Shoku Iku

At Shoku Iku, we believe in savouring the extraordinary. Our matcha isn’t just a drink; it’s a journey steeped in tradition and crafted with care. For those who cherish quality over quantity, our matcha offers an unparalleled experience.
Each cup is a testament to the rich heritage and meticulous craftsmanship that go into every batch.
Our matcha may not be for everyone, and that’s perfectly okay. It’s for those who seek the finest, appreciate the story behind every leaf.

To be transparent, we don’t make much profit from our matcha. It’s my determination to offer products that I can be proud of.

Maybe replace one of daily matcha with our matcha, when you have time and space to sit with it mindfully and find joy in savouring something truly special.

🌟 Start Your Day Right with Our Buckwheat Porridge! 🌟

Indulge in a bowl of our delicious buckwheat porridge to delight your taste buds and rev up your metabolism.

🌾 Buckwheat Benefits: A nutrient-dense, gluten-free grain rich in essential amino acids, antioxidants, and minerals like magnesium and manganese, supporting overall well-being.
🥜 Healthy Fats: Our porridge is power-packed with activated nuts and seeds, ensuring a steady supply of essential healthy fats for sustained energy throughout your busy day.
💪 Tonic Herbs: Our unique blend of tonic herbs enhances energy, boosts immunity, and provides a rich source of antioxidants to support your health.
🍬 Low Glycemic: Our porridge is designed to keep your blood sugar levels stable, providing a consistent release of energy to fuel your day.
🌿 High in Fiber: Supports digestive health and keeps you full and satisfied.

Just add some mylk and preferred topping. Available under Functional Food Range on our website.
Pictured porridge: ENERGY- CACAO

Why we use MIRON JARS 💫

We are committed to maintaining the highest quality of our premium herbs and botanicals. That’s why we use Miron violet glass jars, a unique solution that protects and enhances the potency of our products.

🔍 Why Miron Violet Glass? Miron glass acts as a natural filter, blocking the harmful light spectrum while allowing beneficial sunlight to pe*****te so your herbs remain potent and vibrant, just as nature intended.

☀️ The Science Behind It While sunlight is essential for plant growth, continuous exposure after maturity can accelerate decay. Miron violet glass prevents this by only permitting light that preserves and improves the quality of sensitive substances. With the highest frequency of visible light (720 - 770 billion Hertz), our glass ensures your herbs are protected and preserved.

Please reuse these jars when you finish with the herbs. Use them to fill other herbs and spices in the kitchen or purchase our bulk size and refill as you need 💚

🌿 Understanding the Power of Herbs:
Adaptogens vs. Nervine Herbs

In the herbal wellness world, adaptogens and nervine herbs uniquely support health. However, I sometimes see confusion between the two.

Adaptogens are a particular class of herbs known for helping the body adapt to stress and restore balance. They work by modulating the body’s stress response and enhancing resilience. Popular adaptogens include Ashwagandha, Rhodiola, and Ginseng. Incorporating adaptogens into your routine can support energy levels, boost immunity, and improve overall well-being.
Nervine Herbs: These herbs specifically target the nervous system, helping to calm and soothe the mind and body. Nervines are often used to reduce anxiety, improve sleep quality, and promote relaxation. Chamomile, Lemon Balm, and Valerian are well-known nervine herbs. They are perfect for those moments when you need to unwind and find tranquillity.

I take adaptogens regularly, so I move my life with more peace and ease. I want to build that resistance to stress before it starts to affect me. Nervine can work more quickly when you need to calm your nervous system right now.

Modern-day support is a blend of intelligent adaptogens. Take them regularly, especially when life gets a little stressful.

Our matcha are

🌿ceremonial grade
🌿single origin, single cultivator
🌿JAS organic certified
🌿from Uji, Kyto
🌿stone grounded
🌿from a family owned business with 20 generations, dating back to Edo period in 1751

Quality of matcha matters.

🌿 Discover the Power of Adaptogens with Our Modern Day Support Alchemy Blend! 🌿

Have you ever wondered how to keep your body balanced and resilient?
Adaptogens are natural substances that help your body adapt to stress and maintain optimal health. Here’s how they can benefit you:

1. Stress Reduction: Adaptogens help regulate your body’s stress response, making it easier to stay calm and focused.
2. Boosted Energy: Feel more energised and less tired throughout the day.
3. Enhanced Mental Clarity: Improve your cognitive function and stay sharp.
4. Immune Support: Strengthen your immune system to resist illness better.
5. Hormonal Balance: Help balance your hormones naturally, promoting overall well-being.

Adaptogens are clever in that they know where your body needs attention and balance it into homeostasis. Unlike many Western medicines, adaptogens are modulating and double-directional.

Our Modern Day Support Alchemy Blend is formulated with carefully selected adaptogens to provide these amazing benefits. 🌱✨
Or find your favourite under Tonics and Functional Botanical Range

New menu for raw food reset is out 💫
To fire up your digestion and nurture your spleen during these cold days we are throwing in Digestive Support Alchemy Blend this month 🔥

I can’t wait to put together these meals! Which dish would you be most excited about???? (Falafel has always been a winner dish 😮‍💨)

These are 4 of my favourite powerful herbs to take for your immunity.

🛡️ASTRAGALUS
Strengthens Eki: renowned for its ability to fortify Eki, the body’s defensive energy, helping to ward off external pathogens.
Enhances Immune Response: stimulates the production of white blood cells, including macrophages and natural killer cells
Supports Respiratory Health: helps to protect and strengthen the lungs, making it particularly useful during cold and flu season.

🍄‍🟫 REISHI
Immune Modulation: enhances the activity of immune cells, including T-lymphocytes and macrophages,
Anti-inflammatory: Reishi’s triterpenoids have been shown to inhibit the release of histamine and other inflammatory mediators, reducing inflammation.
Adaptogenic Properties: supports the body’s ability to handle stress, which can otherwise weaken the immune system.

🍐GRAVIOLA
Antioxidant-Rich: high in antioxidants, which help protect the body from oxidative stress and support immune health.
Anti-inflammatory: Compounds in Graviola, such as acetogenins, have reduced inflammation by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines.
Antibacterial and Antiviral: Its properties help fight bacterial and viral infections, enhancing the body’s natural defences.

🪭TURKEY TAIL
Immune Enhancement: PSP and PSK in Turkey Tail enhance the activity of immune cells, such as T-cells and natural killer cells, improving the body’s ability to fight infections.
Gut Health Support: Turkey Tail promotes a healthy gut microbiome by acting as a prebiotic.
Anticancer Properties: PSK has been used as an adjuvant therapy in cancer treatment, helping to stimulate the immune system and inhibit tumour growth.

Find direct links in the story 👆💛

🌿 Unlock the Benefits of a Reset with Shoku Iku! 

Discover how our specialised reset programs can help you rejuvenate and cleanse your body. From boosting metabolism and enhancing mental clarity to promoting detoxification and supporting healthy weight management, our resets are designed to nourish your body from within, providing you with the reassurance you need for your wellness journey.

At Shoku Iku, we offer two specialised programs👇

Raw Food Reset: A gentle introduction focusing on raw, organic foods.
Advanced Reset Program: A deeper cleanse incorporating tonic herbs and adaptogens, formulated based on a Fast Mimicking Diet.

✨ Our Commitment:
* Organic Ingredients
* Plant-Based Meals
* Anti-Inflammatory
* Gluten & Grain-Free
* Refined Sugar-Free & Low in Sugar
* Oxidised Oil-Free

Swipe through to learn more about the benefits and tips for a safe and effective reset.

Discover the Mood-Enhancing Power of Mucuna 🌿

Feeling a bit down or stressed? Meet Mucuna. This incredible herb, often referred to as the “velvet bean,” is packed with L-Dopa, a precursor to dopamine – the “feel-good” neurotransmitter. 🌟

How Does It Work?

Mucuna pruriens is rich in L-Dopa, a naturally occurring amino acid that converts into dopamine in the brain. Dopamine is crucial for regulating mood, motivation, and overall sense of well-being. By increasing dopamine levels, Mucuna helps: ✨ Enhance mood and well-being ✨ Increase energy and motivation ✨ Reduce stress and anxiety
As an Ayurvedic herb I love pairing with turmeric latte 💛
Ingredients:

1 cup of almond milk (or any milk of your choice), warm
1 tsp of turmeric powder
1/4 - 1/2 tsp of Mucuna powder
1/2 tsp of cinnamon
1/4 tsp of ginger powder
Monk fruit to sweeten
A pinch of black pepper
Instructions:

Blend all the ingredients and pour into a mug and enjoy the warm, soothing, and mood-boosting benefits.

Did you know your voice can reveal much about your health and well-being?
In this post, we explore the fascinating connections between voice tones and your body's energetic systems based on Eastern medicine principles.

🗣️ Liver Energy (Shouting): A forceful voice expressing opinions can indicate balanced liver Qi. Frequent shouting or agitation might signal an imbalance or stagnant liver Qi.

🌍 Spleen Energy (Singing): A melodious, clear voice reflects good spleen health. An overly pronounced singing tone or a monotone voice can indicate spleen and stomach energy system issues.

💧 Lung Energy (Weeping): Emotional release through sobbing or crying is therapeutic and indicates balanced lung energy. Chronic sobbing or frequent crying might point to a lung imbalance.

💖 Heart Energy (Laughing): A balanced heart energy allows light-heartedness and joy, often expressed through a hearty laugh. However, laughter that is nearly constant or occurs at inappropriate times might signal an imbalance. Nervous laughter in non-amusing situations or the urge to laugh when others are sad or distressed could indicate a “Shen disturbance,” a disruption in the spirit or consciousness residing within the heart.

💦 Kidney Energy (Groaning): Groaning, especially during stress or intimate moments, reflects the kidney’s energetic system. Consistent groaning may signal a kidney imbalance.

Our voice is more than just a means of communication. It’s a product of our body, a measure of our energy, and an expression of our mind. It serves as a gateway to our spirit. Like fingerprints, our voice prints are unique, forming an integral part of our identity that we can explore, modify, and develop.

In Eastern Medicine, the tone of our voice in excess- whether singing, laughing, crying, shouting, or groaning—reveals imbalances in our elements and organs.

The butterfly pea flower, also known as Clitoria ternatea, is celebrated for its rich antioxidant properties. It helps reduce stress, enhance cognitive function, and support overall wellness. Plus, it’s a natural mood booster!

We offer high-quality organic butterfly pea flowers directly from an independent Thai farmer. You can easily incorporate into your daily routine. Whether you’re brewing a soothing tea or crafting a stunning latte, our organic flowers ensure you get the purest experience.

✨ How to Make a Butterfly Pea Flower Latte:

1. Steep a few dried butterfly pea flowers in hot water until you achieve a deep blue colour.
2. Strain the flowers and mix the blue tea with your favorite milk.
3. Sweeten to taste with your preferred sweetener (I used our monk fruit)
🌿💙

Find out Butterfly Pea Flower under TEA AND INFUSIONS

💚 Health Benefits of Monk Fruit 💚

Did you know monk fruit is not only a natural sweetener but also packed with antioxidants?

🍈Natural Sweetener
* Zero Calories:  contains natural sweeteners called mogrosides, which are calorie-free. This makes it an excellent choice for those looking to reduce calorie intake without sacrificing sweetness.
* No Impact on Blood Sugar Levels: Unlike regular sugar, monk fruit sweetener does not cause spikes in blood sugar levels.
🍈Rich in Antioxidants
* Helps Combat Free Radicals: Monk fruit is rich in antioxidants, particularly mogrosides, which help neutralise free radicals in the body.
* Supports Overall Health: The antioxidants in monk fruit can contribute to overall health by reducing inflammation and supporting the body’s natural defence mechanisms.
🍈Blood Sugar Management
* Safe for Diabetics: Monk fruit sweetener is a safe alternative for people with diabetes as it does not raise blood glucose levels.
🍈Immune System Support
* Contains Anti-inflammatory Properties: The mogrosides in monk fruit have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce inflammation in the body.
* Boosts Immunity: By reducing oxidative stress and inflammation, monk fruit helps support a healthy immune system.
🍈Additional Health-Boosting Compounds
* Vitamins and Minerals: Contains vitamin C and B vitamins, essential for immune function, energy production, and overall health.
* Flavonoids: Known for anti-inflammatory effects and supporting cardiovascular health.
* Polysaccharides: Boost the immune system and support digestive health.
* Saponins: Help lower cholesterol levels and may have anticancer properties.
* Amino Acids: Vital for muscle repair, growth, and various metabolic processes.
🍈Traditional Eastern Medicine Uses
* Respiratory Health: Historically used to treat coughs and sore throats due to its soothing properties.
* Digestive Aid: Used to relieve digestive issues and support gut health.
* Longevity Tonic: Considered a longevity tonic, monk fruit was believed to increase lifespan and overall vitality.

Pearl has been revered for centuries for its remarkable health benefits and is considered a potent tonic for beauty and wellness 💆🏻‍♀️

“I have been using the nano sized pearl powder for a while now. My nails grow faster and my hair shines. Great for the whole body.”
-Katherine-

🌊We make sure our supplier takes ethical/sustainable practices. This means that farms are required to protect mussels when they release the pearls, which are then placed into the lake again.

Benefits ☯︎
Improves skin: Enhances complexion, reduces wrinkles, and soothes acne.
Calms mind: Eases anxiety, reduces stress, and promotes better sleep.
Strengthens bones: Provides bioavailable calcium for stronger bones and teeth.
Detoxifies: Supports liver and kidney function, aiding in detoxification.
Boosts immunity: Rich in minerals like magnesium, zinc, and selenium.
Promotes longevity: Nourishes vital energy (Qi) for better vitality and resilience.
Supports eye health: Improves vision and alleviates dry eyes and cataracts.
Enhances spirituality: Balances energy, promoting inner peace and spiritual growth.

Our classic granola 🤎
I’ve been making this for over 15 years now.

Activated and slowly dehydrated for delicious and wholesome breakfast or snack experience.

I never loved commercially made granola because of their added sugar or oxidized fat content. The ritual of sprouting and activating our ingredients neutralizes and increases the nutritional value.

Find it under Functional Food Range on our website. We now have an option of multiple packs 👌

I believe what you eat on the plate matters the most, before nutritional supplemts or fancy protein powders.

Modern farming practices can reduce the quality of the produce and our demanding lifestyle needs more help.

Remember herbs and superfoods are foods. And they are foods that have a very high nutritional density as well as other compounds that are hard to come by.
And that is why I prefer them to vitamin pills or powders made from isolated compounds.

🌀Each emotion is intricately linked to a specific internal organ, and fear stands as a sentinel emotion guarding the depths of the kidney.
In Eastern philosophy, emotions are not merely ephemeral states of mind; they are seen as a manifestation of the subtle energies circulating within the body. Just as the body’s organs function in harmony to maintain health, emotions too play a vital role in this symphony of well-being. When emotions become imbalanced or suppressed, they can disrupt the flow of Qi or Ki (life force energy) and lead to disharmony within the body. ⚡️

During the winter season, we focus on nourishing the kidney and its correlating emotion Fear.

Fear stands as a sentinel, deeply rooted in the primal essence of survival. In Eastern philosophy the kidney is regarded as the reservoir of Jing, the foundational essence that governs our vitality, growth, and reproductive health.

When fear becomes excessive or chronic, it can deplete the kidney’s vital essence, leading to imbalances such as fatigue, insomnia, and reproductive issues. Conversely, nurturing the kidney through practices such as meditation, gentle exercise, and nourishing foods can help restore harmony and resilience in the face of fear. ⚖️

Each emotion holds the potential for transformation. Rather than suppressing or denying our emotions, embrace them as messengers guiding us towards greater self-awareness and balance. By cultivating mindfulness and compassion, we can transmute fear into courage, transforming adversity into opportunity.

Our aim should not merely be to alleviate symptoms but to address the underlying imbalances that give rise to illness.
This season, take care of yourself by slowing down, breathing deeply, resting and nourishing your body with Jing-promoting herbs and foods. 💕

Elevate your snacking game with these nutritious and delicious options.

Our range of Raw Vegan Crackers 🌱

Indulge in the perfect snack with our trio of raw vegan crackers, crafted from organic activated ingredients.

✨ Curry - Subtly spiced with macadamia, almond, and cauliflower for a delightful crunch.
✨ Seaweed - Bursting with umami flavor, featuring shiitake mushrooms and seaweed.
✨ Pesto - A classic blend with a twist, enriched with ash*taba for a unique and flavorful bite.

They are delicious with dips, as salad topping and tasty on their own. Find them under Functional Food Range

When our matcha supplier in Japan send me some photos of new matcha 🍵

Springtime in Japan brings the highly anticipated new harvest of matcha, a moment cherished by tea enthusiasts around the world. Harvested in May, this fresh batch of matcha boasts vibrant green hues and an unmatched, delicate flavor. The tender tea leaves are carefully picked and stone-ground to create a fine powder that is not only delicious but also packed with health benefits.

The new shipment arrived a week ago and it’s extra fresh for you to try out organic ceremonial grade matcha from Uji, Kyoto.

I love working with creators, farmers and producers who have the deep respect and pride in what they do. Our matcha is a perfect example of this relationship 😌

He Shou Wu, revered as the “Elixir of Life” is renowned for its powerful longevity properties and exceptional support for kidney health.

Traditionally cured in black bean sauce, our He Shou Wu ensures optimal effectiveness and maximum health benefits. Rich in complex nutrients like emodin, phospholipids, and essential minerals such as zinc and iron, He Shou Wu works wonders for your overall well-being.

🌱 Key Benefits:

☑️Promotes Longevity: Combat premature ageing and maintain youthful energy with He Shou Wu’s potent rejuvenating properties.
☑️Supports Kidney Health: Enhance your kidney function and detoxify your body, ensuring optimal urinary tract health.
☑️Boosts Energy Levels: Feel revitalized and invigorated, ready to take on your day.
☑️Enhances Sexual Health: Improve sexual function and fertility, benefiting both men and women.
☑️Strengthens Immune System: Increase your red blood cell count and bolster your immunity.

Our he shou wu can be purchased as a single herb or part of our alchemy blends.

A way to support your winter month with this breakfast.

Energy Buckwheat porridge served with black tahini, goji berries and a side of he shou wu tea.

Food is your first medicine. How and what you eat can either balance or imbalance your body and mind.

Jing is a primal life force and determines our potential for a long and healthy life, according to three treasure theory. The kidneys houses your life essence, Jing.

Include foods that are nourishing to your kidneys ( see the last post) and add herbs that can support your Jing.

We may not like to admit it but the winter is here (at least where I am).

Winter is associated with the Water element, reflecting the season’s qualities of stillness, introspection, and conservation of energy. Here are some insights and tips on how to stay balanced during the colder months.

Save the post to remind yourself to slow down in the next couple of months 💕

🧣Nourish the Kidneys:
Winter is the season of the Kidneys. To support kidney health, incorporate foods like black beans, kidney beans, walnuts, sesame seeds and miso. The flavour associated with this season is salty. Make sure you are using natural and mineral rich salt such as Celtic salt and non pasteurised miso.

🧣Jing nourishing herbs: Include herbs such as he shou wu, rehmannia, goji and warming spices like ginger, cinnamon, and cloves.

🧣Conserve Energy:
Winter is a time for rest and rejuvenation. Follow nature’s lead by allowing yourself more sleep and downtime. This period of rest is crucial for recharging your Qi and preparing for the activity of spring.

🧣Practice Gentle Exercise:
While conserving energy is important, gentle exercises such as Tai Chi, Qigong, and yoga help maintain the flow of Qi and blood without overexerting the body. These practices also enhance flexibility and promote inner calm.

🧣Protect Yourself from the Cold:
Dress warmly, especially covering the neck and lower back, which are vulnerable areas. Use scarves and layers to protect against the cold and maintain your body’s warmth.

🧣Stay Hydrated:
Although it might be less obvious in winter, staying hydrated is essential. Drink plenty of warm water and herbal teas to support the body’s functions and keep mucous membranes moist, which helps prevent infections.

🧣Bonus: Mind Your Emotions:
Winter is a time for introspection. Take advantage of this quieter season to reflect on your life and emotional well-being. Practices such as meditation, journaling, and mindfulness can help balance emotions and reduce stress.

New Raw food Reset menu for June and July is out now.

I’m booked in for an arm surgery in mid June so the dates are limited, hence keeping the same menu for June and July.
Some classic dishes to be enjoyed!

Book in early to secure your spots 🌱

“養生” – You-Sei / Yang Sheng is one of the fundamental concepts of Daoism and Kampo (Traditional Japanese Medicine), which translates to “nurture life”.

In the West, we tend to overlook wellness and disease prevention, taking good health for granted and resorting to symptom management rather than addressing root causes. You-Sei, however, focuses on identifying energy imbalances before they manifest as disease, working towards maintaining balance and health.

Think of it as the legs of a chair – you need all four pillars for stability: mind and emotions, body, exercise, and sleep.

It is so basic but the most important. It is not only we want “disease-free” but to live life fully with vibrancy physically and emotionally.

Join us for raw vegan 5 course dinner at our Northcote space for the last time.
2nd July, Tuesday evening

Doing dinner evenings was one of my favourite things to do here. It was a beautiful way to play with my creativity and watching people connect around the table always left me feel so full.
Have you ever attended one with us? Spaces are limited so please book early to secure your spot.

*the apple pie tho 🤤🤤 I can’t wait to make this one again.

https://shokuikuaustralia.com/product/celebration/

“Can I heat up the raw food meals?”
We get this question often when it comes to our raw food reset.

In winter, dishes like curry, stew, soup, lasagna can be heated at lower temperature in a dehydrator, an oven or on the stove gently. I would not heat up fresh salad but I would recommend taking them out moments before serving so that it’s closer to a room temperature.

These living foods can be so nourishing and good addition to otherwise heavy winter meals. Do you want to keep feeling fresh and energised?
Book in for your reset on the website 🌱

Easy breakfast / snack you feel so good about.

Our porridges are made with activated buckwheat and nuts / seeds and super foods.

Why do we love buckwheat?
🌱 High in vitamin E, vitamins, folate, niacin, magnesium, 🌱iron and more
🌱High in fibre
🌱Low GI
🌱Has complete protein, containing all nine essential amino acids.
🌱Gluten free

Mix with some mylk and leave it for a couple of minutes to soak up. Top with your favourite topping before serving.
No cooking required 💕

Raw food reset menu - May

A few changes in the delivery courier service means that we are pausing a delivery to Sydney for the colder months.
I know many of you have been looking forward to trying the resets so we are working hard to make something happen soon.

If you are in Melboune we still got you 🌱

This change of seasons is getting people with flu and I was one of them 😫

Herbs play a significant role in maintaining health and aiding in the treatment of illnesses, including colds and flu. However, they are often not interchangeable. Many Qi herbs can “tonify” the body’s Qi, or vital energy, to prevent illness. Herbs like astragalus, ginseng, and reishi mushroom are commonly used for their immune-boosting properties and believed to strengthen the body’s defenses.

If you already have a cold or flu, the treatment should address the underlying patterns of disharmony within the body and use herbs that are antiviral, antibacterial, and rich in antioxidants to support your immune system.

A great example of a Preventive Herb is ASTRAGALUS. It is revered for its ability to tonify Qi and strengthen the body’s defenses. It is believed to enhance Wei Qi, thereby fortifying the body’s immune system. Astragalus has a rich array of scientific compounds such as polysaccharides, flavonoids, and saponins, as well as anti-inflammatory properties, to stimulate immune cell activity, fortifying defenses against pathogens.

A example for treatment herb is GRAVIOLA. When you’re feeling under the weather and in need of a speedy recovery, turn to this herb. This tropical fruit, also known as soursop, is packed with antioxidants, such as flavonoids and acetogenins, which have been shown to neutralize free radicals and reduce inflammation in the body. These properties may contribute to its potential health benefits beyond cancer prevention, including cardiovascular health and immune support.

I don’t usually write anything political much here but personally my emotion has been high lately. I’ve been thinking a lot about how we can bring more equality and safety to the world.

As a mother with a daughter and someone who have experienced, seen and heard the pain so many of us experience everyday we need more understanding and awareness to what is actually happening. And it needs actions from all of us.

I honour and feel the strength and pain of feminine.
And here are some plant allies 🌱 to support your health and healing.

Add to the list
- red clover
- wild yam
- mugwort
- black cohosh
- vitex

Please be sure to check with you health professionals especially if you are pregnant or breast feeding