A light, refreshing infusion made by steeping cucumber slices, fresh lemon, and mint in cold water. This natural beverage enhances hydration, supports digestion, and offers subtle cleansing properties—ideal for daily sipping or post-meal refreshment.
Preparation Time
- Prep time: 5 minutes
- Infusion time: 30 minutes minimum (up to 12 hours in the refrigerator)
- Total time: 5–10 minutes active, best after steeping
- Servings: 1 liter (4 cups)
Ingredients
- 1 liter (4 cups) filtered or spring water
- 1/2 cucumber, thinly sliced (with or without peel)
- 1/2 lemon, thinly sliced
- 5–6 fresh mint leaves, lightly bruised
- Optional: a few ice cubes for serving
Instructions
- Add cucumber, lemon, and mint to a large glass pitcher or bottle.
- Pour in the water and gently stir.
- Let sit in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving. For stronger flavor, infuse overnight.
- Strain before drinking if desired. Consume within 24–36 hours for best flavor and nutrient retention.
Estimated Nutritional Value (Per 250 ml glass)
| Nutrient | Approximate Value |
|---|---|
| Calories | < 5 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | < 1 g |
| Vitamin C | Trace–5% DV |
| Antioxidants | Present (trace amounts from lemon, mint, cucumber) |
| Hydration index | High |
Health Benefits
1. Improved hydration
Adding flavor from real fruits and herbs encourages increased water intake, supporting all physiological systems including circulation, thermoregulation, and digestion.
Reference: Popkin BM et al. (2010). Water, hydration, and health. Nutrition Reviews.
2. Digestive and metabolic support
Mint and lemon may help stimulate bile flow and reduce minor indigestion or bloating. Cucumber offers mild diuretic and anti-inflammatory effects.
Study: Pittler MH & Ernst E. (1998). Peppermint oil in digestive disorders. British Journal of Clinical Pharmacology.
3. Antioxidant and cleansing properties
Lemon peel and cucumber skin provide small amounts of polyphenols and flavonoids, which help counteract oxidative stress and support detoxification enzymes in the liver.
Source: Guimarães R et al. (2011). Bioactive properties of citrus peels. Food Chemistry.
Tips for Best Results
- Use organic produce if keeping the peels on (especially for lemon and cucumber).
- Bruise or twist the mint leaves before adding to release more essential oils.
- Add ice just before serving to preserve the freshness of herbs.
- Do not let it sit too long with lemon slices (over 24 hours) as the bitterness from the rind may intensify.
- Strain and reuse: The ingredients can be re-infused once more with fresh water if used the same day.
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