Everyone needs a go-to home remedy for sore throats, colds, or sinus infections. There are so many immune-boosting ingredients that you can easily acquire at the grocery store. In the case of this recipe, you need fresh lemons, ginger, turmeric, and cinnamon sticks. If you don’t have access to fresh ginger or fresh turmeric root, you can use ginger or turmeric powder. You will just need to adjust the recipe.
This caffeine-free tea works to enhance immune function, fight infection, boost digestion, and reduce inflammation. The reason that it is called a “detox tea” is because the ingredients support healthy digestion and immune function. Specifically, the lemons are naturally rich in vitamin C, a known antioxidant and immune booster. A quick note is that you can use Meyer lemons for the same benefits, but they have less of a citrusy zing. They are naturally sweeter than most other lemon varieties.
Turmeric contains curcumin, a powerful antioxidant that has the ability to fight infection. Some studies found that it exhibits pain-relieving and cancer-fighting properties. Cinnamon may help to support stable blood sugar levels and exhibits antioxidant compounds that help fight infection. Ginger is excellent for supporting healthy digestion and soothing upset stomaches and sore throats. Finally, if you add the optional cayenne pepper, you’ll increase the anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activity in this detox tea.
- Prep Time:5m
- Cook Time:20m
- Total Time:25m
- Serves: 8 servings
- Category: Full Body Cleanse Approved, Smoothies & Juices, Raw, Vegan, Vegetarian, Gluten-Free
Ingredients
- 6 c filtered water
- 5 -inch piece of ginger root, peeled and sliced
- 3 cinnamon sticks
- 1 tsp. grated turmeric root
- 1/2 tsp. cayenne pepper (optional)
- 6 lemons, halved
Instructions
- Peel the ginger and dice into thin slices. Add the fresh ginger and water to a large pot or saucepan over high heat.
- Bring the liquid to a boil and then reduce to low heat and simmer for about 10 minutes.
- After 10 minutes, add the cinnamon sticks, turmeric, cayenne pepper (optional), and lemon halves. Simmer for an additional 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Remove from heat and allow it to cool slightly before straining.
- This will make about four to five cups of concentrated tea, which you can store in a glass jar in the fridge. Drink it warm or cold.
- When serving, add about 1/4 cup of this mixture to 6 ounces of hot water. You can add the juice of half a lemon for an added zing!
