“French herbal water”, or “eau de plante”, is a refreshing, aromatic beverage made by infusing herbs in water. It’s popular in France and other parts of Europe as a natural and healthy alternative to sugary drinks. These herbal waters are often enjoyed for their potential health benefits and refreshing flavors.
Here’s a simple method to prepare herbal water at home:
Ingredients:
- A handful of fresh herbs (choose from mint, basil, lavender, thyme, rosemary, or sage—herbs commonly used in French herbal waters)
- 4 cups of cold water
- 1-2 teaspoons of honey or another sweetener (optional)
- Lemon slices or lime slices (optional, for extra flavor)
- Ice (optional, for serving)
Instructions:
- Prepare the herbs: Wash the fresh herbs thoroughly. Lightly bruise or crush the herbs using your hands or a muddler to release their essential oils and flavor.
- Infuse the herbs: Add the herbs to a large pitcher or jar and pour the cold water over them. You can add lemon slices or lime slices at this stage for an extra refreshing twist.
- Let it steep: Cover the pitcher and let it sit in the refrigerator for 2-4 hours or overnight. The longer the herbs infuse, the stronger the flavor will be.
- Strain and serve: After infusing, strain out the herbs and any citrus slices. You can sweeten the water with a teaspoon of honey if desired, but this is optional.
- Serve: Pour over ice and enjoy your refreshing herbal water.
Popular Herbs in French Herbal Water:
- Mint (Menthe): Often used for its cooling and digestive benefits, mint adds a refreshing flavor.
- Lavender (Lavande): Known for its calming properties, lavender imparts a floral, soothing taste.
- Thyme (Thym): A herb with a slightly earthy and aromatic taste, often used for its health-promoting properties.
- Rosemary (Romarin): Known for its woody and earthy flavor, rosemary is often used in herbal waters for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
- Sage (Sauge): Often used for its medicinal benefits, sage adds a savory and slightly peppery note to the herbal water.
Benefits of French Herbal Water:
- Digestive Health: Many herbs like mint and thyme aid in digestion and can relieve bloating or indigestion.
- Hydration: Just like regular water, herbal waters help you stay hydrated, and the added herbs provide refreshing and unique flavors.
- Relaxation: Herbs like lavender and chamomile can have calming effects, helping to reduce stress and promote relaxation.
- Antioxidants: Many herbs, including rosemary and sage, are rich in antioxidants, which can help protect your body from oxidative stress.
- Refreshing and Low-Calorie: Herbal water is typically low in calories and free from added sugars, making it a healthy choice for refreshing yourself without extra calories.
Promoting Health and Wellness at Inspiria
At Inspiria, we are dedicated to fostering the health and well-being of our students and faculty through comprehensive wellness initiatives. Our nutrition programs promote balanced eating habits, while our affirmation projects inspire positivity and resilience. By seamlessly integrating wellness into campus life, we create a nurturing environment where everyone can thrive—physically, mentally, and emotionally. At Inspiria, well-being isn’t just a goal; it’s a way of life.
