You’ve probably been hearing a lot about cucumber water lately. The refreshing beverage that was once found almost exclusively at high-end spas is now becoming mainstream. In fact, it’s popping up everywhere from weddings to backyard barbecues.
So what’s so great about cucumber water? Aside from being a great way to add some flavour to your water sans calories, cucumbers are chock full of nutrients like vitamin C, vitamin A, iron, calcium, vitamin K and potassium, points out Livestrong. That means you could be reaping benefits like great skin just by adding some slices to your water. If it sounds easy, that’s because it is.
Of course, you could also get creative with your cucumber water. To help you get in on this tasty trend, we've compiled a list of everything you need to know about cucumber water — including recipes, beauty benefits and how to make your own face wash.
7 Things To Try With Cucumber Water
Make Your Own:
Believe it or not, there are a lot of different ways to make cucumber water. Martha Stewart likes to create alternating bands of peeled and bare cucumber to give it some extra pizzazz. (And you thought all you had to do was throw some slices into a jug of water!)
Soak Out The Flavour:
For maximum benefits, soak the cucumber slices overnight, recommends Livestrong. That will allow enough time for the cucumber’s flavour and nutrients to seep into the water, so you can get the most nutritional bang for your buck.
Cucumber SPF?
It can help protect your skin from sun damage, points out the Detox Lounge. That’s because it’s packed with antioxidants like vitamin C and caffeic acid. As an added bonus, the vitamin C also increases collagen and elastin production, resulting in younger-looking skin.
Face Wash:
To give your skin even more cucumber-y benefits, you can wash your face with cucumber water. It refreshes the skin, closes pores and helps prevent oiliness. If you’re feeling ambitious, you can make your own cucumber cleanser with this recipe from The Times of India. If you’re looking for an easier route, The Body Shop sells a popular cucumber toner – no assembly required.
Cleanse:
It can also help you detox. The Detox Lounge advises its clients to drink a pitcher of cucumber water a day because it helps prevent water retention, thanks to its anti-inflammatory properties. To get even more detox benefits, personal trainer Patty Soud recommends adding lemon, ginger and mint leaves, too, to create what she calls Patty’s Fountain of Youth.
Cucumber Refreshers:
People are even serving it at weddings now. Tumblr has some great photos of how people are classing up their cucumber water these days. From vintage mason jars to vases to pretty pitchers, guests will surely be impressed.
Cucumber Mocktails:
If you're taking a break from alcohol, you can replace margaritas with this refreshing Cucumber Agua Fresca recipe from Bon Appetit. It’s the perfect summer drink to serve alongside soft tacos or fajitas – al fresco, of course.