapping their hands around a rich, chocolatey drink during winter that also helps to chase away the winter sniffles? Yum!

Shop the FORTIFY collection here.

These powerful plant extracts- or adaptogens as they are referred to in herbal medicine- increase the body’s ability to resist the damaging effects of stress and can help to balance, restore and protect the body. This is the perfect brew to equip you well in meeting the demands of a busy lifestyle.

They have been used for centuries in Asia – widely revered for their anti-ageing properties as well as a range of other health benefits specific to each type.

Medicinal Mushrooms

Maitake (Grifola frondosa) and Shiitake (Lentinula edodes) that feature in Fortify-are two of the most important and widely used mushrooms in alternative medicine. They contain a high level of bioactive compounds that have been documented to support immune function and benefit a wide range of medical conditions, including cancer

The Maitake and Shitake mushrooms also provide a wealth of protein, fibre, vitamins B and C, as well as calcium and other minerals. They have demonstrated great healing potential and have actions to boost heart health; combat viruses, bacteria, and fungi; reduce inflammation; fight allergies; help balance blood sugar levels; and support the body's detoxification mechanisms.

Tulsi

Like the medicinal mushrooms, Tulsi or Holy Basil also has wide-ranging health benefits and has been used in Asia to treat anything from eye disease to ring worm. It is considered a tonic for the body, mind and spirit – with the Tulsi leaves being commonly used and consumed as a tea in India. Also high in many nutrients- namely Vitamin A and C, Zinc, Iron, Calcium and Chlorophyll- Tulsi has been included in FORTIFY specifically for it’s action to increase cognitive function- perfect for those of us who may experience “brain fog” or who have poor memory and concentration.

These three key plant extracts have been carefully selected for their anti-ageing actions and to help bolster health to help us meet the demands of a busy lifestyle. Building a strong foundation and making our bodies more resilient to stress (whether that be physical, mental or emotional stress) is key in preventative health.

Cacao

Along with these powerful plant extracts is one of our favourites, Cacao- and this is not just because it is delicious! The combination of powerful bioactive compounds and nutrients (namely, protein, calcium, carotene, thiamine, riboflavin, magnesium, sulfur, flavonoids, antioxidants, and essential fatty acids) serve to kick in naturally occurring phytochemicals that have incredible benefits throughout the body- particularly the brain. Serotonin is one of them. Have you ever wondered why you crave chocolate when gloominess looms? Studies have shown that cacao affects your emotions and moods by raising serotonin levels, a “feel-good” neurotransmitter. Then there is Theobromine (also found in the tea plant) that has a mild stimulant action and releases a compound called anandamide that produces uniquely euphoric feelings of relaxation and contentment.

The above key ingredients in FORTIFY are hand-blended with a delicate mix of spices to give this brew a rich, decadent and slightly spicy but sweet flavour. Fortify is a healthy latte or hot chocolate substitute that’s free from dairy, soy and gluten as well as being paleo-friendly. It’s the pick- if you are seeking that extra spring in your step. Enjoy! Sarita

Brewing Suggestions:

Honey if desired

* Stir 2 tsp vigorously in a little hot water first.

Dairy-free | Gluten-free | Soy-free | Paleo-friendly

Ingredients: Cacao*, Maitake mushroom*, Shitake Mushroom*, Tulsi* Cinnamon*, Cardamom*, Ginger*, Allspice*, Cloves*, Nutmeg*, Stevia* (*Certified Organic)

#antiageing #wellness #holistichealth #anticancer #medicinalmushrooms #holisticlifestyle #plantpower #herbalmedicine

Health Benefits Summary-:

Maitake & Shitake Mushroom-:

Supports immune function and benefits a wide range of medical conditions, including cancer. They have actions to boost heart health; combat viruses, bacteria, and fungi; reduce inflammation; fight allergies; help balance blood sugar levels; and support the body's detoxification mechanisms.

Tulsi-:

Tulsi or Holy Basil is considered a tonic for the body, mind and spirit and has been included in FORTIFY specifically for it’s action to increase cognitive function- perfect for those of us who may experience “brain fog” or who have poor memory and concentration.

Cacao-:

The combination of powerful bioactive compounds and nutrients contained in Cacao, serve to kick in naturally occurring phytochemicals that have incredible benefits throughout the body- particularly the brain. These powerful constituents can help to elevate mood and produce feelings of relaxation and contentment.

Shop the FORTIFY collection here.