I came across a great tip in my reading (Dr Weil’s Self Healing Newsletter): mint water! To make it, add a couple sprigs of fresh mint to a container of water and let it sit at room temperature overnight. Simple and delicious!
I grow mint in a pot because it spreads so quickly that when planted in the ground it can become a pest. Growing it in a pot contains it and gives you fresh mint whenever you want it.
I mostly have used mint in summer salads. I also use it with other fresh herbs, ground up with peppercorns and garlic as a rub for lean cuts of beef.
I had tried making fresh mint tea before, but it always came out strong and bitter. So I was delighted to come across the suggestion to just let it sit in water for several hours at room temperature. It keeps the flavor soft and delicate. I actually prefer drinking it at room temperature as well, but it would also be good chilled.
Adding a little flavor to water can make it easier to drink more. I like the idea of adding the mint, because besides tasting great it adds extra nutrients. I’m not sure how much you actually get in mint water, but I figure every little bit adds up! Check here for some of the beneficial properties of peppermint.
Mostly I like it because it is so refreshing. Try it!
Find more nutrition tips on my website and in my monthly newsletter, the Wellness News: http://healthyhabitscoach.com
for a great substitute to peppermint schnapps when you don’t want the calories or the alcohol use pure peppermint extract (just a drop or two) to water or club soda on ice. Yummy ..gives the flavor of a sweet treat. Mint water is good for an upset stomach or indigestion (as is ginger) as well.
I like it strong
The secret to mint tea is to do it as the Moroccans do see this site for that … authenic Moroccan mint tea is a delight. Do not use black tea
http://www.grouprecipes.com/54985/moroccan-tea-moroccan-mint-tea.html
Mint tea- use only the leaves – the stems are bitter.
In your morning cup of tea (Green) drop in a pinch of dried Rosemary OR Thyme, this sparkles up the tea no end and adds variety plus the benefit of the herbs.
Great idea. It would smell great too.
Oh! Thank you for another great idea! I’ll try using the sun tea method when we actually get some sun in a couple of months!
Two articles and I can see you’re a keeper Kathy! Thanks for doing what you do.
Maija
Thanks Maiija, I love hearing that!
I tried some Metromint water today and was delighted at how refreshing it is. I plan to make my own from now on. Great stuff!
I have some in the fridge now. I used a mint called “cotton candy” which lends itself well to beverages. I also added a few slices of cucumber and a splash of lime juice. Can’t wait to try it.
Interesting! Sounds good. That reminds me- I have a chocolate mint in my garden. I should try that! Lemon mint would also be good. Thanks for sharing, Kathy
The pure mint extract has 89% alcohol. Is it safe to add to your water throughout the day?
Good question – I don’t really know. You would only add a drop or two, so in theory the volume is pretty small. Unless you drink alot as you mention – so it could add up. I do use extracts in cooking, but I prefer fresh mint for my water. Kathy
Hello! Thank you for doing this! I am a herb grower and a lover of herbs. I like to rinse my mouth out with mint water. Makes a wonderful mouthwash, too!!!
Today was my first time grinking (Metromint water) i will continue to do this and make my own. Thanks everyone for the good advise, something to keep around.
Sumaiyya Clement
Tampa Fl.
I juice 10 sprigs in an Omega 8003 and add it to 1 liter of RO water; it’s a refreshing day long sipper.
Mint-Water has lot of health benefits as it contains lot of nutrients, it contains vitamins and minerals and it can build your immune health.
I make 1 gallon of mint water at a time. I use it as a final rinse in my hair after conditioning. I don’t rinse it out. I also put some in a spritz bottle and use it on dry hair, or as a refreshing pick-me-up on my face and arms (be sure to close your eyes!).
Great ideas – thanks!