I live a lifestyle of detoxification and every chance I get, I share with people why they should do the same. “Detox lifestyle” might sound abstemious, but it simply means that one consumes foods and beverages that aid in digestion, remove toxins from the body, protect the body from cancer and disease, hydrate and help the body to heal.
I want to share with you one of the detoxification drinks I have at least twice a week. Typically I drink 16-20 ounces of this detox tea throughout the day. I call it my special orange juice. The ingredients are: organic lemon (with rind), ginger, turmeric and cayenne pepper. If I have a visitor I will add a little raw honey or agave to sweeten it for them.
I typically blend all the ingredients except the cayenne powder and turmeric in a blender. I add one whole organic lemon with half of the rind with a huge hunk of ginger (with the skin) and about 4-6 ounces of alkaline or mineral water. I remove the bubbles after it blends and I heat it up on the stove. After it is warm I add 1 to 2 tablespoons of turmeric and cayenne powder to a mason jar before pouring in the lemon and ginger mix. I prefer mine to be very spicy. To me it’s always, the spicier the better! Plus, these warming spices make for a perfect fall cleanse addition at this transitional time.
Benefits of Turmeric/ Curcumin – In addition to taking a daily capsule of Super Bio-Curcumin, I supplement my diet by adding Turmeric to almost everything because of the benefits of Curcumin. An important ingredient in Ayurvedic medicine, curcumin benefits every organ system in the body. It is a powerful anti-inflammatory, stabilizes blood sugar levels and is good for brain health.
Benefits of Ginger – Ginger is also used in Ayurvedic medicine. Some of its myriad benefits include maintaining normal blood circulation, improving the absorption and elimination of essential nutrients in the body, calming an upset stomach, a great anti-inflammatory (especially of the colon). It is also an aphrodisiac and strengthens the immune system.
Benefits of Cayenne – Cayenne has amazing anti-fungal, anti-cold and flu, anti-allergen and anti-inflammatory properties. It is also an excellent digestive aid, useful for blood clots, a joint pain reliever and supports weight loss.
Benefits of warm lemon water – Lemon is an excellent source of Vitamin C, which enhances the immune system. The pectin fiber in lemons is good for colon health. Lemons balances the pH levels in the body (though in itself it’s acidic, it is actually alkaline promoting), the potassium content in lemons help nourish brain and nerve cells and it strengthens the liver by providing energy to the liver enzymes.
Related: DIY 3-Day Fall Cleanse Program
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Photo: Giulia Mulè via Flickr
