This delicious tulsi smoothie will help soothe your nerves and clear the clutter from your mind.

Tulsi, or Holy Basil, was used by ancient cultures for its healing and rejuvenating qualities. In India, it is considered a sacred plant with saatvic characteristics. It is pungent, heating, dry, and light, simultaneously promoting mental clarity and calming the nervous system.

Studies confirm its many therapeutic benefits including its use as an adaptogen. Adaptogens improve your body's ability to adapt to stress (e.g., a hectic schedule, heat or cold, high altitude).

Tulsi has also been shown to help the body cope with stress, anxiousness, and fatigue, promote healthy blood sugar levels already in the normal range, and support the immune, respiratory, and digestive systems.

Try it for breakfast or a mid-afternoon break.

Makes 1 smoothie

Ingredients:

• ⅓ cup peeled almonds
• ½ teaspoon tulsi powder
• ½ teaspoon turmeric powder
• ¾-inch fresh ginger, peeled
• 1 banana
• 1–2 teaspoons maple syrup
• 2 cups water
• Orange zest (garnish)

Directions:

In a vitamix (or high powered blender), add the almonds, tulsi, turmeric, ginger, banana, maple syrup, and water.

Blend on high until smooth and creamy.

Pour into a serving cup and garnish with orange zest.

Drink immediately at room temperature (do not add ice).

Tips:

This recipe is balancing to vata. Pitta and kapha can drink on occasion (or more frequently if they omit the banana).

Article courtesy of Banyan Botanicals

Recipe and images courtesy of Lois Leonhardi, author of The Essential Ayurvedic Cookbook.