Most of us are aware of how important it is to stay hydrated and drink plenty of water. However, whether everyone actually does just that seems to be a different question. It is quite alarming that many people attend a training class without fluid, to top up and keep hydrated. There are even those who if they could not get a flavoured drink or anything pleasantly tasting, would not be drawn to plain water.
The importance of staying hydrated cannot be expressed enough. Without enough water, so many problems can occur; apart from fainting, there are other major problems such as kidney infections that can then lead to kidney stones and other complications.
There are so many benefits from drinking enough water. If you are one of those who are not so keen on plain water, let me entice you with an ice-tea treat with some added benefits.
Use bottled or filtered water and boil in the kettle to make an infusion. You can drink it hot or allow it to cool, keep it in a handy container in the fridge and even add some ice cubes for that readymade iced tea.
Let’s start with regular basic tea – personally I am not a fan of the traditional builder’s brew, but add some cinnamon and cloves, and then I am more than happy to drink it. A simple change to some ordinary tea and a great transformation with the cinnamon which has the benefits of antioxidants, reduced inflammation and blood sugar levels, improved heart health and even PMS cramps. The cloves are known for their anti-inflammatory compounds in helping to heal sore throats, cold cough and headache. Eugenol present in clove can help with digestion, and good healthy digestion can aid effective weight loss. Clove can also help speed up the metabolism naturally, so for those that want to shape up, it is an added bonus.
Remember that ordinary tea can be purchased decaffeinated nowadays, so those that avoid tea due to caffeine, don’t have an excuse!
I am not that keen on herbal or fruit tea infusions either, unless they are added to another ordinary tea or similar. I am however a lover of Earl Grey Tea; it is black tea with bergamot citrus extract. It also has the anti-oxidant properties as it is rich in catechin which promotes healthy digestion, can help lower cholesterol and blood pressure. Sweeten it up by adding some rose bud tea and it can boost the immunity system with its vitamin C. It is also recommended to help prevent urinary infections.
So hot or cold, mix the herbalists or herbs from your kitchen cupboard or garden and what a great way to drink to your health.
Here are some infusions that you can make and keep at the ready for yourself and your guests:
Elderflower (Sambucas nigra) for colds and influenza. Also good for the hair and skin.
Valerian for relieving headaches and migraine, good for nervous tension and insomnia.
Peppermint helps relieve sickness, indigestion, flatulence, stomach cramps and colds.
Parsley acts as diuretic which is used to treat rheumatism, kidney and urinary problems.
Cranberry is good for urinary tract infections.
Raspberry leaves are recommended as a tonic to prevent anaemia.
Dandelion used as a diuretic. It is known to cleanse the blood and for liver, kidney, gout and rheumatic problematic conditions.
Thyme is a natural antiseptic and good for relieving coughs, colds and bronchitis.
Rosemary soothes migraine and headache and stimulates and boosts the circulation. It is also suggested for promoting hair growth.
Nettles act as a diuretic, cleansing the blood, eliminating toxins and good for insomnia.
Honey is good for asthma and allergies, sore throats, coughs, colds and fever.
Here’s to your health ‘drink up’!
Love and Sparkles
Samsara x