I have put together some of the most powerful nervine tonics from around the world in a creamy, chocolaty, comforting blend. From the Americas to Asia, these herbs have been traditionally used to tone the nervous system, aid memory, manage stress, and help with neurodegenerative diseases. In recent years some of these herbs have been studied as alternatives for treating neurological diseases. 

This is my pick-me-up blend. I typically take it in the afternoon. It helps me end stressful days with grace. This blend is nurturing and satisfying as all the ingredients in it are nutrient-dense. It can be taken as a snack or as a coffee substitute. Add some matcha powder for extra caffeine. 

The quality of your ingredients is of utmost importance to maximize the benefits. Read the labels to ensure that your ingredients don’t have fillers such as oil, sugar, or preservatives. I always check how my ingredients have been sourced and processed and choose organic when possible. 

If you end up enjoying this blend as much as I do, I recommend you buy bulk as it will save you money. I typically buy at least one pound of each ingredient. On the other hand, if you want to try this blend first and buy small quantities, you might be able to find most if not all the ingredients in the bulk section of your local health food store. Of all the ingredients, lucuma might be more challenging to find. It can be substituted with a splash of maple syrup when ready to blend or just be left out. You can double up on reishi or lion’s mane if you cannot find the other. Similarly, you can double up on maca or ashwagandha if the other is not available but might want to adjust the sweetness as maca is sweet and ashwagandha is rather bitter.   

The Ingredients    

Raw Cacao Powder

Cacao is full of antioxidants, cardiotonic, can stimulate the nervous system, and improve digestion and elimination. The medicinal uses of cacao have been documented since the 16th century. The Mayans believed it had mystical powers and used it in ceremonies.

Do not confuse cacao with cocoa. Cocoa is heated and often contains fillers like sugar, milk, and oil. For a truly healing potion, your cacao needs to be cold-pressed and free of unnecessary ingredients.  

Lucuma Powder

Lucuma is a fruit native to South America. Its powder tastes like butterscotch with maple syrup undertones. It is a mild sweetener with a low glycemic index used in ice creams and other sweets. Lucuma is high in fiber, vitamins, and minerals. 

Reishi Powder

Reishi, the queen of mushrooms, has been used for hundreds of years to treat numerous health conditions. Its adaptogenic properties aid in stress relief. Research findings suggest significant neuroprotective effects and the possibility of it being used as an alternative in the treatment of brain injury and other neurological diseases. 

Lions Mane Mushroom Powder

In Chinese medicine Lion’s Mane mushroom is used for brain and neurological health. Scientific studies show that it can reduce anxiety and depression. It is also used to support the immune system. 

Ashwagandha Powder

Ashwagandha is a strong adaptogen, a potent antioxidant, and a nerve tonic. It is venerated in Ayurvedic medicine for its multiple benefits. Its adaptogenic qualities are particularly useful with stress management and immune system regulation. It can improve fertility and reproductive function. It is also anti-inflammatory and anti-arthritic. Furthermore, scientific studies show that it can be helpful in neurodegenerative diseases like Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s.

Maca Powder

Maca has been cultivated in Peru for over 2000 years. It has an earthy, nutty flavor and can be added to smoothies and sweets. Traditionally used to improve reproductive function, maca is also an energizer and helps with memory and learning. 

Cinnamon Powder

Cinnamon does not only add flavor and aroma to this blend, but it can also have an anti-inflammatory effect on the nervous system and can trigger the growth of healthy brain cells. It has been studied as a natural alternative to stop the progression of Parkinson’s disease. It is a Cognition enhancer, antioxidant, and cardioprotective. It is also used in the treatment of diabetes and high blood pressure. 

Cashews

Cashews add creaminess to this recipe. Choose raw and unsalted. Cashews are fiber-rich, low in sugar, a source of plant protein, and healthy fats. Their mineral content can support energy production, brain health, and a healthy immune system. 

Dates

Native to Morocco, dates are nutrient-dense. Regardless of their sweet flavor, dates have a low glycemic index. According to research, it is safe for those with diabetes to consume it in moderation. Dates can improve brain function and reduce the risks of neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s disease. 

The Method

You can prepare the herbal powder blend in advance and keep it in an airtight container. I like to keep this blend handy. Thus, I prepare enough for a week. Use a whisker or a fork to mix the powders thoroughly. 

I suggest a high-speed blender for a silky-smooth latte. However, a regular blender will deliver a beneficial product as well. 

Add the powder blend along with the dates, cashews, and warm water to the blender. This recipe is for four servings. A single serving requires approximately 1 round tbsp. of the blend.

Neurotonic Herbal Latte for Stress Management and General Wellbeing

Swati Neaves

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Prep Time 5 minutes mins

Cook Time 1 minute min

Course Drinks

Cuisine Tea

Servings 4 servings aprox

Equipment

• High speed blender

Ingredients

  

• 2 tbsp Raw Cacao Powder
• 2 tsp Lucuma
• 1 tsp Reishi Mushroom Powder
• 1 tsp Lion's Maine Mushroom Powder
• 1 tsp Maca Powder
• 1 tsp Ashwagandha Powder
• 1 tsp Cinnamon
• 1/2 cups Cashews raw
• 2/3 cups Dates
• 5 cups Water warm

Instructions

 

• Mix all the powders.
  2 tbsp Raw Cacao Powder, 2 tsp Lucuma, 1 tsp Reishi Mushroom Powder, 1 tsp Lion's Maine Mushroom Powder, 1 tsp Maca Powder, 1 tsp Ashwagandha Powder, 1 tsp Cinnamon
• If not using all immediately, store the blend in an air tight container. Each serving is approximately 1 tbsp.
• Add the herbal blend, dates, cashews, and warm water to a high speed blender.
  1/2 cups Cashews, 5 cups Water, 2/3 cups Dates
• Blend at medium speed for 1 minute or until smooth.

Keyword apothecary, ashwagandha, cacao, cinnamon, herbal blog, herbal healing, herbal remedies, herbalism, herbs, lion’s mane, lucuma, maca, natural healing, nervine, neurotonic, reishi, stress, tea, tea recipe

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