When the seasons change, or when I’ve been around a lot of the sniffles, I like to make a big batch of elderberry syrup. While that’s always been a staple around our home, I also like to change up my immune boosting remedies. I’ve made all sorts of herbal concoctions over the years, but this simple ginger, turmeric, and lemon immunity shot is one I keep coming back to.
It’s warming and a little spicy, with a vibrant golden color thanks to the antioxidants. Best of all, it’s packed with nutrients that support the immune system, calm inflammation, and help the liver with detox. I sometimes sweeten it with raw honey to take the earthy edge off of the spices. If you’re feeling fancy, swap out the water for coconut water or pineapple juice for a tropical twist.
Why I Love These Ingredients
Fresh Ginger
Ginger is a staple in my kitchen for both cooking and natural remedies. I use it for everything from easing upset stomachs to calming coughs. It’s naturally warming, supports healthy circulation, and contains compounds that can help reduce inflammation. If you eat ginger you can feel it working almost immediately to warm the body.
Fresh Lemon Juice
Fresh lemon juice adds a bright flavor and a welcome dose of vitamin C. It’s great for supporting immune health and can help soothe a scratchy throat. I also find that lemon gives this drink a refreshing balance. It cuts through the spice of the ginger and the earthiness of the turmeric to brighten it up. Lemon is also a great way to detox.
Fresh Turmeric
Many recognize turmeric for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. I love using it to support joint health, digestion, and liver function. Fresh turmeric root works great for this recipe and lends an earthy, complex flavor and a bright yellow hue. Just remember, it will stain anything it touches, so be mindful when you’re making the immunity shots.
Raw Honey
The raw honey is optional, but it does help to mellow out the bite from the ginger and turmeric. Honey has natural antibacterial properties, can soothe sore throats, and adds a mellow sweetness. Local, raw honey can help combat seasonal allergies and is high in antioxidants and nutrients. It can even help reduce mucus and calm coughs as well as some over the counter cough syrups.
Optional Base Swap
While plain water works just fine, sometimes I’ll use coconut water for extra electrolytes. Pineapple juice is another great option for natural sweetness. Pineapple contains the enzyme bromelain to help better digest food and calm coughs. Other research shows bromelain can help with issues like preventing sinusitis, bronchitis, and blood clots. Both options pair beautifully with the ginger and turmeric.
Here’s how to make your own anti-inflammatory, immune boosting wellness “shots.”
Anti-inflammatory Ginger Turmeric Immunity Shots
These spicy, flavorful “shots” help keep your immune system in shape. Plus they’re anti-inflammatory and energizing.
- 2 inches fresh ginger
- 2 inches fresh turmeric root
- ½ cup water
- ½ lemon (juiced)
- 1 tsp raw honey (optional)
Combine all ingredients in a blender and blend until smooth. Add more honey if desired to balance the spiciness.
Strain out the solids and compost or discard.
Enjoy your drink!
Nutrition Facts
Anti-inflammatory Ginger Turmeric Immunity Shots
Amount Per Serving (1 shot)
Calories 25
Calories from Fat 3
% Daily Value*
Fat 0.3g0%
Saturated Fat 0.1g1%
Polyunsaturated Fat 0.1g
Monounsaturated Fat 0.1g
Sodium 5mg0%
Potassium 95mg3%
Carbohydrates 6g2%
Fiber 1g4%
Sugar 3g3%
Protein 0.3g1%
Vitamin C 1mg1%
Calcium 8mg1%
Iron 1mg6%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.
- These taste best fresh, but you can also store the drink in the fridge for several days.
- Dilute with more water if desired.
A Quick Tip on Turmeric
Turmeric is wonderful, but it’s also notorious for staining countertops, wooden spoons, and anything light-colored. I’ve learned the hard way to wipe up any splashes right away.
Final Thoughts On Immunity Shots
This ginger, turmeric, and lemon immunity shot is a great way to keep your immune system strong all year long. It’s easy to make and tastes delicious. I’ve found that it’s a little too strong for younger children. However, you could try diluting in more water (or pineapple juice) and mixing more honey to mellow the flavor for little ones.
To boost the benefits even more, try stirring in a pinch of black pepper before serving! This helps your body absorb more of the curcumin from the turmeric. Play with the ingredients some and make it your own!
What are some of your favorite, easy ways to get a health boost? Leave a comment and let us know!
