The Elixir of Life manifests as potion, tea, powder, water, oil or soluble salts. This mystical creation is said to bestow immortality or eternal youth using the wisdom of nature. In alchemy it's associated with the Philosophers' Stone and the white herb of Maria.
One single elixir does not exist. These are made according to the will and wisdom of the creator. Physicians, friars and alchemists perfect their signature brews. Some are basic health tonics and others seem to give a little kick and elevation of mood.
Ancient alchemists combine potent plants recognized for their health benefits. The finished product is a result of process (mixing, grinding, mashing, roasting) and experimentation. Below is a curated list of 10 plants recommended for use in creating an Elixir of Life.
Alchemists often heat the herbs, steam (distill), boil, blanche or roast briefly to allow their essences to emerge. Other processes such as fermentation and precipitation might be used. The initial batch is best kept as simple as possible, with potential for experimentation.
1. Gynura Procumbens - Longevity Spinach
Gynura procumbens, longevity spinach, sabuñgai or sambung nyawa, has numerous health benefits, including anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Rich in vitamins A, C and E, as well as essential fatty acids, this plant is believed to promote long life and overall wellness.
The edible vine is native to China, Southeast Asia, and Africa. The plant grows wild but is also cultivated as a vegetable or medicinal plant. Young leaves are used for cooking.
2. Lycium Barbarum - Matrimony Vine
Lycium barbarum, matrimony vine, Chinese wolfberry shrub or goji berries is a staple in traditional Chinese medicine renowned for immune-boosting and anti-aging properties. Phytochemicals in the berries are being studied for medicinal purposes.
While the berries are usually used, this plant also has health compounds in the roots, which can be ground down or simmered. Revitalizing effects of the berries strengthen the immune system, support eye health and enhance skin vitality.
3. Zingiber Officinale - Ginger
Also called the golden root, ginger is a powerful medicinal plant. Known for its anti-inflammatory properties, ginger can aid digestion, relieve nausea, and enhance immune function. Its warm and spicy flavor makes it an excellent addition to potions of wellness.
Ginger is a versatile ingredient. The tangy juice of the tubers gives a bright flavor to herbal medicines, ginger teas and longevity elixirs. It can be candied, ground, made into tea (very nice with honey) and has a solid reputation as a life-giving plant.
Ginger has a long history of benefits as the root of life. It's believed the Chinese alchemist and immortality seeker Xu Fu learns the miraculous properties of life-giving elixirs upon a Japanese mountain. Wild ginger is one of his ingredients.
Below, the extremely rare Japanese wild ginger (Asarum monadoraflorum) is once a prized component in immortality drinks or pills. In Japanese its name means never-grow-old or never-die.
4. Curcuma Longa - Turmeric
Curcumin, the active compound in turmeric, has strong anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. This golden spice has been linked to improved brain function and a reduced risk of chronic diseases. Turmeric is a key ingredient in healing potions, associated with longevity.
Turmeric is used to treat rheumatoid arthritis, skin cancer and digestive disorders. It has benefits for sufferers of depression, memory loss or heart disease, and is applied to various
cancers.
5. Coriandrum Sativum - Cilantro
Cilantro, or coriander leaves, helps lower cholesterol and reduce inflammation. This herb has been traditionally used to counteract heavy metal toxicity. With a fresh citrusy flavor, boasts detoxifying properties and aids in digestion.
Coriander is native to the Mediterranean Basin. All parts of the plant are edible, but the fresh leaves and the dried seeds are most often used in cooking. The taste of cilantro can vary from lemon to soapy or unpleasant due to variations in a gene of the plant. Taste before buying.
6. Salvia Rosmarinus - Rosemary
Rosemary is a fragrant herb with potent antioxidant properties. It has been linked to improved digestion, enhanced memory, and a boost in immunity. This aromatic plant can infuse elixir with unique flavor while promoting cognitive health and overall well-being.
Rosemary is native to the Mediterranean basin. Its first use goes back to c. 5000 BCE.
Early applications include spice and medicine. Tossing rosemary on a grave protects the soul of the dead, or keeps the dead from roaming. In ancient Egypt it's used for embalming.
7. Foeniculum Vulgare - Fennel
Fennel seeds are known for digestive properties. They help relieve bloating, improve gut health, and have a calming effect. With a mild anise flavor, fennel also has antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties.
8. Panax Ginseng - Ginseng
Panax ginseng is famed for helping the body adapt to stress and enhancement of energy levels. Recent studies suggest that ginseng can improve cognitive function and boost immunity.
Ginseng helps the body combat stress and promote resilience.
9. Valeriana Officinalis - Valerian
Valerian root is best known as a natural remedy for anxiety and insomnia. Often used in herbal teas, promotes relaxation, improve sleep quality. relieve migraine, fatigue, and stomach cramps. Valerian is a natural treatment for anxiety and depression.
10. Salix Alba - White Willow
White Willow is known for pain-relieving properties due to salicin content, similar to aspirin. It may also possess anti-inflammatory effects. Willow bark is commonly used during the time of Greek physician Hippocrates, when people are advised to chew it to relieve pain and fever.
The same study shows it increases the average and maximum chronological lifespan of yeast by 475% and 369%, respectively. Good news for yeast. Salix Alba is a beneficial addition to the Elixir of Life.
Elixirs should be stored in glass flasks, bottles, vials or jugs, dark glass or in a dark place, well covered. The Elixir can be mixed and consumed as is, or allowed a period of rest for flavors and benefits to mingle. Cheers!
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