Warm Up with Winter Drinks

Enlarge Image Image Gallery Herb-enhanced hot beverages take only minutes to make, but can keep you toasty for hours. Photo by Kati Molin

When days grow darker and the winds sharper, venture in from the brisk outdoors to sip herb-infused hot winter drinks. Let these enticing aromas fill your home and lift your spirits.

Winter Drink Recipes 

• Mulled Wine with Herbs
• Mulled Pomegranate-Apple Cider with Rosemary, Thyme & Bay
• Peppermint Hot Chocolate
• Spicy Hot Cocoa
• Elderberry-Ginger Tea
• Turmeric-Black Tea Brew
• Lavender-Lemon Hot Toddy 

What’s a warming herb? 

“The phrases ‘warming’ and ‘cooling’ are traditional ways to classify herbs and their actions. A warming herb is one that causes increased blood flow and a warming sensation,” says Jaclyn Chasse, N.D., medical director of the Northeast Center for Holistic Medicine.

“Warming herbs are typically used for ‘cold’ conditions such as skin disorders, circulatory disorders, arthritis and joint pain,” she says. “They also can stimulate the immune system. Ginger and garlic are two well-known warming herbs. Others include cayenne, black pepper, cinnamon and cardamom.”

Warmth & Comfort 

Share fall and winter cheer with mulled wine or fruit juice—all deliciously fragrant with herbs and spices. Gather in the kitchen to enjoy socializing with family and friends over warm mulled herb beverages, or just sit by the window and watch a wintry world from your warm, aromatic perch.

These winter drinks are perfect for holiday entertaining. Here are some party-worthy favorites with health-enhancing ingredients: