A Refreshing Basil & Thyme Coconut Water Limeade

If you are reading this in mid to late summer, depending on the part of the globe where you reside, the summer heat may be as strong as it gets. This means that staying hydrated during this time is more important than ever. But we hear you—drinking plain water in the necessary amount of 2-3 liters per day can be quite challenging. Finding more ideas for delicious and refreshing beverages is a fun way to keep our bodies well hydrated, and can call upon our creative use of herbs and botanicals. This coconut water limeade is a refreshing alternative to plain water, with added benefits! 

Our bodies regulate internal temperature and prevent overheating by producing sweat. However, sweating causes us to lose both water and essential minerals such as magnesium and potassium, which are crucial for the optimal function of our nervous and cardiovascular systems. It is important to replenish those important minerals by drinking mineral water or adding mineral drops to our drinks, especially since our foods are not as rich in minerals as they once were. Choosing organic produce is another way to consume more minerals with our food, since organic farms are more conscious of adding essential nutrients back into the soil (Haas, 2006).

Basil and Coconut Water Limeade Ingredients

In order to keep up with your intake of minerals and boost hydration, try adding more fresh watery fruits and vegetables into your diet during the hot summer season. Cucumbers are a great way to do this. They might not be as nutrient dense as kale (which you can totally add to this limeade while making the juice, by the way), but they still have more to offer than a glass of plain water. 

Coconut water is another ingredient that will help us stay refreshed during the summer. Choose organic coconuts or coconut water from the store—be sure to check the ingredients list for added sugars or flavorings. Coconut water is rich in minerals and electrolytes like potassium, calcium, manganese, and antioxidants. This is great news in terms of hydration.

Adding fresh herbs to your summer beverages (and culinary creations) adds extra flavor, taste, and health benefits. Nutrient-dense herbs are often abundant in farmer’s markets during the warmer times of year.  In addition, organizing a little windowsill or balcony garden with your favorite herbs could make enjoying the benefits of freshly picked herbs on a daily basis even easier. Besides, even some occasional and small in-city-apartment gardening can contribute to lower stress levels overall. Getting our hands into the soil is a great way to feel more in tune and connected to the Earth and the natural world we live in. 

Thyme (Thymus vulgaris) descends from the wild thyme of southern Europe; it is now cultivated worldwide. The constituent thymol, a volatile oil in thyme, is a strong antimicrobial. For this reason, thyme may be applied as an antifungal. Thyme is an excellent tonic, especially for the respiratory system; it is used as a respiratory support, as in cases of chest and throat infections, and is a useful expectorant. Also, as an antispasmodic, thyme helps open and relax air passages (Chevallier, 2021). This makes it extra helpful for hot summers as the density of oxygen is lower in high heat environments and breathing can become more challenging to some people. 

Sweet basil (Ocimum basilicum), also known as basil, is likely native to India. Over 150 varieties are now grown around the world. Basil is enjoyed for its appealing flavor and the taste, aroma, and the benefits of its volatile oils. Sweet basil has a mildly sedative action; its indications include nervous irritability, depression, anxiety, and difficulty in sleeping (Chevallier, 2021).

A Refreshing Basil & Thyme Coconut Water Limeade

In Closing,

Try this particular recipe, but then also experiment with new juice combinations. Try apple, spinach, pear, try different herbs or switch citruses, from lime to grapefruit. The green market and the kitchen is your playground, and the idea of drinking something hydrating, nourishing and fun at the same time is within your reach. Caring for yourself should be extra special – because you are!

REFERENCES

Chevallier, A. (2021). Encyclopedia of herbal medicine: 550 herbs and remedies for common ailments. Dorling Kindersley.  

Haas, E.M., & Levin, B. (2006). Staying healthy with nutrition: The complete guide to diet and nutritional medicine. Celestial Arts.