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This may clash with western beliefs, but drinking hot water is an ancient remedy that’s been used to cure many diseases.  It`s said that small sips of hot water throughout the day increases our defenses, detoxifies the body, improves metabolism, and helps maintain a healthy weight.

Winter is a great time to get into this habit as we feel less like getting a cold drink from the fridge and usually prefer to cuddle up with something warm.

Water- boiled just long enough

The recommended boiling time water for is ten minutes. Water molecules are broken down by the heat and impurities are eliminated. It’s considered to be completely pure water.

Benefits of Hot Water 

• Stimulates appetite.
• Improves digestion.
• Good for the throat.
• Cleanses the bladder.
• Calms hiccups.
• Eliminates flatulence.
• Helps eliminate toxins and impurities.
• Helps to purify the body.
• Lowers fever.
• Relieves cough and congestion.
• Boosts the immune system and prevents disease.
• Improves circulation.
• Helps organ function and basal metabolism.

Drinking water at mealtimes: Yes or No? 

This is a hot-topic debate, and opinions vary depending on who you talk to. Personally, I think if you feel like drinking water while eating, drink it. With that said, try not to drink cold or icy water, since water at that temperature hinders the digestion process. Stick to lukewarm water.

For those who believe it’s better to stay away from water during mealtimes, they also advise against drinking it both half an hour before eating and up to an hour and a half after. Their reason- water lowers our body’s ability to digest food.  I suggest if you usually have problems with bloating, gas, reflux, or other similar issues that you should try to avoid water with meals.

Infusions for everyone 

Spices and plants enhance the effects of hot water and really help make us feel better. Let’s take a look at some examples:

For an extra dose of energy- Matcha Tea 

This is a kind of green tea high in antioxidants. In recent years many people (myself among them) have replaced their morning cup of coffee with this drink as it provides us with energy for the whole day, improves concentration, and reduces stress levels. 

Got insomnia? Have a cup of Chamomile 

Chamomile (Anthemis Nobilis) is one of the most traditional and widely consumed plants in the world for its calming and relaxing properties. Ideally, it should be consumed one to two hours before bedtime. Tip: add a touch of cinnamon to the milk, delicious!

Tulsi Tea for nasal congestion

This sacred herb from India has many important properties, among them are:

• Supports the respiratory system, especially to treat mild colds to bronchitis, and asthma.
• It also strengthens the immune system by acting as an anti-stressor. 
• Its antiviral and antimicrobial properties reduce fevers.
• Improves digestion, very useful during winter where, as we have seen, our digestive system’s capabilities are weaker.
• Thanks to its antioxidants and nutrients, it helps prevent dry skin and hair- also very common in cold weather.

Abdominal bloating? Have some water with ginger. 

This sweet yet spicy spice is perfect for people with slow, heavy digestions. It’s best to choose fresh ginger and grate it before making this infusion in order to keep its properties intact. Tip: Add a few drops of lemon juice for extra goodness.

Moringa, the elixir of youth. 

This plant contains nearly one hundred nutrients and almost 50 antioxidants! It’s considered to be one of the most well-rounded plants for health. Did you know that dried moringa leaves contain 7 times more vitamin C than oranges, 17 times more calcium than milk, and 15 times more potassium than bananas?! Its exceptional nutritional composition makes this plant a great ally in controlling cholesterol levels and blood pressure. Additionally, it protects against cancer and combats cellular aging. This is a basic staple to always have in the pantry.

Tips:

• Let it sit. If you remove the leaves too soon their properties won’t seep into the water. 
• Always choose fresh herbs and plants. You can buy them by weight and in specialty shops.
• Avoid bags without labeling to know what’s in it. We don’t want to buy leaves mixed with other plants as it will dilute the healing properties. 
• Ginger, turmeric, lemon… better fresh: their properties and benefits are better. Just grate them before infusing them in water.
• Avoid sugar and sweeteners: not only are they bad for you but they also mask the real taste of the infusion. If you want to rid yourself of sugar, don’t miss this post.
• Drink your infusion in small sips. Make this moment a ritual to enjoy time with yourself.
• Store herbs in glass jars. It’s best to put them in a cool, dry place away from sunlight and heat sources.