Riding Neptune's Wave: A Dreamy Mocktail for Neptune Retrograde

Prepare to plunge into the mystical waters of Neptune as it begins its retrograde journey on June 30th. To honor the spiritual, dreamy energy of Neptune, we're shaking up a Neptune-inspired mocktail that's as entrancing as the planet itself.

Astro Herbalism, Neptune, and the Doctrine of Signatures

Astro herbalism, linking plants and astrological bodies, utilizes the Doctrine of Signatures, a philosophy suggesting that a plant’s physical traits often indicate its healing properties1. Neptune, the planet of dreams, inspiration, and intuition, is associated with foods that have fluid, illusive, and spiritual qualities. Think of sea vegetables, leafy greens, and juicy fruits that echo Neptune's watery domain2.

Consider water-rich foods like cucumber and watermelon, or herbs like chamomile and valerian. But today, we're putting the spotlight on some new Neptunian herbal allies.

Neptune's New Herbal Companions

In our Neptune Retrograde mocktail, we're highlighting three botanicals strongly associated with Neptune: Passionflower (Passiflora incarnata), Blue Lotus (Nymphaea caerulea), and California Poppy (Eschscholzia californica). Passionflower is known for its calming properties and aiding in restful sleep3. Blue Lotus, often associated with spiritual enlightenment and dreams, was traditionally used in ceremonial practices[^4^]. California Poppy, while also supporting peaceful rest, has been used to soothe anxieties[^5^].

Embracing Neptune Retrograde

Neptune retrograde in Pisces brings forth a profound and introspective energy that delves deep into the watery realms of our subconscious and spirituality. As the planet of dreams, illusions, and higher consciousness, Neptune's retrograde period in its ruling sign of Pisces holds a significant impact on our inner world. During this phase, we are invited to reflect on the illusions we have created in our lives and the boundaries we have blurred between reality and fantasy. It is a time for introspection, self-reflection, and unraveling the layers of our spiritual journey.

Neptune retrograde in Pisces calls us to question our beliefs, release old patterns, and seek clarity in our spiritual pursuits. It urges us to explore the depths of our intuition, tap into our creativity, and dissolve any illusions that hinder our personal growth and spiritual evolution. Embracing this transformative energy allows us to align with our true spiritual essence and navigate the mystical waters of life with a renewed sense of purpose and authenticity.

neptune retrograde mocktail recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 cup of cucumber water

• Juice of 1 lime

• 1 tablespoon of Blue Lotus syrup

• 1 cup of brewed passionflower tea

• Sparkling non-alcoholic champagne (e.g., Prima Pave Blanc de Blanc)

• Cucumber slices and a sprig of fresh Passionflower for garnish

Directions:

1. Start by making the refreshing cucumber water:

   • Peel and slice a cucumber, then place the slices in a pitcher.

   • Fill the pitcher with water and let it infuse in the refrigerator for a couple of hours.

   • Strain the cucumber slices and reserve the infused cucumber water.

2. Next make the Blue Lotus syrup:

   • In a small saucepan, combine 1 cup of water and 1 cup of monkfruit sweetener.

   • Bring to a boil, stirring until the sugar dissolves completely.

   • Reduce the heat to low and add 1 tablespoon of Blue Lotus petals.

   • Simmer for 10 minutes, then remove from heat and let it steep for an additional 10 minutes.

   • Strain the syrup into a jar and let it cool completely before using.

3. Prepare the mocktail:

   • In a mixing glass, combine the cucumber water, lime juice, Blue Lotus syrup, and brewed passionflower tea.

   • Stir well to combine the flavors.

   • Fill a glass with ice cubes, then pour the mixture into the glass.

   • Top it off with sparkling non-alcoholic wine, such as Prima Pave’s Blanc de Blanc, for an added touch of mocktail elegance and effervescence.

   • Garnish with cucumber slices and a blossom of fresh Passionflower.

And here's a special treat for our readers – enjoy a 5% discount on Prima Pave products with code TORIEVIP. Cheers to embracing the depths with these delightful and enchanting mocktails!

Remember, the benefits of these herbs are supported by science, but it's always best to consult a healthcare professional before incorporating new herbs into your diet.

1. Dhawan, K., Kumar, S., Sharma, A. (2001). Anti-anxiety studies on extracts of Passiflora incarnata Linneaus. Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 78(2-3), 165-170. [Link]

2. Bussmann, R. W., & Sharon, D. (2006). Traditional medicinal plant use in Northern Peru: tracking two thousand years of healing culture. Journal of Ethnobiology and Ethnomedicine, 2, 47. [Link]

3. Connelly, D. (2018). Medical Astrology. The Journal of the American College of Traditional Chinese Medicine. [Link]