I am currently engaging in my year end ritual, an annual process of intentional reflection and rebirthing which for me happens between November 20th and February 2nd of each year. The initial stages of this process involve a great deal of honoring and releasing as I detox my entire being – mentally, physically, emotionally, and spiritually.
Because all our experiences and memories are a part of us at a cellular level, it’s important that as we release old stories and beliefs for our mental and emotional health, we also help release toxins and excess from our physical bodies for our physical health and wellbeing. One of my favorite ways to do this is through what I call Crandandy Tea – because that’s a fun name for this Cranberry + Dandelion tea. 
Dandelion is a natural diuretic which supports detoxifying the liver, improving kidney function, as well as being high in antioxidents including flavonoids, and phenolic compounds, all of which help to eliminate damaging free radicals in our body. Dandelion tea is also a great aid in digestion. The various compounds found in dandelion tea act as a diuretic, laxative, and a digestive stimulant, while also causing a release of extra bile. This can help speed up digestion and make it more efficient. A lovely bonus at this time of year when we’re more likely to indulge in less than ideal foods and drink.
Cranberry juice is well known for it’s ability to aid and heal urinary tract infections. This sour fruit is also lauded for its cardiovascular benefits and thanks to its high phytochemical antioxident properties also offers prevention against cancer and tumor growth.
Lemon juice, despite being acidic, is one of the easiest ways to support your body in maintaining an alkaline state. Lemons are considered on of the most alkaline-forming power foods and aid in detoxifying the body to boot. Simply smelling a fresh cut lemon can help clear your mind and your mood. I always put lemon in my water and encourage adding this to what I know is already a tart tea. If your palette’s not quite used to the tart, adding a little honey can take off the edge.
Making Crandandy Tea
- 8 sachets of Organic Dandelion Root Tea
- 4 cups hot water
- 2 cups Organic Cranberry Juice
- may supplement with Organic Cranberry Concentrate
- Lemon & Honey optional
- Bring a pot of 4 cups of water to a boil
- Remove pot from the heat before adding the 4 tea bags. Boiling water may burn the botanicals in the tea and cause it to taste bitter and acidic.
- Allow the tea to steep for at least 15 minutes. I typically leave it sit for an hour or more.
- Gently remove the tea bags without squeezing all excess tea from the bag. Squeezing the tea bag will release tannins, again causing the tea to taste bitter.
- Add 2 cups of cranberry juice.
- Add juice of fresh squeezed lemon (and a little honey to take off the tart edge if needed)
- Drink hot or cold throughout the day. It’s handy to start a new pot in the evening and allow the tea to steep overnight.
Enjoy & BE Well!
Detoxing and Releasing is just the first step to creating the life you desire. Would you love to receive recipes like this, along with rituals, products, and a sacred community of women to support you through your journey? Join us as we journey to the most sacred of all places…the journey to our own Wild Hearts.
