Getting A Jumpstart On Springtime Cleansing
Given the unseasonably warm weather much of the country is experiencing, we’re thinking spring in this post. Spring cleansing that is…
An Old-Age Springtime Cleanse Ritual
The Iroquois and other indigenous tribes of Canada and the northern United States considered maple water to be part of an important spring ritual. They would tap trees and drink the maple sap to not only celebrate the arrival of spring, but to pump their bodies with this wholesome, nutritional liquid straight from mother earth. This water, full of nutrients from the ground, flows through the trees providing them with the vitamins and minerals needed to bring the tree from hibernation (in winter) to bloom (in spring). Imagine what it can do for our bodies!
New-Age Maple Water Cleanse Recipes
Below are a few recipes we developed that combine maple water with our other favorite cleansing, detoxifying and immune-boosting ingredients. Whether you’re looking to tackle a cleanse this spring, fighting the common cold or seeking an all-natural energy boost, these wellness drinks are designed to do it all.
DRINKmaple Wellness Shots
For each shot, combine all ingredients in a Vitamix or high-power blender. Pour into a shot glass or any small glass and enjoy.
Inflammation Fighter
1/2 cup maple water
1 inch fresh turmeric root (can substitute 1 tsp of turmeric powder)
1 inch fresh ginger root (can substitute 1 tsp of ginger powder)
juice of 1/2 lemon
dash of cayenne
The polyphenols found in maple water contain anti-inflammatory properties and have been shown to aid in muscle recovery post-exercise. Turmeric has been touted for hundreds of years for having powerful anti-inflammatory properties, while ginger has been shown to reduce pain and soreness. That touch of cayenne relieves joint and nerve pain.
Beet Fatigue
1/2 cup of maple water
1/4 of a medium sized beet root
1 inch of fresh ginger root
The malic acid in maple water has been shown to help with muscle fatigue and soreness. Beets have been proven to provide energy and boost stamina. We use ginger here for its immune boosting properties.
Rock the Detox
1/2 cup maple water
1 tsp chlorella powder or 15 chlorella tablets
1/2 tsp peppermint oil
Loaded with electrolytes, maple water is hydrating which helps aid in digestion. Chlorella has been shown to boost the immune system and improve digestion. It also helps remove heavy metals in the body such as mercury and lead. Peppermint oil has been shown to soothe digestive issues, improve mental focus and release tight muscles.
Mission Impossible (unpictured)
1/2 cup maple water
1/8 cup fresh beets
1/2 inch turmeric root
1/2 inch fresh ginger root
1/2 inch jalapeño
squeeze of lime juice
In addition to the powerhouse ingredients discussed above, this shot includes two additions that really pack a punch. Jalapeño offers a powerful kick to the palate, in addition to a boost to the metabolism, high levels of antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties. As with most citrus, lime juice has been known to improve digestion.
Activated Charcoal Lemonade
12 oz. (1 bottle) maple water
juice of 1/2 lemon
1 tsp activated charcoal
optional sweeter to taste (such as dash of maple syrup)
Directions: Combine all in a large glass or mason jar and stir. Add ice. Makes 1 serving.
Three simple ingredients, one healthful drink. Activated charcoal is often used as a cleansing mechanism in that it traps toxins and chemicals in the digestive tract, allowing them to be flushed out rather than absorbed by the body. Fresh lemon juice acts as a detoxifier and alkalizer, promoting healthy and smooth digestion. The hydration properties of maple water help with detoxification—and hangovers!
Of course, our favorite way to enjoy the cleansing properties of maple water is pure and simple: straight from the bottle. So cheers to a healthful detox this spring or anytime of year—the old way or the modern way!