As I enter my first cold and flu season as a mom, I’m doing everything I can to boost my family’s immune system! While my son (currently 9 months old) can’t have these immunity shots quite yet, my husband and I each take a shot a day to… keep the doctor away. Sorry, I had to!
These immunity shots are jam-packed with antioxidants to help strengthen your immune system. A combination of fresh ginger, turmeric, and citrus create a powerhouse to help ward off colds. Also, the addition of black pepper helps to activate the turmeric, leading to even more anti-inflammatory benefits.
They’re tangy, spicy, incredibly potent, but work some serious magic to keep my family healthy. If you also want to avoid getting sick this cold and flu season, I highly recommend you whip up a batch too!
What You’ll Need to Make this Immunity Shots Recipe
Fresh Ginger: Ginger is renowned for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. It aids digestion, soothes sore throats, and provides a zesty kick to our immunity shots. And in case you have leftover fresh ginger after making this recipe, use it to make these healthy teriyaki chicken bowls. Eating an overall healthy diet also works wonders for building a strong immune system!
Fresh Turmeric Root: Curcumin, the active compound in turmeric, is a superhero in the anti-inflammatory world! It’s a natural immune booster, assisting the body in fighting off infections and promoting overall well-being.
Lemons: Packed with vitamin C, lemons contribute to collagen production, which is crucial for skin health. They also support the immune system and add a refreshing citrusy flavor to the shots.
Oranges: Another vitamin C powerhouse, oranges help stimulate the production of white blood cells, enhancing the immune system’s defense mechanism against illnesses. Because of its cold-fighthing benefits, I aim to eat as much vitamin C as possible this time of year. One of my favorite ways to enjoy citrus fruits is in this citrus salad recipe – seriously so good!
Black Pepper: Piperine, found in black pepper, enhances the absorption of curcumin from turmeric. This dynamic duo ensures you get the most out of the turmeric’s immune-boosting properties.
What are the Health Benefits of Immunity Shots?
- The combination of fresh ginger, turmeric, lemons, and oranges provides a powerful boost to the immune system! These ingredients are rich in antioxidants and vitamins, supporting the body’s defense against infections and illnesses.
- Ginger and turmeric, with their anti-inflammatory properties, help reduce inflammation in the body. Chronic inflammation is linked to various health issues, and incorporating these shots into your daily routine may contribute to overall well-being.
- Lemons and oranges are excellent sources of vitamin C, essential for collagen production, skin health, and a robust immune response. Regular consumption of these immunity shots ensures a steady intake of this vital nutrient, promoting optimal health!
Tips and Tricks
Play with Ratios: Adjust the quantities of ginger, turmeric, and citrus to suit your taste preferences. If you enjoy a more zesty kick, add an extra squeeze of lemon or orange.
Storage Savvy: To ensure your shots stay fresh, store the juice in an airtight container in the fridge. Use dark glass containers to protect the ingredients from light, maintaining their potency.
Prep Ahead: Consider prepping larger batches and freezing the juice in ice cube trays. Pop out a cube whenever you need a quick immunity boost – it’s a time-saving trick for those hectic days.
Homemade Ginger and Turmeric Immunity Shots
Ingredients
- 1/4 cup fresh ginger, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh turmeric root, chopped
- 2 lemons, peeled and chopped
- 2 oranges, peeled and chopped
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups water
Instructions
- Add all ingredients to a blender and blend on high for 1-2 minutes.
- Place a fine mesh strainer over a bowl or pitcher and pour the liquid through the strainer, and use a spoon to stir the liquid around in the strainer to separate the pulp from the juice.
- Discard the pulp in the strainer, then pour the juice into an airtight container and store it in the fridge for up to 2 weeks.
- When ready to drink, pour 2 ounces into a glass and drink quickly (like a shot!).
