One Alcoholic Beverage With Benefits Tequila!
by Roberta B. Turner

The agave plant is native to the hot regions of Mexico and the Southwestern United States. Some species of agave are also native to tropical climates in South America. The plants are perennial and they will bloom one rosette flower before they die. Agave tequilana, agave azul or blue agave, are used in the production of tequila. Agave nectar, also called agave syrup, a sweetener derived from Agave sap, is used as an alternative to sugar in cooking, and can be added to breakfast cereals.

The name Tequila came from the city of Tequila, which is northwest of Guadalajara. Mexican laws state that tequila can only be produced in the state of Jalisco and limited municipalities in the states of Guanajuato, Michoacán, Nayarit, and Tamaulipas. The red volcanic soil in the surrounding region is particularly well suited to the growing of the blue agave, and more than 300 million of the plants are harvested there each year. Agave grows differently depending on the region, and the area of the region that the agave plant grows in does influence the taste. What some people may not realize is that Tequila has many health benefits. A type of natural sugar called Agavins comes from the Agave plant, which can be used to make Tequila. Here are some of the benefits of drinking Tequila:

Research has documented that Tequila aids in weight loss, helps lower blood sugar, helps fight cholesterol, helps you numb pain, can be used to cure colds, cleans your colon and helps you sleep.  It is also good to drink after dinner for digestion.

We are featuring some unique recipes to consider. Depending on the ingredients, the calorie count will vary. Regardless, Tequila is surprisingly good for you.

Instructions:
Shake with ice, taste for balance and pour into your favorite rocks glass or serve straight up. For a colder Margarita, strain into a rocks glass with fresh ice. A salted rim is optional.

Instructions:
In a shaker, muddle the blackberries and basil. Add the remaining ingredients and fill with ice. Shake well and strain into a stemless Martini glass filled with fresh ice. Garnish with a blackberry and basil leaf.

Instructions:
Build with ice in a Collins glass. Add a squeeze of fresh lemon & your favorite garnish. Taste for balance and serve.

Instructions:
Add all the ingredients to a shaker and fill with ice. Shake well and strain into a Martini glass. Garnish with a lime.

Instructions:
In a shaker, muddle the watermelon and Agave syrup. Add the remaining ingredients and fill with ice. Shake well and double strain into a chilled Martini glass. Garnish with a watermelon slice.

Instructions:
In a shaker, stir together the lemon juice and sugar. Add the Tequila and Grand Marnier, and fill with ice. Shake well and strain into a chilled cocktail glass. Top with a small splash of club soda.

Instructions:
Combine Tequila, lime juice, grapefruit juice, cocktail-ready Agave nectar and salt in a Collins glass. Add ice. Top with club soda, stir gently, and add garnish.

Instructions:
Add all the ingredients to a pitcher and stir until the salt dissolves. Let stand for 15 to 30 minutes and then remove and discard the Jalapeno.