Sesame Vitality Shake: A Nourishing Drink for the Change of Seasons

Sesame seeds are a commonly used Ayurvedic ingredient. The whole seeds are often added to food and the oil is prized for abhyanga and other treatments. But there’s one more way that you can enjoy this versatile food as medicine: in a soothing and delicious Sesame Vitality Shake.

The recipe is as simple as it is delicious. It takes just four ingredients: black sesame seeds, warm water, cinnamon, and honey. Sipping this lovely concoction will bring calcium, iron, and minerals to rejuvenate your body and mind after a long winter. Plus the slight laxative nature of sesame seeds eases kapha’s sluggish digestion and evens out vata’s irregularity.

Sesame Vitality Shakes are good to drink during the change of seasons, when ojas can become depleted. The astringency of the seeds clears srotamsi, and the honey draws the nutrients deeper into your tissues. Together, these actions support the flow of prana and make room for vitality all season long.  

Sesame Vitality Shake

Ingredients:

Serves 2

• 1 tablespoon ground black sesame seeds
• 16 ounces warm water
• Pinch of cinnamon
• 2 teaspoons honey⁺

Directions:

Combine the ground sesame seeds, water, cinnamon, and honey and blend until fluffy. Have half a cup with a meal or as a nourishing drink during the day. Note: This delicious shake has a nut milk consistency as opposed to a milkshake consistency. 

⁺If pitta is in excess, substitute maple syrup for the honey.