Vancouver weather is still indecisive about whether it is winter or spring. In the mornings, you might be craving a warm cup of tea and a few hours later, a chill refresher to cool you down. For times like these, it is great to have a beverage you can enjoy hot or cold. This recipe for Peruvian Emoliente will help you adapt to this crazy weather, satisfy your cravings, and keep your health in check!

If you have never heard of this drink before, chances are you are not Peruvian! This drink is available on every single street corner in almost every city in Peru. The tradition of drinking Emoliente has been around for centuries. Brought by the Spaniards during colonial times as a medicinal beverage, Emoliente established itself as a popular drink among Peruvians due to its healing properties.

The Benefits of Barley Tea

Emoliente is a beverage made with toasted barley and a medley of different herbs. Many ancient cultures around the world knew about the healing properties of barley tea, so it is consumed in various forms across the globe. It is well known to have effective antioxidant properties as well as improve digestion and alleviate urinary tract infections. Its nutrients and minerals keep the body’s digestive, respiratory and circulatory systems health in check. This tea itself provides a wide range of health benefits, but it is even more potent when combined with other herbs.

There are various versions of Emoliente, as it depends on the combination of herbs that are in the mix. The most common ingredient used are flax seeds, which help reduce high cholesterol levels. Also, horsetail is traditionally added to heal ulcers and hemorrhages. Alfalfa leaves serve to purify the urinary tract, blood, and liver. In addition, other herbs, like chamomile or lemongrass can be beneficial because of their anxiety-calming benefits and soothing flavour.

We encourage you to create your own concoction of medicinal herbs, but you can start with this basic recipe.