5 Herbal Additions to Upgrade Your Hot Cocoa
Hot cocoa is one of my favorite winter drinks. It is uplifting to the mood and energy and delicious! I love to add all sorts of things to my cocoa. I know you all know about things like cinnamon, but here's 5 of my other favorites. You can use them in combination or individually. Feel free to add them to your favorite cocoa mix or make your own like I do.
Ashwagandha- This warming herb is great for the vata season. It is warming in nature and grounding for the nervous system. It can soothe anxiety and helps to regulate the stress response. It is a favorite in Ayurveda for all male sexual dysfunction. It is not recommended for pregnant people or those with high blood pressure.
Maca- Maca has a delicious nutty flavor and is great in combination with chocolate. It is also adaptogenic, providing balance in the stress response, while also giving energy. It is a great pick me up. Maca is also considered an aphrodisiac, and can contribute to a little extra nudge in that direction if desired. Maca can support estrogen balance and can be a great ally for menopausal and perimenopausal folks. It is not recommended during pregnancy.
Shatavari- Shatavari adds a comforting creaminess to your cocoa drinks. It is also grounding to the nervous system and is considered adaptogenic. Shatavari contains phytoestrogens and can support those with estrogen deficiencies, and is considered supportive throughout the many different female phases of life. However, it is beneficial for all sexes. It is ideal for those who have a stressed nervous system, feel ungrounded and have dryness in their constitution. Shatavari is rejuvenating and brings back the juiciness of life.
Rose- I personally think we can all use some rose medicine in our life. I use it in my hot cocoa solely for the purpose of uplifting the heart. It is pure light for the heart during these darkest days. Sometimes I will add a couple of fragrant petals at the very end of heating my cocoa, or 1/4 tsp of the powder, (the rose flavor is strong, so you do not need much), but my favorite way to add it is by stirring in 1/2 tsp of rose glycerite or a splash (maybe 1/4-1/2 tsp) of rose water.
Nutmeg- Nutmeg is a comforting and familiar spice, but many do not realize that it is a perfect addition during the vata/kapha seasons. It is warming and pungent, yet also soothes the nervous system. It is also great to add to warmed milk at night to help one sleep. Only add a small amount, about 1/4 tsp, and I like it best freshly shaved or ground from the whole nut.
Here’s a basic hot cocoa recipe, but honestly, I do my cocoa measurements by taste.
Basic hot cocoa:
1 TBSP Cocoa powder (add more to taste)
1 TBSP cane sugar (or your choice of substitute)
1-2 Tbsp of dark chocolate chips (to taste)
3 drops vanilla extract
1 cup milk (I use oat milk)
1-1 1/2 tsp of your favorite herbs
Place milk, herbs (except rose) cocoa powder, sugar, and chocolate chips in a small saucepan and heat on medium, whisking constantly until the chocolate chips melt and are dispersed into the milk.
Turn off the heat and add the vanilla and rose. Enjoy!