Collagen is the protein that keeps skin smooth, springy, and youthful, yet its production naturally slows after our mid-20s. That’s where simple kitchen botanicals come in. Cloves bring eugenol-rich antioxidants that act as a skin active to help stimulate new collagen production, while fresh lemon juice delivers vitamin C, a crucial co-factor for building collagen new fibers.
Add ginger for anti-inflammatory support, turmeric for additional new collagen-boosting compounds, raw honey for hydration and antioxidants, and a few mint leaves to aid digestion so your body absorbs nutrients more efficiently. A pinch of black pepper enhances the absorption of curcumin and minerals, and optional aloe-vera juice supports skin elasticity. This drink is perfect for skin care and does more than just quench thirst—it’s a true skin care and hair care ally.
Ingredients (for one 300 ml serving; double for a thermos)
- 5–6 whole cloves (lightly crushed)
- ½ fresh lemon, juiced (≈1 tbsp)
- 1 cm 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)
Method
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 the skin active compounds fully steep.
2. Cool slightly
Turn off the heat and let the liquid sit for 2 minutes to preserve the vitamin C before adding lemon juice.
3. Strain & enrich
Pour the infusion through a fine sieve into a mug. Stir in honey, lemon juice, black pepper, mint leaves, and optional aloe-vera juice.
4. Adjust temperature
Add 50 ml of room-temperature water to reach a comfortably warm drinking temperature.
Total active time: ~10 minutes
How & When to Drink
- Morning glow: Sip slowly on an empty stomach to maximize nutrient absorption and promote clearer skin.
- Hydration boost: Follow with a glass of water; vitamin C helps retain hydration for plumper, healthier skin.
- Frequency: Drink 4–5 days a week; take a break for two days to keep flavors fresh.
- Storage: Refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Rewarm gently without boiling to preserve enzymes and vitamin C.
Optional twists:
- Add 1 tsp chia seeds for omega-3s and fiber.
- Swap mint for holy basil (tulsi) for added antimicrobial benefits.
Benefits of the Clove & Lemon Collagen Drink
- Boosts new collagen: Vitamin C from lemon works with clove antioxidants to regenerate collagen new, helping reduce fine lines and improve firmness.
- Fights premature aging: Curcumin in turmeric blocks elastase, while gingerols combat inflammation—supporting skin care for fine lines and wrinkles.
- Brightens complexion: Raw honey evens skin tone and imparts a dewy glow for skin care for skin.
- Enhances nutrient absorption: Piperine in black pepper improves bioavailability, making every sip an effective for skin care routine.
- Supports gut-skin health: Mint aids digestion, promoting clearer skin through better detoxification.
- Improves skin elasticity: Aloe-vera juice strengthens skin care for smooth skin and may help minimize wrinkle appearance.
This clove-and-lemon drink blends time-tested Ayurvedic wisdom with modern nutrition science, making it a simple, budget-friendly ritual to maintain skin care, boost new collagen, and achieve naturally radiant, youthful skin. Sip, glow, repeat!
