I'm all about a nourishing smoothie — they're so versatile no matter the need or occasion. We can adjust them depending on how we're feeling after long weekends of indulging, travelling, or when we're a bit off our sleep cycles. One of the smoothies I find myself, and my clients, coming back to is the one for getting the glow back in our skin, because all of those things can leave skin feeling a bit lifeless and dull.
This one leans on He Shou Wu and Ashitaba, two tonic herbs traditionally valued for supporting radiance, alongside pumpkin for vitamin A and C and avocado for its fatty acids, vitamin E and fibre.
Skin Nurturing Smoothie
Ingredients1 1/2 cups filtered water (or any unsweetened plant milk) 1/2 tsp. He Shou Wu 1/2 tsp. Ashitaba 1/4 cup pumpkin purée (not pie filling) 1-2 tbsp. raw cacao 1/4-1/2 avocado, depending on size 1/2 to a full banana, depending on size (you can also use stevia or monk fruit to sweeten) handful of mixed greens 1/8 tsp. pink sea salt 1/8 tsp. ginger 1/8 tsp. cinnamon pinch of nutmeg (optional) |
MethodAdd all the ingredients to your favourite blender, adjusting the liquid to the consistency you like. Sip slowly, and enjoy. |
A note from Sun Potion on He Shou Wu
Pronounced he-show-woo, this traditional Taoist herb is derived from the root of Polygonum multiflorum, also called Fo-Ti. It has been used in Chinese herbal tradition for centuries and is classed there as both a Shen (spirit) herb and a Jing (essence) herb — one of the most revered in the tonic tradition.
He Shou Wu is traditionally valued for supporting beauty and everyday vitality, and it is a source of iron and of the essential trace mineral zinc.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does He Shou Wu taste like?
Earthy and slightly bitter, a little like raw cacao. Half a teaspoon disappears into a smoothie with cacao and banana.
What is Ashitaba?
Ashitaba is a Japanese green known as the tomorrow leaf. It is bright and grassy, and a little goes a long way.
Can I make this without banana?
Yes — stevia or monk fruit sweetens it without the banana, though you lose some of the body. A little extra avocado makes up for it.
Does the pumpkin need to be cooked?
Use plain pumpkin purée, not pie filling. Tinned plain purée is already cooked and works straight from the tin.
These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
