It’s hot, so it’s all about drinking, drinking, drinking. You’re on the lookout for something refreshing. I’ve come up with the perfect summer smoothie for myself. The list of ingredients is short and simple, and above all, locally sourced. Who wants to go hunting for mangoes and pineapples when your own garden has so much to offer? I’ve tried out loads of smoothies and have to say, my digestion isn’t always too keen on them. Personally, I find that some vegetables, such as cabbage, are much easier to digest when cooked or steamed, and a smoothie should also be something made from ingredients that are readily available. So, here’s the smoothie that also provides your skin with a good dose of moisture. You can adjust the quantities to suit your own taste:
- Cucumber
- Berries
- Mint
- Honey
- Water
- (For dry skin: 1 tsp evening primrose oil)
Cucumber
Healthy and easily digestible, worth its weight in gold in summer. It has powerful diuretic properties, is rich in potassium and helps regulate the body’s fluid balance. It helps reduce acidity in the body, lowers blood pressure and cleanses the bowel. According to TCM, it has cooling properties, which means it helps the body to cool itself down.
Berries
Blueberries, raspberries, strawberries, blackberries, redcurrants… are the ultimate anti-ageing foods. They provide vital protection for your cells, help prevent cancer, boost the immune system and reduce the risk of a heart attack. They help prevent skin ageing and promote hair growth. Our berries are THE ultimate superfood!
Mint
It has a cooling and anti-inflammatory effect. It relieves headaches and aids digestion, which tends to slow down on hot days. Generally speaking, it gives the body a little boost without unnecessarily overstimulating it. It refreshes and cools.
Honey
It’s not just about the taste. Honey, when used both internally and externally, is said to reduce sun damage to the skin and body. Furthermore, it has a mild oestrogenic effect.
Water & Evening Primrose Oil
Water enhances the cucumber’s moisture-regulating effect. Thanks to its composition, evening primrose oil helps with brittle fingernails and dry skin. It is particularly effective for people who are prone to atopic dermatitis-like symptoms.
At this point, I’d like to emphasise once again the soothing effects of aloe vera gel. I always use it as a base before applying any other products. It’s a real treat, especially in the evening after a hot day.
