Ginger lemonade

3 1/2 cups water

1/2 cup maple syrup (high in antioxidants, rich of potassium, calcium, magnesium, zinc and sodium)

2/3 cup chopped fresh ginger

1 cup lemon juice

Fresh mint / lemon balm / pineapple sage leaves for garnishing 

Instructions:

1. In a small saucepan, combine 1/2 cup (120 ml) water, the syrup, and the chopped fresh ginger. Bring to a simmer over medium heat. Once simmering, cook for 10 minutes to extract the ginger flavour. Remove from the heat and let it cool. Strain the mixture.

2. In a glass jar add the lemon juice, remaining water and strained ginger syrup mixture. Stir well and serve it over ice. Garnish with fresh herbal leaves for adding additional flavour and benefits. 

You can keep the lemonade in a sealed container in a refrigerator for up to five days or you can freeze in popsicle molds for a sweet, cold treat. It can also be frozen into ice cubes and added to other beverages.