Fall Digestive Tea

Licorice root, an herb, counteracts the dry quality of fall with its demulcent quality (an ability to aid the body in holding water in the intestines.) This herb is widely used to lubricate the intestines similarly as slippery elm and marshmallow root. Fennel reduces leftover summer acidity, while cinnamon and ginger warm the gut.

2 cups water

1/4-inch piece fresh ginger root

1/2 tsp fennel seeds

1/2 tsp cinnamon powder

1 tsp licorice root powder or 2 tsp chopped licorice root

In a small saucepan, bring 2 cups of water to a boil. Coarsely chop the ginger root - no need to remove the skin. Add the chopped ginger, fennel seeds, cinnamon and licorice powder or pieces to the water. Reduce heat to low and simmer covered for 10-15 minutes. Pour through a small tea strainer into a mug.

Drink this tea with or after meals to increase digestion.