There has long been an axis of transmission between the North Bay and Hawaii. That back-and-forth talk and trade has defined the life of Megan Brady, who divides her time between West County, Sonoma, and Hilo, Hawaii as the founder of elixir venture UpRoot Origin.
Partly to bridge and partly to bind these two places, Brady has formulated a healthy drink that blends the produce of each land. Organic ginger, turmeric and lotus roots from Hawaii mixed with organic, raw and unfiltered apple cider vinegar from North Bay heirloom apple varietals are dusted with organic cinnamon and lotus pollen and kissed with raw organic honey.
The result, “Concentrated Turmeric Elixir,” glows gold like Cal-Hawaiian sunshine. It is produced in Petaluma at the manufactory of Biotic Ferments, our local Kvass producer.
CH: Megan, besides the biographical piece, why did you bring these elements together in this juice blend?
MB: I came up with this blend because I had been taking these fruits, roots, herbs and spices separately as supplements to support my own health. As I shared it with my friends, people were saying it was helping them with a multitude of different health issues. In fact, this business wasn’t intended. It grew organically out of the growing need to supply my community. It’s gotten out of hand (laughs).
CH: In the best way. What can you say about the taste?
MB: Well, our slogan is “ignite the fire within” (laughs). I also say that it has a spicy, invigorating kick. It is a very concentrated product—a bottle will last you a long time. But I encourage people to mix it if it is too strong for them.
CH: It makes a fine mocktail. That is in addition to an eye-opening health shot. I see there are eight recipes for golden elixirs on your website, including a lemonade, a spritzer, a toddy and a vinaigrette.
MB: You can get very creative with it!
CH: I see that you have a close personal relationship with your ginger and turmeric and apple farmers, who work small holds in Hawaii and Sonoma.
MB: Oh, my relationship with my farmers is phenomenal! I wanted to have a company where I knew where I was sourcing the ingredients. And one of my passions is promoting the use of non-commercial products to support our local economies. My farmers, I can happily say, are my friends.
Learn more. Go to linktr.ee/uprootoriginLINKS for local retailers or direct shipping or to reach UpRoot Megan Brady through socials—Aloha!
