The Elixir of Life Tea – A Polyphenol-Packed Powerhouse
If you follow Bryan Johnson at all, you have probably heard of polyphenols. His recommendation of Extra Virgin Olive Oil (EVOO), aka “snake oil,” is based on its high polyphenol content. After hearing Bryan say that adding olive oil to your daily routine is one of his top recommendations for longevity, I became pretty obsessed with polyphenols.
I wanted to create a recipe of something that I could easily consume every day that has a way higher polyphenol count than EVOO.
And so, after playing around with several variations, I’ve created the Elixir of Life Tea, which contains around 2,000 mg of polyphenols per serving.
The Elixir of Life Tea – A Polyphenol-Packed Powerhouse
If you follow Bryan Johnson at all, you have probably heard of polyphenols. His recommendation of Extra Virgin Olive Oil (EVOO), aka “snake oil,” is based on its high polyphenol content. After hearing Bryan say that adding olive oil to your daily routine is one of his top recommendations for longevity, I became pretty obsessed with polyphenols.
I wanted to create a recipe of something that I could easily consume every day that has a way higher polyphenol count than EVOO.
And so, after playing around with several variations, I’ve created the Elixir of Life Tea, which contains around 2,000 mg of polyphenols per serving.
What Are Polyphenols?
Polyphenols are natural compounds found in plants that act as antioxidants, helping to reduce inflammation and protect against oxidative stress.
They support heart health, brain function, and overall cellular health, making them a crucial part of any longevity-focused lifestyle.
Polyphenols work by neutralizing free radicals, those pesky molecules that contribute to aging and chronic disease.
Ingredient Breakdown and Polyphenol Count
Each ingredient in the Elixir of Life is carefully chosen for its polyphenol content and health benefits.
Green Tea
Green tea is tich in catechins, particularly EGCG, which supports heart health and reduces inflammation. Green tea provides 500-700 mg of polyphenols per serving.
Cocoa Powder
Cocoa powder is packed with flavanols that improve circulation and brain function, cocoa adds 800 mg of polyphenols to each serving.
Ceylon Cinnamon
Cinnamon is known for regulating blood sugar and fighting inflammation, cinnamon contributes 400 mg of polyphenols.
Cloves
Tiny but mighty, cloves provide about 50 mg of polyphenols along with antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory benefits.
Star Anise
Adds a unique flavor and 50 mg of polyphenols, supporting digestion and immune health.
Ginger
Fresh ginger offers anti-inflammatory and digestive benefits along with 5 mg of polyphenols.
Turmeric
Known for its powerful anti-inflammatory properties, turmeric adds 5 mg of polyphenols.
Orange
Citrus not only brightens the flavor but also adds 10 mg of polyphenols and boosts immune health.
A Word About Sweetness
I know the Blueprint community tends to avoid sugar, but for this tea, I highly recommend adding just a touch of maple syrup. It brings all the flavors together in such a beautiful way, balancing the spices, cocoa, and citrus. Even just a teaspoon will do the trick, and trust me—it’s worth it!
Conclusion
With over 2,000 mg of polyphenols per batch, you’re getting a powerful dose of antioxidants in every sip, making this tea a must-have for anyone on a longevity journey. Brew it, store it, and enjoy it as part of your daily wellness routine.
Elixir of Life Tea
Ingredients
- 4 cups water
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 4 whole cloves
- 2 whole star anise
- 25 g fresh ginger chopped
- 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 orange sliced (including the peel)
- 2 teaspoons mushroom powder
- 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 cup coconut milk
- 2 green tea bags or 2 tablespoons loose-leaf green tea
- 1-2 tablespoons maple syrup optional but recommended
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract optional but recommended
Instructions
- In a medium-sized pot, bring the water to a gentle simmer. Add the cinnamon stick, cloves, star anise, ginger, turmeric, black pepper, orange slices, and mushroom powder. Simmer on low heat for 10 minutes to allow the spices and orange to release their flavors and nutrients.
- Stir in the unsweetened cocoa powder until fully dissolved. Let the mixture continue to simmer for an additional 5 minutes.
- Turn off the heat and add the green tea bags (or loose-leaf green tea). Steep for 3-4 minutes, then remove the tea bags to prevent bitterness.
- Stir in the coconut milk.
- If desired, stir in the maple syrup and vanilla extract.
- Strain the tea into mugs to remove the spices, orange slices, and any undissolved mushroom particles. Serve warm.
- Garnish with a slice of orange, a sprinkle of cinnamon or cocoa powder, or a cinnamon stick for added flair.
