Herbs + Juice Series: Episode 1 – Dandelion Gingerale with Ginseng

Written By TheActiveHerb tAH

Tools I Used

This process was simple and smooth thanks to the right tools:

These tools help you infuse, press, and bottle functional ingredients with ease.

A Functional, Thermogenic, Botanical Beverage

Welcome to the first installment of the Herbs + Juice series—a space where traditional herbs and cold-pressed juice meet to create intentionally formulated, functional beverages. In this episode, I’m creating a blend that supports digestive fire, circulation, hydration, and gentle internal balance using dandelion root, dandelion leaf, ginseng, ginger, and lemon.

The result? Two deeply nourishing recipes: a wellness shot and a botanical gingerale.

Why This Combination?

This blend brings together a herbal infusion and a cold-pressed juice, both loaded with bioactive compounds known for their supportive roles in thermogenesis, lymphatic flow, and internal cleansing.

We’re working with:

  • Dandelion root & leaf – traditionally used to support liver function and fluid balance

  • Ginseng – an adaptogenic root known for resilience and energy

  • Ginger & lemon – warming, antioxidant-rich, and digestive

  • Honey & sparkling water – balancing flavor with natural sweetness and effervescence

These ingredients are thoughtfully selected to create a beverage that is herbal, warming, lightly bitter, slightly sweet, and entirely functional.

The Herbal Infusion

Steeped using a simple saucer cover method, this infusion includes:

  • Dandelion root – Contains taraxasterol, phenolic acids, and inulin—a prebiotic compound that supports gut flora and digestive function.

  • Dandelion leaf – Offers minerals and flavonoids that may support fluid metabolism and mild diuretic effects.

  • Ginseng root (Panax ginseng) – Rich in ginsenosides, compounds studied for their adaptogenic and cellular-supportive properties.

Steeping Method:

  1. Add herbs to a mason jar.

  2. Pour in just-boiled filtered water.

  3. Cover with a saucer and let steep for several hours or overnight.

  4. Strain using a hemp bag for clean separation of the infusion.

The Juice: Ginger + Lemon + Water

I juiced fresh organic ginger and lemon using the NAMA J2 Cold Press Juicer (code: AISHA10). This method preserves nutrients while extracting a smooth, spicy, and vibrant juice.

Key compounds:

  • Gingerols and shogaols – Known for promoting circulation and thermogenic warmth

  • Vitamin C from lemon – A powerful antioxidant that also supports collagen and cellular defense

  • The juice alone is fiery, bold, and energizing—but when paired with the herbal infusion, it becomes balanced and deeply satisfying.

Formulations

1. Wellness Shot

These are great for mornings or as a midday boost.

  • 1 part dandelion + ginseng infusion

  • 1 part ginger-lemon juice

  • Pour into glass shot bottles for easy storage

  • Optional: Add a pinch of cayenne or turmeric for extra warmth

2. Dandelion Gingerale

A botanical soda alternative with a functional edge.

  • 2 parts herbal infusion

  • 1 part ginger-lemon juice

  • Honey to taste (I prefer raw or infused honey)

  • Sparkling water to top it off

  • Serve over ice, stir, and enjoy

The flavor is herb-forward, slightly bitter, and perfectly balanced with ginger heat and lemon brightness.

Shelf Life & Storage

  • Infusion: Store refrigerated for up to 3 days

  • Juice: Fresh is best—use within 3–5 days

  • Mixed shots or gingerale base: Best enjoyed within 2–3 days

  • Store in airtight glass containers to preserve freshness and potency.

Rooted in Tradition, Backed by Nature

This Herbs + Juice blend is built around botanicals that offer warmth, resilience, and internal balance. From the adaptogenic profile of ginseng to the bitter-sweet synergy of dandelion and the metabolic heat of ginger, this formulation is crafted for flavor and function.

Whether you take it as a daily wellness shot or sip it slowly as a botanical gingerale, this is herbal support that feels good to drink.

Ready to Make It Yourself?

You can find the NAMA J2 Juicer [insert link]
Use code AISHA10 at checkout for 10% off

And stay tuned for more in the Herbs + Juice Series—where plants meet function, and beverages become rituals.

TheActiveHerb tAH
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