We’ve been there. You know you need to hydrate, but you’re tired of boring plain water. Did you know there’s a way to spice up your water AND do your body a favor? Yep, you can make your very own nutrient-packed ice cubes! 

Ahead, we’ll teach you how to make our triple-threat recipes: Antioxidant Ice Cubes, Cognitive Boost Ice Cubes, and Immunity Ice Cubes. These are perfect for spicing up your hydration routine while sneaking in some health-boosting benefits. Looking to fight off pesky colds or help maintain energy levels? We got you. Each cube boasts a mix of fresh ingredients and powerful antioxidants to keep you feeling your best. So get out your ice-cube tray, and let’s dive in. 

Why These Recipes Work

• They’re Easy to Prep: These 3 simple recipes require only a handful of nutritious ingredients.
• They’re Great for Daily Use: Pop in a cube (based on whatever you feel you need) for an extra health boost each day.
• They’re Backed by Research: We’ve filled these cubes with antioxidant-rich ingredients like blueberries, fresh ginger, and matcha powder, each with science-proven health benefits.
• There’s a Variety of Benefits: There’s something for everyone, whether you’re looking to boost immune function for flu season, achieve cognitive enhancement, or simply improve your general vitality.

 

All About Antioxidants

Antioxidants are basically like a suit of armor for our cells. They protect them from oxidative stress and harmful free radicals. So, including antioxidants in your diet is a good way to support immune health, cognitive function, and even skin health. These nutrient-rich ice cubes are our sneaky little way of introducing more antioxidants into your daily diet. They’re the perfect addition to any wellness routine, especially during the colder months when a healthy immune system is, perhaps, most important.

 

Antioxidant Ice Cubes

A great way to prevent disease, reduce inflammation, and improve the appearance of your skin.

Ingredients

• 2 pounds of blueberries, fresh or frozen
• 1 cup fresh mint leaves
• 2 lemons, juiced
• 1 tsp CBD oil (optional)
• ¼ cup raw honey

Instructions

1. Blend: In a high-speed blender, add the blueberries, mint, and lemon juice. Blend until smooth and completely pulverized.
2. Strain: Use a cheese cloth or a muslin cloth to strain the mixture into a bowl.
3. Mix: Stir in the (optional) CBD oil and raw honey until well combined.
4. Freeze: Pour the mix into an ice cube tray and freeze until solid.

Add 2 or 3 ice cubes to a glass of coconut water or plain water and enjoy!

 

All About Cognitive Benefits

Our Cognitive Boost Ice Cubes are made up of matcha and lion’s mane mushroom powder, two powerhouse ingredients that are known to enhance focus, clarity, and memory. Here’s how each contributes to your cognitive health:

• Matcha: This green tea powder is rich in L-theanine, an amino acid that promotes a calm yet alert state, which is great for anyone looking to sustain focus without feeling jittery. Matcha also contains a gentle dose of caffeine, which (unlike coffee) releases slowly to give steady energy without the crash. It’s also a great ingredient if you’re looking to enhance your concentration and maintain your energy levels naturally. Plus, matcha is loaded with antioxidants, which support overall brain health by reducing oxidative stress.
• Lion’s Mane Mushroom: Known for its cognitive-enhancing properties, lion’s mane mushroom contains compounds that encourage the growth of new brain cells, which can boost memory and learning. Studies also suggest that lion’s mane can support mental clarity and long-term neuroprotective benefits. Lion’s mane has also become quite popular for its prebiotic properties which benefit gut health.

Disclaimer: Lion’s mane mushroom is generally considered safe, but it may not be suitable for everyone, like those with mushroom allergies, people with certain medical conditions (such as bleeding disorders), or those taking blood-thinning medications. Pregnant or breastfeeding individuals should also consult with their doctor before use. Always check with your healthcare professional before taking any supplements, even natural ones.

 

Cognitive Boost Ice Cubes

Give your brain a boost with just a few fantastic ingredients!

Ingredients

• 2 Tbsp matcha powder
• ¼ cup lion’s mane powder
• 400 ml boiling water

Instructions

1. Mix Powders: In a heat safe bowl or pot, whisk together the matcha and lions’ mane powders until well combined.
2. Add Water: Pour boiling water over the powder mixture and whisk thoroughly until smooth.
3. Freeze: Pour into (heat-safe, like silicone) ice cube molds and freeze until solid.

Drop 2-3 cubes into a glass of cold or warm coconut, almond, or regular milk for a creamy, energizing boost.

 

All About Immunity Boosters

Our Immunity Ice Cubes feature turmeric, ginger, lemon, honey, and carrot, ingredients that are well-known for supporting immune health, especially during winter months when the risk of illness is higher. Here’s how each boosts your immune system:

• Turmeric: This bright yellow spice has powerful anti-inflammatory properties, thanks to its active compound, curcumin. Research shows that turmeric can also help boost immune response and reduce inflammation.
• Ginger: A staple of traditional herbal remedies, fresh ginger contains compounds called gingerols that, like turmeric, also help reduce inflammation. What’s more, they also provide relief for sore throats. Ginger is also good at supporting digestion and helping to fight off germs, making it an obvious choice for this immune-boosting recipe.
• Lemon: Packed with vitamin C, lemon is a potent immune-supporter that also acts as a natural antioxidant. Lemon juice can help to fight off pesky colds and boost the body’s defense system, while also adding a refreshing flavor.
• Honey: Raw honey has antimicrobial properties and can soothe a sore throat. For this reason, it’s used a lot in immunity shots and warm drinks. Honey is also rich in antioxidants and adds a natural sweetness to these cubes to balance out the stronger flavors, like ginger and turmeric.
• Carrot: Rich in vitamin A and other vital nutrients, carrots help support immune health through its many antioxidants, which assist in reducing cellular damage and improving overall health.

 

Immunity Ice Cubes

A quick and easy herbal remedy to support your health as your top priority.

Ingredients

• ½ lemon, peeled and sliced
• 1 carrot, chopped
• 1 thumb-sized piece of fresh turmeric or 1 tbsp turmeric powder
• 2 thumb-sized pieces of raw ginger
• 1 orange, peeled and sliced
• ¼ cup honey
• 1 tsp cayenne pepper

Instructions

1. Juice: Using a juicer, juice the lemon, carrot, turmeric, ginger, and orange.
2. Add Flavor: Stir in the honey and cayenne pepper until well combined.
3. Freeze: Pour into an ice cube tray and freeze until solid.

When ready, add 2-3 immunity ice cubes to a little hot water and let melt for a quick immunity shot to ward off cold-season blues.

 

Tips for Maximum Wellness

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh ginger and turmeric provide better immune support than their powdered counterparts.
• Make in Batches: Freeze a few trays and store for easy access during the winter season.
• Vary the Liquid: Mix cubes in coconut water, unsweetened fruit juice, or even hot water for a unique twist.
• Sweeten Wisely: While raw honey brings its own immune benefits, but feel free adjust based on taste.

 

FAQs

Can I use different ingredients for these recipes?
Definitely! Swap ingredients as you like. Add kale, other citrus fruit, or even coconut milk for a creamy twist.

Do I need a high-speed blender?
While not strictly necessary, a high-speed blender does help pulverize ingredients like ginger root and blueberries to make smoother juice.

How often should I use these cubes?

Use these on a daily basis or whenever you feel like your immune health or energy need a little boost!
Can I substitute dried ingredients?
Fresh is always best for maximum nutrients, but in a pinch, dried ingredients work too. Just remember they may be more concentrated.

Are these safe for kids?
Most of the ingredients are safe for older children, but skip the CBD oil and cayenne pepper for younger ones.

 

What Will You Put in Your Wellness Cubes?

We want to hear all about what you’ll be putting in your own Immunity, Cognition, and Antioxidant cubes! Leave us a comment letting us know!

 

More Ways to Use Food as Medicine

• Rose and Maca Chocolate Bark Recipe for an Adaptogenic Body Boost
• How to Make Your Own Homemade Fire Cider Tonic to Fight the Common Cold
• Salmon & Creamy Spinach with Mushroom Sauce Recipe for Seasonal Affective Disorder
• Seared Salmon Salad with Baked Crispy Chickpeas & Fresh Strawberry Vinaigrette Recipe to Improve Cognition