Aphrodisiacs and Tonics for February's Heart

By Katie of HBC

Maca: Spicy and Sensual

If you're looking for a little something to add excitement to this cold, cold February, you don't have to look any further than the bulk herb department at the Wedge. The ancient Andean aphrodisiac, Maca, is available in powder to help spice up your Valentine's Day dinner.

The use of Maca (Lepidium meyenii) dates back to the Incan cultures of Peru where it was used by warriors before battle and as a form of currency with Spanish imperialists. The crop has been used for centuries in the Andes as a health tonic to support the adrenals, energize the body, and enhance libido and fertility. This highly valued plant grows only very cold climates, particularly those in high altitudes with poor soils.

Maca has only recently become popular in the United States as we begin to recognize its energizing and aphrodisiac properties. Try this spiced up hot cocoa recipe and serve it to your loved one as a special Valentine's Day treat that will really set the mood:

"Maca is For Lovers" Hot Cocoa

Ingredients:

• 1/4 - 1/2 c. sugar (depending on the strength of your sweet tooth)
• 1/3 c. water
• 1/4 c. unsweetened cocoa powder
• 4 c. milk
• 3/4 tsp. vanilla
• 1-2 Tbsp. Maca powder according to taste

1. Mix together the sugar, water, and cocoa in saucepan and heat on medium until dissolved.
2. Add the milk and heat until nearly boiling.
3. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla and Maca powder.
4. Serve it up steaming and enjoy the night!

Hawthorn to Strengthen the Heart

They say that Hawthorn can be used to help mend a broken heart. It's no wonder since this herb has been used for centuries as a tonic to strengthen and nourish a weak heart. This herb is outstanding in both preventing and treating cardiovascular disease. It lowers blood pressure, helps release cardiovascular constrictions and blockages, and is a powerful antioxidant. It is the perfect herb to nourish the heart for a long and healthy life.

This February, whether or not love is on your mind, it may be a time to do the old ticker a favor and give it a boost with Hawthorn. In a society so stricken with heart disease, this herb has the potential to do wonders. Buy the berries in our bulk herb department and make a simple syrup that can be added to oats, smoothies, pancakes, or yogurt at the start of your day. The following recipe is an easy way to incorporate Hawthorn into your daily routine.

Happy Heart Syrup

Ingredients:

• 2 oz. dried Hawthorn berried
• 1 quart cold water
• 1 c. honey

1. Combine Hawthorn berries and water in a pot and simmer over low heat until the liquid is down to one pint. This will make a very strong, concentrated tea.
2. Strain the berries from the liquid and discard, pouring the liquid back into the pot.
3. Add the honey and warm the mixture just enough to dissolve the honey.
4. Pour into a bottle and store in the refrigerator for up to two months.