Collagen is the structural protein that keeps skin smooth and springy, yet its production naturally declines after our mid-20s. Enter kitchen botanicals: cloves supply eugenol-rich antioxidants that nudge collagen formation, while fresh lemon juice floods the body with vitamin C—an essential co-factor for building new collagen fibers. When we layer in ginger for anti-inflammatory protection, turmeric for additional collagen-boosting curcuminoids, raw honey for hydrating antioxidants, and a few mint leaves for digestive ease (so nutrients absorb better), we have a comforting drink that does far more than quench thirst. A tiny pinch of black pepper enhances curcumin and iron absorption thanks to piperine, and optional aloe-vera juice further supports skin elasticity.

Ingredients Required

(Makes one tall 300 ml serving; double for a thermos.)

• 5–6 whole cloves (lightly crushed)

• ½ fresh lemon, juiced (about 1 tbsp)

• 1 cm slice fresh ginger, thinly sliced or grated

• ¼ tsp ground turmeric (or ½-inch fresh root, grated)

• 1 tsp raw honey (adjust to taste)

• 6–8 fresh mint leaves

• A pinch of freshly cracked black pepper

• 30 ml aloe-vera juice (optional boost)

Procedure

1. Infuse the spices: Bring 250 ml of water to a gentle boil in a small saucepan. Add crushed cloves, ginger, and turmeric; simmer on low for 5 minutes so eugenol, gingerols, and curcuminoids fully steep.

2. Cool slightly: Switch off the heat and allow the liquid to stand 2 minutes—this preserves vitamin C when the lemon is added.

3. Strain & enrich: Pour the infusion through a fine sieve into a mug or heat-safe glass. Stir in honey, lemon juice, black pepper, mint leaves, and aloe-vera juice.

4. Top-up: Add 50 ml room-temperature water to bring the drink to a pleasantly warm—not scalding—sipping temperature.

Total active time: ≈10 minutes.

Instructions (How & When to Drink)

1. Morning glow: Sip slowly on an empty stomach to maximise nutrient uptake and kick-start digestion.

2. Hydration hack: Follow the drink with a full glass of plain water; vitamin C helps your body utilise the extra hydration for skin plumpness.

3. Frequency: Enjoy 4–5 days a week; cycle off for two days to keep flavours exciting and avoid palate fatigue.

4. Storage: If preparing a larger batch, refrigerate up to 24 hours; re-warm gently—avoid boiling—to preserve enzymes and vitamin C.

5. Custom twists:

   • Add 1 tsp chia seeds for extra omega-3 and fibre (they gel nicely in lemon water).

   • Swap mint for holy basil (tulsi) during monsoon for added antimicrobial benefits.

Benefits of the DIY Collagen Drink