The weather is warming up, and we will be reaching for that cold refreshing drink. As many of you know, I have had a bout of skin cancer so I will not be downing a drink that will cause excess inflammation, dehydration, and photosensitivity. That said, I will not be reaching for the margaritas, white wine sangrias, mojitos, or spiked lemonades when the sun is out.
Sugar, industrial seed oils, citrus juices, and alcohol can cause excess photosensitivity (i.e., sensitivity to the sun), acidity, free radicals, compromise of healthy bacteria, DNA damage, and AGEs. Instead, I'll be choosing herbal infusions full of flavor that will fortify my skin from the inside out.
Below find ideas and inspirational ingredients that are skin-loving for you to mix and match and sip in your spring/summer time glory.
BAR APOTHICAIRE
BASE
Hibiscus tea: a cooling herb that is high in antioxidants and fights free radicals.
Ginger tea: for a bit of spice, and an anti-inflammatory kick.
Lemongrass tea: detoxifies the body, is anti-inflammatory and reduces swelling.
Sparkling mineral water: choose sparkling water high in minerals and sold in glass bottles to avoid plastic contamination.
Coconut water: contains selenium to protect the elasticity of the skin and keep free radicals at bay. Choose coconut waters that are not from concentrate and contain added sugars.
*Teas are made as "strong teas" or infusions. Add two tablespoons of herb to one liter of boiling water and let it cool for at least two hours. Ideally, you can let it sit overnight. If I feel I need a little added hydration (and running dry), I'll add a little marshmallow leaf and or root, or violet (if you add too much the infusion will become viscous).
MIXERS
Acai berry puree (sugar-free): rich in vitamin C, an antioxidant, that supports the production of collagen and elastin (that the sun can break down).
Apricot puree: contains copper that helps the body produce melanin pigmentation;
Beet puree: contains beta-carotene that converts to vitamin A and protects against UV damage.
Mashed berries (blackberries, raspberries, blueberries): contain copper that helps the body produce melanin pigmentation; zinc to reduce inflammation and redness; anthocyanins to protect DNA damage and skin elasticity.
Ginger root puree/mash: contains copper that helps the body produce melanin pigmentation (needed to protect the skin from sun damage).
Guavas puree: contains copper that helps the body produce melanin pigmentation; zinc to fight inflammation and reduce redness.
Peach puree: contains zinc to fight inflammation and redness of the skin; contains vitamin E that maintains skin moisture and defends against free radicals.
Papaya puree: contains beta-carotene that converts to vitamin A and protects against UV damage; rich in vitamin C, an antioxidant, that supports the production of collagen and elastin (that the sun can break down); contains vitamin E that maintains skin moisture and defends against free radicals.
Mashed Pomegranate seeds: contains copper that helps the body produce melanin pigmentation; rich in zinc to fight inflammation and redness.
Tumeric root (powder or juiced fresh root): aids glutathione, a master antioxidant, and protects against DNA damage.
*All purees are made fresh and free of added sugar. Purees are preferred over juice to retain the beneficial fiber and reduce blood sugar spikes.
BITTERS
Orange peel bitter
Ginger and chamomile bitter
OTHER ADDITIONS
Rosewater
Chlorophyll drops: Chlorophyll detoxifies and feeds good bacteria.
Quinton electrolyte shots
Ice: serve drinks on ice, or blend with ice to make a frozen treat.
Herbal infused honey
GARNISH
Mint, cilantro, or basil leaves and sprigs
Watermelon rind: aids glutathione production (a master antioxidant) and protects against DNA damage.
Goji berries on a stick (unless you had a nightshade sensitivity): a fun chewy little snack and the berries contain copper that helps the body produce melanin pigmentation.
Cantaloupe melon slice: contains zinc to fight inflammation and redness.
Pinch of nutmeg: for that island feeling.
Violet flowers/or other edible flowers: a sensual delight.
Rhubarb stick
MY GO-TO WARM-WEATHER DRINKS:
Tailor the ingredients to your preference
Venus Friday
Hisbiscus tea
1 teaspoon rose water
1 teaspoon puree frozen wild-Maine blueberries
1/4 teaspoon of violet infused honey
Garnish with wild rose petal
Stir and enjoy on ice.
Island Dreaming
Coconut water
1/2 teaspoon of coconut cream (optional)
1/4 teaspoon of ginger root mash
Papaya puree
1 small cube of fresh turmeric root
1/2 banana or 1 date to sweeten (optional)
Blend with ice and serve with a pinch of nutmeg on top.
Green Blessing
Mineral-rich sparkling water
3 drops chlorophyll drops
Muddled mint
Served on ice. So easy, but so good.
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Written by Ashley Bissonnette-Murphy
**These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. This service or product is not intended to diagnose, treat or prevent any disease.**