Umstead Spa's recipe for Strawberry Elderflower Elixir in honor of National Strawberry Month
By Carla Snuggs

May is National Strawberry Month, and The Umstead Hotel and Spa (Cary, N.C.) is treating spa guests to an invigorating Strawberry Elderflower Elixir. Sous chef Colin Archangelis shares his recipe for a healthful and seasonal elixir, that combines the immunity-boosting Vitamin C of strawberries with the natural detoxifying elements of Elderflower, and flavonoids of the lemon that are packed with antioxidants. Now, you can make this delicious strawberry elderflower elixir at home - Perfect for a beautiful spring day!

Strawberry Elderflower Elixir Recipe (Yields: 1 gallon)

4 qt. water
3 Tbsp. dandelion root
2 tbsp. dried lemon peel
1 c. elderflower
2 lemon’s peel and juice
½ c. honey
1 c. strawberries , tops removed
3 tbsp. white balsamic vinegar
½ c. strawberry puree

Method: Combine all aromatics, honey, and strawberries in a gallon container. Let water come up to a simmer and pour over the aromatics. Allow to steep at room temperature for two hours then refrigerate overnight. The next day, strain the tea through a fine sieve. Season with white balsamic and strawberry puree.

Strawberries are more than just delicious and mouthwatering. Strawberries are great for your skin and hair. Click here to read about 25 different beauty benefits you may get from eating strawberries and using them in your DIY beauty products from Stylecraze.com. They include:

1. Excellent Skin Cleanser

2. Improves Complexion

3. Skin Toner

4. Protection from Ultraviolet Radiation

5. Anti-aging Properties

6. Treatment of Acne

7. Diminishes Under-eye Puffiness

8. Treatment of Pigmentation

9. Skin Repair

10. Prevents Alopecia and Hair Thinning

11. Promotes Silky and Shiny Hair

12. Moisturizes your Hair