In the scorching heat of summer, a glass of chilled shikanji drink can be a refreshing respite. Also known as nimbu pani or lemonade, this traditional Indian drink is delicious and offers a range of health benefits. Let’s delve into the goodness of shikanji drink and why you should consider adding it to your diet.
Key Points
Benefits of Shikanji Drink
1. Hydration
Staying hydrated is crucial for overall health, especially during hot weather or after physical activity. Shikanji drink is primarily made of water, making it an excellent choice to keep you hydrated throughout the day.
2. Vitamin C Boost
Lemons, the key ingredient in shikanji, are loaded with vitamin C, a powerful antioxidant that helps boost the immune system, aids in collagen production for healthy skin, and promotes better absorption of iron from plant-based foods.
3. Digestive Aid
Combining lemon juice, sugar, salt, and spices in shikanji can help improve digestion. Lemon juice stimulates the production of bile, which aids in digestion, while salt and spices can help balance electrolytes and improve gut health.
4. Cooling Effect
Spices like cumin and black salt used in shikanji are known for their cooling properties according to Ayurveda. They can help cool the body and provide relief from the heat, making shikanji a perfect summer drink.
5. Weight Management
Shikanji is a low-calorie drink compared to other beverages like sodas or sweetened juices. It can help quench your thirst without adding excessive calories, making it a good choice for those watching their weight.
6. Replenishes Electrolytes
Sweating in hot weather can lead to loss of electrolytes like sodium and potassium. Shikanji, with its salt and sugar content, can help replenish these electrolytes and maintain the body’s balance.
7. Mood Enhancer
The refreshing taste and aroma of shikanji can have a positive effect on your mood. A glass of chilled shikanji can be a mood lifter on a hot, tiring day.
8. Natural Detox
Lemon juice in shikanji drink acts as a natural detoxifier, helping to cleanse the liver and flush out toxins from the body.
How to Make Shikanji
Making shikanji drink at home is simple. Here’s a basic recipe:
Ingredients:
- 2-3 lemons
- 4-5 cups of water
- Sugar or honey to taste
- Salt to taste
- Roasted cumin powder
- Black salt
- Mint leaves (optional)
Instructions:
- Squeeze the lemons to extract the juice.
- In a pitcher, mix lemon juice, water, sugar, salt, roasted cumin powder, and black salt. Adjust the quantities according to your taste.
- Stir well until the sugar and salt are dissolved.
- Add ice cubes and garnish with mint leaves if desired.
- Serve chilled and enjoy the refreshing goodness of shikanji drink.
Conclusion
Shikanji is not just a tasty summer drink; it’s also a healthy choice packed with numerous benefits. So, next time you need a refreshing beverage, skip the sugary sodas and opt for a glass of homemade shikanji. Your body will thank you for it!