Mulling spices, while primarily used for flavoring beverages like mulled wine or cider, offer many nutritional benefits including antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, digestive support and potential immune system boosting effects including:

Antioxidant Rich: Many mulling spices are packed with antioxidants, which help protect the body against cell damage. 

Anti-inflammatory: Some spices, like cinnamon and ginger, have anti-inflammatory properties that can help with various conditions. 

Improved Digestion: Spices like ginger and star anise can aid in digestion and alleviate digestive issues. 

Immune System Support: Spices like cloves and star anise have antimicrobial properties that can help boost the immune system. 

The Individual spices in Mulled Spice Tea offer bring their own benefits too:

• Cinnamon: Rich in antioxidants, it may help regulate blood sugar levels and has anti-inflammatory properties. 
• Cloves: Contain eugenol, which has analgesic (pain-relieving) and antimicrobial properties. 
• Nutmeg:May act as an analgesic and antioxidant, supporting cell metabolism and potentially lowering LDL cholesterol. 
• Star Anise: Boasts antimicrobial properties and may help with digestion and potentially benefit those with obesity or high blood triglycerides. 

In addition to these specific benefits, mulled spices contribute to a sense of warmth and well-being, which can be particularly helpful during the colder months. 

Ingredients

• 2 handfuls frozen mixed berries
• 2 tablespoons frozen cranberries
• 1 tablespoon dried rose petals
• 1 cinnamon stick
• 1 green tea bag
• 4 cloves
• 1/2 tsp nutmeg
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 x star anise
• ½ orange, quartered

Method

• Pour 1 litre of water into a large saucepan, add the frozen cranberries and mixed berries and bring to a boil.
• Add the dried rose petals, cloves, nutmeg, star anise, bay leaf, cinnamon stick and orange.
• Stir until well mixed and bring down to a light simmer.
• Drop in the tea bag then leave to steep for 2-3 mins.
• Strain through a sieve into a heatproof jug and serve warm.