Citrus Detox Water
Make Detox Water with just 5 ingredients! Throwing fruits and veggies into plain water adds so much flavor and makes hitting that daily water requirement so much easier.

Let's be honest. Water can be pretty boring sometimes, so why not dress it up by adding fruits and veggies? Use whatever you have on hand and whip up a batch or two so you'll have some on hand throughout the week. You can even dress it up with herbs and spices to make it your own!
Now, don't get hung up on the word detox. The main benefits of detox water and infused waters are exactly the same as the benefits of drinking it plain. They just make it more fun to drink! Want to learn more about the science of this? Check out this article from Healthline. Here's the bottom line.
"The idea that you can speed up and improve your body's detox pathways by drinking detox water is false. That said, it is still a healthy drink with a few health benefits. Nevertheless, you could probably get most of these benefits from drinking real water. However, people often find plain water boring. If infusing your water with fruits and vegetables means that you drink more water and less sugary drinks, then it can only be a good thing."
What is detox water?
Detox water is simply water that has been infused with fruits, vegetables, fresh herbs, spices, and more. It is also called infused water, fruit water, or spa water.
Many people make this when they are looking to improve their health or lose weight, which is why fruit-infused water came to be known as a detox drink. Some people claim that infused waters can help to alkalize the body or remove toxins, another reason for the detox name, but research shows that regular water accomplishes this in the same way.
How to Make Detox Water
This is where things get fun! There are so many different ways to make infused waters using all kinds of fruits, vegetables, fresh herbs, spices, and even some fun boosts. Simply grab your water, add any combination of the following ingredients, and let it sit for at least 15 minutes (ideally longer) so the flavors can steep. Slightly crushing or squeezing the ingredients can also help create a stronger flavor more quickly..
- Choose your fruits and/or vegetables: Cucumber, celery, lemon, blackberries, strawberries, orange, grapefruit, limes, watermelon, apples, cantaloupe, kiwi, pineapple, pears, or mango are all great options.
- Grab some fresh herbs: Mint, cilantro, basil, thyme, rosemary, fennel, Thai basil, lemongrass, lemon balm, ginger, turmeric, or dill are all popular. Dried herbs can also work, but the flavor will not be as refreshing.
- Consider these boosts: Get creative with fun additions like cayenne pepper, black pepper, apple cider vinegar, chia seeds, cinnamon, Himalayan salt, aloe vera, liquid probiotics, coconut kefir, or lavender.
Once you choose the combination you would like to use, simply add it to the water. Slightly muddle the fruit if desired and let it rest for the flavors to infuse. Keep in the fridge for best results.
What is the best detox water?
There is no best water out there to drink! The best water to drink is the one that you will actually drink. So if you love the taste of classic spa water, then add cucumbers, lemons, and limes. If you love berries, add strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries. The best detox water is simply the one that you will drink the most.
Can this be made with different fruit?
This recipe can be made with any combination you like of fruits, vegetables, fresh herbs, and spices. Get creative with different combinations to keep it interesting and encourage water drinking.
Can detox water be made with sparkling or seltzer water?
Detox water can be made with seltzer or sparkling water. Just make sure to check the ingredient list since some sparkling water has sodium or natural flavors added.
Can sweeteners be added?
If you are looking for sweeter water, you can add some honey, maple syrup, Stevia, or monkfruit to the water. Just know that this will affect the nutritional stats of the recipe and can make it less healthy.
Can coconut water be used in place of plain water?
If you prefer coconut water, it can be used in place of plain water. Coconut water is known for being very hydrating. With that said, coconut water does contain calories, and some brands may contain sweeteners or added ingredients as well.
Detox Water Recipe Ideas
- Strawberry and basil
- Blueberry and lemon
- Lime and mint
- Lemon and cayenne
- Grapefruit and mint
- Cucumber, lemon, and lime
- Lemonginger
- Lemon and mint
- Orange and ginger
- Orange and blackberries
- Apple and cinnamon
- Cucumber, lemon, and mint
- Pineapple and ginger
- Pineapple and rosemary
- Mint, basil, and citrus
- Mixed berry and thyme
Frequently Asked Questions About Detox Water
Here are some of the questions we have received from readers about detox and infused waters.
Can this be made in advance?
Detox water will last in the fridge for 3-5 days, depending on the fruits and vegetables used. The fruit will begin to break down after that, especially for softer fruits like berries. If only using citrus fruits, you may find that it can last up to one week if kept in the fridge.
Do I need to use alkaline water?
Any type of water can be used in this recipe. Many recipes that claim that detox water helps to create a balanced pH in the body or claim detoxing benefits recommend alkaline water, but it isn't necessary. Remember, the goal is to drink more water.

Citrus Detox Water
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Ingredients
- 1 lemon, sliced
- 1 orange, sliced
- 1 lime, sliced
- 4 rosemary sprigs (or more)
- 48 ounces water
Instructions
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* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
The Nutritional Values provided are estimates only and may vary based on the preparation method.
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