6 Herbal Ways to Flavor Water

While most people are familiar with the official daily fluid intake recommendations, many are far from reaching that goal.

One of the reasons why people are not drinking enough water is that it lacks flavor. However, its neutral taste can be advantageous as it can be easily improved with herbal additives. They not only infuse water with flavor, but also enhance it with important nutrients. Read on to discover 6 herbal ways to make infused water!

1. Lemons & Oranges

Lemons are perhaps the most popular herbal water add-in. While they're great on their own, pairing them with other citrus fruits, such as oranges, will give you give a burst of refreshing flavor as well as a hearty punch of vitamin C. Just keep in mind that leaving the lemon in water for several hours can give it a bitter flavor.

• 1 lemon, sliced
• 1 orange, sliced
• 8 cups of water
  

2. Cucumbers & Mint

Another wonderful idea to flavor your water is infusing it with cucumbers and mint. They are both packed with antioxidants and give the water a very mild, but pleasant flavor. You will particularly enjoy the cooling effects of cucumber and mint water on hot summer days. If you feel like it, you can squeeze in some fresh lime juice, too.

• 1/2 medium cucumber, sliced
• 2 sprigs of mint, bruised
• Juice from 1 lime (optional)
• 8 cups of water

3. Watermelon & Raspberries

Watermelon and raspberries make for delicious herbal add-ins to water. Both vibrantly red and juicy, they will give water a visually pleasing and inviting look that may encourage you to drink it. On top of that, the fruits will infuse it with nutrients and a delicious combination of fruity flavors. Throwing in a few basil leaves may add a lovely aroma.

• 1/2 cup of watermelon, cubed
• 1/2 cup of raspberries
• 5 basil leaves (optional)
• 8 cups of water
  

4. Strawberries & Kiwi

You will really enjoy flavoring water with strawberries and kiwi. It combines strawberries' delicate sweetness and kiwi's revitalizing citrusy tones. Keep in mind that strawberries are some of the most heavily pesticide-sprayed fruits. Buying organic may help you cut down on their amount.

• 10 strawberries, sliced
• 1 kiwi, peeled and sliced
• 8 ups of water

5. Apples & Cinnamon

Apples and cinnamon are commonly featured in a number of seasonal recipes and can also be used to make infused water. This popular and aromatic flavor pairing will particularly hit the spot during colder months, especially if you sip on warm or room temperature water. For a spicier kick, throw in some ginger, an anise star, and a few cloves.

• 2 apples, sliced
• 2 sticks of cinnamon
• 8 cups of water
  

6. Hibiscus & Ginger

If you still wonder how to make water taste better, try using dry herbs, such as hibiscus. You will essentially be making an herbal tea, which can be made ahead and enjoyed warm or chilled in the refrigerator. This herbal duo produces pleasantly tart flavor notes from hibiscus with a powerful punch from fresh ginger.

• 4 tablespoons of dried hibiscus
• 2-inch piece of ginger, peeled and sliced
• 8 cups of boiling water
  

Additional Tips

Besides the aforementioned herbal water add-ins, there are a few others tricks to consider that may help you keep up with your water intake. They include the following:

• Make sure your water is at the right temperature. While it is a matter of preference, we often naturally crave warm beverages in the winter and cold drinks in the summer.

• Keep a stash of ice cubes in your freezer. Besides tasting better, chilled herb-flavored water may also offer additional benefits, including boosting immunity.

• Try using sparkling water. Switch things up a bit by replacing plain water with sparking water. With bubbles and the right flavorings, it can even trick your brain into thinking you are drinking soda. 

• Keep your water fresh. No matter what herbs you use to make infused water, make sure you drink it within 24 hours. Infusing water with fruits or vegetables for longer may affect its flavor and cause spoilage. 


Flavoring water with fruits and vegetables is an easy and inexpensive way to boost your water intake and enhance your nutrition without added sugar and artificial additives. Moreover, there are endless pairing possibilities to try on your quest to finding your favorite combinations. So, say “goodbye” to boredom and “hello” to proper hydration.