Building a strong immune system doesn’t always involve face-twisting, nose-pinching, eye-squinting bitter tonics! Thankfully nature has provided some very palatable and delicious ways for us to fortify our health.
This vibrantly delicious recipe is made of ingredients that are rich in antioxidants and antimicrobials helping keep away all those bacteria and viruses.
Pineapples, Oranges & Lemon offer an abundant source of Vitamin C, an antioxidant which helps breakdown mucus, flush out toxins and pathogens. Pineapple’s astringent quality also treat sore throats.
Honey is an effective cough suppressant in respiratory infections and has shown to improve sleep in children who are down with a cold. It also has strong anti-microbial properties.
Ginger is favourite remedy in cold and flus that soothes dry coughs. This anti-inflammatory root helps ease headaches and nausea too.
Mint, a refreshing herb that has potent anti-microbial and antiseptic properties. As an adaptogen, it invigorates the body and helps the body adapt and cope with stress.
Cinnamon is highly regarded as an anti-septic that fights off bacterial, viral and fungal infections. It is analgesic and anti-inflammatory, no wonder it is the ‘go to’ spice in flu season.
Green Tea is a rich source of antioxidants. It is also antiviral and antibacterial know to fend of the flu virus.
Put it all together? IMMUNI-Tea!
RECIPE
INGREDIENTS (popsicles)
- 2 pineapples
- 2 oranges
- 4 tbsp honey
- 2 large ginger stems (roughly 10 cms long)
- 1 handful mint
- 1 lemon
METHOD
- Skin the pineapples and slice in half and remove the core in the middle.
- In a large pot, pour four litres of boiling water and add your skins, the core and ginger and let it boil for 30 minutes.
- When done leave it all to soak and cool off completely for 2 hours or more.
- Strain your juice from the pot and ensure no skin, ginger or core is transferred.
- In your juice mix, add mint, honey and the zest from 1 orange and the zest form 1 lemon.
- Squeeze out the 1 lemon juice as well as the 2 oranges.
- Add mint and stir until well combined.
- Let it rest for an hour and pour into popsicle holder and freeze until set or overnight.
INGREDIENTS (iced GREEN TEA)
- pure green tea
- 1 lemon
- 2 spoons Honey
- 1 tsp. cinnamon
METHOD
- Boil your water and when done allow to rest for 5 minutes before pouring on your teabags.
- Add 1 spoon honey in each cup and ½ teaspoon cinnamon.
- Use half of a whole lemon zest and stir into tea and allow it to cool for an hour or more.
- Place one slice of lemon in your tea cup and refrigerate.
- Serve with your pineapple and ginger popsicles.
If you really want to enjoy this, dip your lollies in the tea first.
Happy dipping and sipping! Don’t forget to share and tag us on Instagram.
