These days, we aren’t just looking for green juices to help us detox from a sugar binge or boost our immunity. Because let’s face it — we want something that’ll make us look as good as we feel. Enter a new generation of elixirs made with wrinkle-fighting, collagen-boosting ingredients. From beta carotene-rich carrots for smoothing over your complexion to avocados for their hydrating and skin-firming properties, these powerful elixirs can help improve your health, inside and out.
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8 Wellness Elixirs for Better Health and Skin
1. Detox Glowing Skin Smoothie
Few drinks pack a one-two punch for boosting skin and promoting better digestion like this smoothie. Blueberries and Greek yogurt help brighten a lackluster complexion, while kale banishes bloat. Freeze bananas and blueberries ahead of time for a creamy and frothy finish that beats any n’ice cream. Photo and recipe: Marzia Aziz / Little Spice Jar
2. Warm Turmeric Cinnamon Milk
If you want that natural glow, consider this golden milk recipe. Curcumin, a naturally occurring compound found in turmeric, has been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties that help safeguard your immune system and make your skin look radiant. Cinnamon steps in to give this steamy morning beverage anti-microbial benefits that can help fight acne and skin irritation. A dash of cinnamon can also help stabilize blood sugar levels. Photo and recipe: Elaine / Flavour and Savour
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3. Carrot Mango Smoothie
Orange is the new green, when it comes to this magical elixir anyway. Packed with beta carotene, vitamins and fiber, this creamsicle-like drink will yield luminous skin. Carrots in the recipe have 210 percent of the average daily recommendation of vitamin A, which stimulates fibroblasts — the cells responsible for boosting tissue that keeps skin smooth and taut. Add a teaspoon of ginger for a spicy kick that also improves your gut health. Photo and recipe: Desi Videva / Tea Cups & Tulips
4. Morning Lemon Chia and Apple Cider Vinegar Elixir
Because of the high concentration of omega-3 fatty acids and fiber in chia seeds, this tangy morning sip will have you feeling full long after breakfast. Omega-3 fatty acids also help keep your skin supple and brighten a dull complexion. And then there’s apple cider vinegar, which steps in with collagen-building B vitamins and vitamin C. Apple cider vinegar also boasts acetic acid — a compound that’s known for aiding the absorption of minerals from foods. The taste may not be for everyone (you’ve been warned), but if you’re looking for nutrient-dense sips, it’s worth getting used to. Photo and recipe: Cassie Johnston / Wholefully
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5. Immunity Tonic
Flu season or not, a healthy dose of vitamin C is necessary year-round to boost collagen, heal wounds and improve immunity. According to the National Institutes of Health, the average woman needs 75 mg of vitamin C daily. And since one lime packs in 19 mg, for example, this citrus explosion of grapefruit, tangerines, lemon and lime will ensure you get more than a day’s worth. Fresh turmeric, ginger and cayenne help balance out the sour flavors of this drink. Photo and recipe: Jessie Snyder / Faring Well
6. Blackberry and Lime Chia Fresca
If you want to change up your H2O game, consider this refreshing chia fresca recipe. Chia seeds absorb water and provide fiber, fat and protein, which makes this the perfect post-workout quencher. Blackberries contain two grams of protein per cup and give this elixir a hint of sweetness and vibrant color. Simply blend together blackberries, lime, a little maple syrup and water. Then, use a cheesecloth or sieve to strain the mixture before combining it with a large jar of chia seeds and water. Photo and recipe: Rita Parente / Cocoon Cooks
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7. Immune Boosting Herbal Tea Blend
This potent immunity booster, which is made with a comforting blend of elderberries, Echinacea and rose hips, is the perfect remedy when you’re dragging. Elderberries are quickly becoming more popular for their cold-fighting, anti-viral properties. Plus, they’ve got a fruity sweet flavor that make ‘em perfect for syrups and elixirs. Rose hips aren’t just in your face cream, either. You can find them infused into cocktails, baked goods and teas, too. Ingesting this healthy elixir may even help plump fine lines and wrinkles. Feel free to use dried or fresh ginger. Photo and recipe: Colleen Codekas / Grow, Forage, Cook, Ferment
8. Pomegranate Beauty Tonic
This pomegranate juice is a fresh take on the green version (you’ll also get an arm workout making this tonic!). Cut the poms in half and squeeze the seeds into a juicer for a healthy dose of nutrients and enzymes that can help protect your skin against sun damage and combat dryness. Note: Preparation can be messy so don’t wear your chicest garb. Photo and recipe: Avra / Love Wild Live Free