Cucumber Mint Spa Water
This refreshing spa-water recipe come from Cynthia Sass, MPH, MA, RD, former Nutrition Director for Prevention, who created the recipe while developing a Flat Belly Diet. It is refreshing for the summer & great for your body!
Ingredients:
2 liters water (about 8 1/2 cups)
1 teaspoon freshly grated ginger
1 medium cucumber peeled and thinly sliced
1 medium lemon thinly sliced
12 small spearmint leaves
Directions:
Mix all the ingredients together in a pitcher
Refrigerate overnight
Strain water
Enjoy over ice cubes
Add mint sprig for garnish (optional)
The Ginger contains high concentrations of antioxidants and helps soothe the intestinal tract and digestion. As an immune booster, ginger may not only be warming on a cold day, but can help promote healthy sweating. A good sweat may can assist in detoxification.Cucumber flesh is primarily composed of water but also contains ascorbic acid (vitamin C) and caffeic acid, both of which help soothe skin irritations and reduce swelling. Cucumber juice is often recommended as a source of silica to improve the complexion and health of the skin, plus cucumber's high water content makes it naturally hydrating—a must for glowing skin.
Like many of the fruits and vegetables featured on our website, lemons and limes contain unique flavonoid compounds that have antioxidant and anti-cancer properties.
Spearmint is a pleasantly aromatic herb packed with numerous health benefiting vitamins, antioxidants and phyto-nutrients. These compounds in mint help relieve fatigue and stress. Spearmint is said to be an excellent remedy for minor ailments such as headaches, nervous strain, fatigue and stress, as well as for the respiratory problems; helping with asthma and bronchitis. It is thought to aid with digestive problems including nausea, flatulence and hiccups as it relaxes the stomach muscles.
