We are in the height of summer, which means it's time to hydrate! hydrate! hydrate! Spending a lot of time in the heat without proper hydration can lead to issues like prickly heat, heat exhaustion, heat stroke, and dehydration. In this post, I will share some of my favorite herbal iced teas to make during the summer, which not only hydrate but also provide additional health benefits.
1. Cucumber Mint Green Tea
This tea is perfect in the summertime with lots of ice. Cucumber is a botanical fruit made of 95% water, which makes it perfect on its own for some edible hydration! It is high in electrolytes like potassium, which are effective in helping to regulate blood pressure. Mint adds a refreshing kick that aids in digestion, helps with respiratory issues, and can improve brain function.
3-4 liters of water
4-5 bags green tea (or loose tea)
2 cucumbers, shredded
1 bunch of mint
Honey to taste, or sweetener of choice
Ice
-Steep the green tea in your water according to package directions, along with cucumber and mint. Cover and allow to cool to room temperature. Strain out any solids and add the sweetener of your choice to the level of sweetness you prefer. Mix thoroughly and pour into a pitcher over ice. Enjoy!
Bonus: Adding a few lemon slices provides the perfect zing to take this tea to the next level!
2. Watermelon Hibiscus Tea
Watermelon Hibiscus Tea is one of my favorites, because it is a dear pastime of mine to enjoy cold watermelon during the hot spring and summer months. Watermelon is another fruit that is made mostly of water, around 92%, and has beneficial electrolytes like potassium and magnesium. Watermelon has also been shown to help improve heart health and reduce inflammation. Hibiscus is a beautiful flower that offers a host of medicinal benefits on its own, including weight loss management, heart health support, and lowering blood pressure. The astringent flavors of hibiscus add a beautiful balance to the sweet watermelon.
3-4 liters of water
1lb watermelon, blended
4-5 bags hibiscus tea (or loose tea)
Honey to taste, or sweetener of choice
Ice
-Steep your hibiscus flowers in water according to package directions, or until the tea has fully steeped, about 10-15 minutes. Allow to cool to room temperature. Stir in watermelon puree and sweetener. Set to the side for 20 minutes and strain solids. Pour into a pitcher over ice. Enjoy!
Bonus: Adding in a few basil leaves with the watermelon gives a light herbal flavor to this tea for a nice balance.
3. Citrus Melon Tea
Citrus fruits, lemons in particular, are widely popular for summertime drinks. Not only is it tasty, but it also provides several benefits, like boosting the immune system, promoting healthy skin, and helping with iron absorption. When combined with a sweetener, it has the perfect balance of tangy and sweet. Melons, as a group, contain high levels of electrolytes and water, making them helpful in staying hydrated and maintaining blood pressure. They are also rich in lycopene, a powerful antioxidant that aids in the prevention of chronic diseases. Any kind of melon can be used here, because they are all equally beneficial!
3-4 liters of water
5 lemons, peeled and crushed (lemon tea bags also work!)
1lb of melon of your choice, blended (e.g., honeydew, cantaloupe, watermelon)
Honey to taste, or sweetener of your choice
Ice
-In a large pot, combine lemons or lemon tea and water. Allow to steep 10-15 minutes. Remove from the heat and stir in the melons and sweetener. Cover and allow to cool to room temperature. Strain out all of the solids and pour into a pitcher over ice. Enjoy!
Try out the tea that sticks out to you and let us know if you enjoyed it. Stay cool and stay hydrated!