As soon as the temperatures drop and the sniffles start making their rounds, I’m straight back on my turmeric ginger shots. These little golden wonders are one of my favourite immune-boosting rituals — quick to make, simple ingredients, and packed full of natural goodness.
They’re the perfect morning kick-start during the colder months and help keep those winter bugs at bay. Plus, they taste fresh, zingy, and just the right amount of fiery!
Ingredients
- 4 oranges (freshly squeezed)
- 2 lemons (freshly squeezed)
- 1–2 inches of fresh ginger (or more if you love the burn!)
- 1 tsp turmeric powder or small knob of fresh turmeric
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- A pinch of black pepper (yes, it’s essential!)
- A pinch of cayenne pepper (optional, but adds a great metabolism-boosting kick!)
- ½ cup water (adjust for consistency)
- Optional: 1 tsp honey if you like a little sweetness
You can make a batch ahead and store it in the fridge for up to 7 days. I like to pour mine into a glass bottle or small shot bottles — one for each morning.
Sometimes I’ll even mix a shot with hot water to make a sort of “golden toddy” — perfect for chilly mornings or when you feel a little run down.
Why These Ingredients Work So Well Together
This isn’t just a trendy wellness shot — each ingredient plays a role in supporting your immune system, digestion, and overall vitality.
Turmeric
Turmeric is best known for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, thanks to its active compound curcumin. It helps reduce inflammation in the body and supports the immune system — exactly what we need as we head into cold and flu season.
Why Add Black Pepper (and Cayenne)?
Black pepper contains piperine, a compound that enhances the absorption of curcumin from turmeric by up to 2000%. Without it, your body simply can’t make the most of turmeric’s benefits — so don’t skip the pinch!
Cayenne pepper adds an extra layer of circulation-boosting, metabolism-stimulating warmth. It contains capsaicin, which can help open up airways, ease congestion, and even support fat metabolism. It’s also fantastic for improving blood flow, which is especially helpful when it’s cold outside and you’re feeling sluggish.
Lemon
Lemons are rich in vitamin C, a powerful antioxidant that supports the immune system, helps fight off infections, and keeps your skin healthy and glowing. They also help to alkalise the body and support digestion.
Oranges
Oranges bring natural sweetness along with another big hit of vitamin C. They also contain flavonoids that help reduce inflammation and protect cells from damage.
Ginger
Ginger adds that fiery kick — and it’s not just for flavour. It has anti-inflammatory, antiviral, and antibacterial properties. It’s also great for soothing sore throats, easing nausea, and boosting circulation.
Apple Cider Vinegar
This powerhouse ingredient is brilliant for gut health, helping to balance digestion and support the good bacteria in your microbiome. Since gut health is closely tied to immunity, this adds an extra layer of protection.
Honey (optional)
If you prefer a slightly sweeter shot, add a spoon of raw honey. It’s naturally antimicrobial and soothing for the throat — just make sure the water isn’t too hot when you mix it in, to preserve the beneficial enzymes.
How to Make Your Turmeric Ginger Shots
- Peel the oranges and lemons and juice them (or just squeeze by hand).
- Add the juice, grated ginger, turmeric, apple cider vinegar, black pepper, cayenne pepper, and water to a blender.
- Blend until smooth, then strain through a fine mesh sieve or muslin cloth if you prefer a smoother texture if you are not using a juicer.
- Pour into a glass bottle or small jars and refrigerate for up to 7 days.
How I Use Them
I have one shot first thing in the morning — either straight from the fridge if I want a refreshing hit, or topped with hot water when I fancy something soothing and warm.
It’s such a simple little ritual that makes a big difference to how I feel — more energised, less bloated, and generally stronger through the winter months.
Think of it as your daily immune insurance policy — nature’s version of a multivitamin.
A batch of these easy turmeric ginger shots will take you less than 10 minutes to prep, and they’re bursting with goodness to help you feel your best.
Sometimes the simplest habits really do make the biggest difference
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