As viral infections are spreading rapidly this monsoon, it’s crucial to focus on building a strong immune system to protect yourself.
Whether it’s a regular day or a party with friends, you can ensure that even your mocktails get a healthy twist.
Ravi Patel, an executive bartender in an Indian hotel, shared, “My go-to option during this time of the year is the Monsoon Shield, a zesty, tropical immunity booster in a glass comprising ginger, basil, fresh orange juice, lime juice and passion fruit. While fresh orange juice gives the vitamin C punch, basil ensures calm and clarity, ginger gives the warmth and lime juice adds that immune kick.”
Here is a healthy mocktail recipe that he shared:
Add a dash of fresh ginger juice, natural anti-inflammatory properties, to your citrus-based mocktails. Ginger helps combat common cold and throat irritations during monsoon. It blends beautifully with lemon, orange, and even mint-based drinks.
Basil, on the other hand, is nature’s shield. Drop in a few muddled tulsi leaves or infuse them into the base of your mocktail. The herb is packed with antioxidants and antimicrobial benefits. It also adds a fresh, herbaceous twist to any drink. Pair it with pomegranate or apple juice for a brilliant blend.
Also, mint is known for being a cooling, calming and cleansing ingredient. Fresh mint leaves aid digestion and ward off bacterial infections. It’s a great detoxifier and pairs wonderfully with cucumber, lemon, or watermelon.
Something sour
Citrus fruits are excellent for boosting the immune system due to their high vitamin C content, which is a powerful antioxidant that supports immune cell function and helps fight off infections. “Our Citrus Splash Elixir is an immunity-boosting mocktail ideal for the monsoon. It blends fresh orange and lemon, both rich in vitamin C, known to strengthen immunity and support collagen production.
A touch of honey or jaggery syrup adds natural sweetness while offering antimicrobial and soothing benefits, long-valued in traditional remedies.
“A pinch of turmeric brings powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Finished with sparkling water and fresh mint, this vibrant elixir is designed to support wellness during rainy days,” said Rajib Maity, a restaurant manager in Bengaluru, India.
Besides ginger, tulsi, and turmeric, you can add amla for vitamin C and mint for detox. Two recommended monsoon drinks: Golden Rain Tonic (turmeric-ginger tea, amla juice, tulsi, honey, soda, mint ice) and Basil Breeze Spritzer, which features crushed tulsi, lemongrass, and lemon zest shaken with tonic and topped with roasted cumin.
The rose way!
To turn a simple drink into a monsoon ritual, try the Shahi Sharbat — made with rose nectar, citrus juice, cardamom, and sparkling water for a soothing, immune-boosting tonic.
Or opt for the Rose and Chia Seed Cooler, blending rose petals, lemon juice, sweetener, and chia seeds for a vitamin C and omega-3-rich refreshment.
Source: Hindustan Times
Bd-pratidin English/FNC
