Flavoring Water with Lime and Basil

Staying well-hydrated allows your body to function properly by flushing toxins out of vital organs and providing nutrients to cells. The Mayo Clinic recommends that men in general require three liters of water per day while women require just over two liters. To increase the benefits of drinking water, nutritious natural ingredients can be added. Lemon is a popular ingredient to add to water, but lime and basil are also great options to add variety to your diet.

The Health Benefits of Lime and Basil

Lime is rich in Vitamin C which has been found to increase cardiovascular and respiratory health, prevent oxidative damage to cells, and improve digestive functions. The soluble fiberfound in limes can also protect the heart, help control diabetes, and encourage weight loss.

Basil contains essential nutrients, flavonoids, and oils that provide:

• Anti-inflammatory effects
• Anti-bacterial properties
• Cell protection against radiation and oxygen-based damage
• Improved cardiovascular health

How to Infuse Water with Lime and Basil

To make lime and basil flavored water, add the juice of one lime and four or five basil leaves to the bottom of a large container. Muddle the basil leaves in the lime juice gently to release the essential oils of the basil. Pour two quarts of water into the container and add slices of a second lime to the container. Stir well and refrigerate for at least an hour before serving. To enhance the flavor of the water, try one of MiraBurst^TM’s miracle berry products which contain the glycoprotein Miraculin before drinking the water. Miraculin is a taste-modifier which transforms the taste of sour and acidic foods to sweet naturally, so your lime basil water be a sweet treat without the use of sugar.