Have you ever had those fancy flavored waters at the store? They’re definitely delicious and refreshing, but they’re also pretty pricey too. Luckily, making your own herbal-infused water at home is one of the easiest things to do and it’s so much more beneficial to your body than buying the varieties at the store.

Herbal-infused water can help relieve tension headaches, curb your sweet tooth, give you a little burst of energy, and even aid digestion depending on which herbs you use. Herbs are potent little plants that don’t get enough credit these days if you ask me. Some are even richer in antioxidants than the most popular fruits and vegetables.

Here’s all you need to do to make your own herbal-infused water at home:

1. Buy Organic Herbs

It’s important to choose organic herbs whenever you can, since herbs are sprayed with a good bit of pesticides in conventional form. If you can’t buy organic, then see about growing your own at home. Growing your own herbs at home is one of the easiest things to do and can even be done in your own kitchen. Whether buying herbs from the store or growing your own, choose some of the best, including basil, oregano, mint, lemon balm, thyme, sage, and rosemary. You can also use lavender, rose water extract, orange peels, lemon peels, and lime peels to add even more flavor and health benefits. Also be sure you know how to store your herbs properly for multiple uses.

2. Use Filtered Water

If you can’t afford a pricey water filtration system, that’s OK. At least try to use a filtered water pitcher, which you can get for around $20. It will will make your drinks taste better and be less toxic to your body.

3. Infuse Your Water

Choose a mix of herbs and use about five or six stalks or leaves in a large six-cup water pitcher. I like to use basil, mint, lavender, and lemon peel most of the time. For more savory flavors, go with oregano, sage, thyme, and rosemary and perhaps add a lemon slice to round out the taste. Experiment with using different herbs and see which ones you like. Place the herbs either in an infuser or just into the water pitcher and let them soak at least eight hours. Enjoy for two or three days for a flavor-rich, low-cost, highly nutritious beverage.

I love serving mine over ice, but you could easily warm this up to make a tea as well. Have you ever made your own herbal infused water?

Image source: Wikipedia