5 Refreshing Iced Tea Recipes to Cleanse Your Body this Summer

To rid your body of toxins and promote overall health, try these fantastic iced tea recipes curated by Dt. Vidhi Chawla.

5 Detoxifying Healthy Iced Tea Recipes for Summer
5 Detoxifying Healthy Iced Tea Recipes for Summer

To combat the heat, iced tea stands out as a fantastic choice, not only for its refreshing taste but also for its health benefits. While store-bought iced tea mixes offer convenience, homemade versions are far healthier. Unlike plain water, iced tea keeps you hydrated and content. With its simplicity, you can create a multitude of refreshing recipes. Moreover, the tea itself boasts an array of antioxidants and nutrients vital for our well-being. Here are 5 detoxifying recipes for summer curated by Dietitian Vidhi Chawla to help you stay refreshed and cleansed.

1. Iced tea infused with the flavors of lemon, ginger, and basil

Basil possesses potent detoxifying properties that can benefit your liver, a crucial organ for metabolism regulation. It aids in preventing fat buildup, thereby promoting liver health. Additionally, basil contributes to restoring normal pH levels in the body and nourishing gut microflora with beneficial bacteria. Ginger, a traditional herbal remedy, offers various benefits including aiding digestion, alleviating nausea, and stimulating appetite.

Iced tea infused with the flavors of lemon, ginger, and basil

  • Cut a lemon in half and squeeze its juice into a large jar or pitcher.
  • Add the lemon halves, a slice of ginger, honey, cardamom powder, and fresh basil leaves to the pitcher.
  • Fill the pitcher halfway with boiling water.
  • Allow the mixture to cool, then remove the ginger, basil, and lemon halves.
  • Optionally, serve over ice and garnish with lemon slices and fresh basil.

2. Iced tea infused with the flavors of peach and ginger

Iced tea infused with the flavors of peach and ginger

Peach Tea is a delightful herbal infusion crafted from the dried leaves and bark of peach trees. Rich in vitamins A, C, E, and K, along with essential minerals like potassium, phosphorus, manganese, and magnesium, it offers a plethora of health benefits. Notably, its vitamin C content aids in wound healing, while its antioxidants bolster the immune system by eliminating harmful free radicals.

  • In a pitcher or pot, combine 1 pitted and sliced peach with 2 green tea bags.
  • Pour 3 cups of hot water over the mixture and add 4 slices of ginger.
  • Allow it to steep for 5 minutes, then remove the tea bags.
  • Refrigerate the mixture for 3-4 hours before serving alongside delicious appetizers.

3. Iced tea infused with the vibrant flavors of hibiscus and pomegranate

Iced tea infused with the vibrant flavors of hibiscus and pomegranate

Pomegranates are renowned for their luscious deep red seeds, which owe their color to anthocyanins, a potent form of antioxidant. These antioxidants play a crucial role in shielding our bodies from DNA damage, allergies, inflammation, heart disease, cancer, and diabetes. Pomegranate also aids in digestive cleansing and boasts numerous detoxifying properties. Human studies indicate that hibiscus extract can enhance liver health by boosting drug-detoxifying enzymes while reducing liver damage and fatty liver.

  • Steep loose tea (or tea bags) in boiling water for 3 to 5 minutes.
  • Strain the tea (or remove the tea bags) and pour it into a large pitcher.
  • Mix in pomegranate juice (or nectar) and cold water.
  • Refrigerate for 2 hours or until thoroughly chilled.
  • If desired, serve over ice with lemon wedges.

4. Iced tea infused with the flavors of lychee and ginger

Lychee fruit boasts high levels of vitamin C, providing over 100% of the recommended daily allowance of ascorbic acid (ABA). ABA serves as a potent immune enhancer, with lychee’s vitamin C content amplifying the activity of white blood cells and shielding the body from harmful bacteria. Additionally, the fiber-rich nature of lychee aids in promoting healthy bowel movements. Ginger, on the other hand, contributes to overall health by combating germs, inflammation, and cancer-causing agents. Incorporating a small amount of ginger into your daily routine can be beneficial.

  • Combine minced ginger, lemon juice, and lychee juice in a glass.
  • Blend the mixture thoroughly with ice and add a pinch of salt to taste.
  • Fill a jar halfway with the concoction.
  • Add sliced grapes and chia seeds to the jar.
  • Mix everything well using a spoon.
  • Finally, serve the chilled drink with a garnish of fresh mint leaves.

5. Iced tea infused with the flavors of spiced orange and anise

Iced tea infused with the flavors of spiced orange and anise

Anise, a commonly used exotic spice in Indian and Chinese cuisines, is known for its digestive benefits, aiding in the treatment of post-meal issues like bloating, gas, indigestion, and constipation. Meanwhile, oranges are rich in Vitamin C, and when paired with green tea, they create a delicious and nutritious beverage.

  • Peel the orange and set the peel aside.
  • In a bottle, combine a tea bag, cinnamon, star anise, and orange peels.
  • Pour boiling water over the mixture and steep for a few minutes.
  • Allow the mixture to cool in the refrigerator for about an hour, then remove the tea bag and serve over ice.
  • Squeeze the orange juice into the tea and garnish with fresh mint.

These recipes, straight from the dietitian herself, are designed to help eliminate toxins from the body easily and effectively. These flavorful iced teas are too delicious to pass up, so be sure to give them a try!