How to prepare a refreshing mint drink to strengthen children's immunity
A mint drink is an easily digestible and soothing natural drink for toddlers, relieving reasons for digestive distress and stomachaches. What follows are preparations for making this drink safely and enjoyably for kids:
Ingredients:
- A sprinkle of fresh mint leaves (about 10-15 leaves)
- Two cups of water (500 ml)
- A dessert spoon of natural honey (for children over the age of one year old, may use this one)
Method:
Washing the mint: One should give several mint leaves a thorough wash with running water, effectively cleaning away foreign matter or dirt.
Boiling the water: Put water into a saucepan and place it on the fire. Wait for it to boil.
Adding the mint: After the water comes to a boil, put the leaves of fresh mint into the boiling water, and shut the flame afterward. Close the lid of the saucepan and allow the mint to soak for 5-10 minutes. This allows for the extraction of the essential oils.
Straining: Strain this concoction, thereby discarding mint leaves, and ensuring that there are no tiny fragments left over, which may be unacceptable for kids.
Sweetening (optional): If the child is over one year of age, then he may use a dessert spoon of natural honey to sweeten up his drink. One has to stir the solution very well until the honey completely dissolves.
Cooling: Let the drink cool down until it is ready for the toddler to sip. This can then be optionally served warm or cold.
Tips:
Age-appropriateness: Honey should not be given to children under the age of one to minimize the risk of food poisoning.
Allergies: Check to ensure that this child does not react to mint before serving him the full drink.
Storage: This drink is better served fresh, but can be refrigerated for 24 hours maximum if necessary.
Benefits of Mint Drink for Children
Stomach Soothing: Mint soothes the stomach and reduces gas and bloating.
Digestion Improvement: It helps to speed up the digestive process, lessening many digestive problems.
Immunity-Builder: It includes the antioxidants that aid one in boosting their kid's immunity.
Important: One should seek professional advice if one is interested in introducing a new herbal drink into the child's diet, especially when he or she has a certain health complaint or if the child has been prescribed certain medications.
For added benefit, you could view this video on how to make lemon juice with mint, which is so tasty and nutritious for kids.