Tarragon & Carrot Soup
Written by Yvette, certified Medical Herbalist and founder of The Lavender Practice
Nature's Health Heroes for Liver, Gut & Mood
Warmth from winter sunbeams teases the snow drop to break through the earth and grow towards the light. The snowdrop is a welcome reminder that winter will soon be over.
Just as nature wakes from her winter slumber and petals start to open up to feel the fresh air, so our natural body rhythms start to kick in and we feel more energised and alive. Warming soups, using February and March’s seasonal vegetables, are the perfect way to stay warm, cosy and nourished on the inside as we continue to tackle the external stressors of winter , with the promise of spring just round the corner.
Gut Health Solutions in a Toxic World
Artemisia dracunculus (Tarragon) is a potent medicinal herb which can help to protect the health of the liver and gut. It has antiviral action, fat busting power and antidepressant and anti-anxiety properties. It is also a rich source of vitamin B3 which helps with energy levels. Carrots can help to regulate hormone balance, promote weight loss, reduce inflammation and boost healthy strains of gut bacteria.
Ingredients:
3 tbsps. of olive oil
1 large onion chopped
5 carrots peeled & chopped
2 leeks chopped
1 litre of vegetable stock
1 tsp of dried Tarragon (1 tbsp of fresh, chopped tarragon)
2 tsp of agave nectar syrup, s
alt & freshly ground black pepper
Method:
Gently caramelise the onion in the olive oil until brown. Add the carrots & leek and mix well. Cook on a medium to low heat (partially covered) for approx 10 minutes. Stir occasionally. Add the vegetable stock and bring to the boil. Simmer for 5 minutes until the vegetables are cooked.Add the agave nectar & the Tarragon and simmer for another minute. Allow to cool and blend until smooth, season to taste.
3 WAYS TO INCREASE YOUR INTAKE OF VITAMIN B3
Include Niacin-Rich Foods in Your Diet: Incorporate foods that are naturally high in vitamin B3 into your meals. Examples include, Chicken breast, Tuna, Salmon, Turkey, Peanuts, Mushrooms, Green peas.
Sunlight Exposure: Sunlight triggers a reaction in your skin that produces vitamin D, but it can also prompt your body to synthesize small amounts of vitamin B3.
If possible you should include the following into at least one meal a day. Legumes such as lentils, beans, and chickpeas. They are an excellent sources of vitamin B3, Including these in your diet can help boost your niacin intake.
