Summer heat can be energising, but it can also leave us feeling depleted, overheated, and out of balance—both physically and emotionally. This week, we’re turning to nature’s coolest allies: herbs and plants that help hydrate, refresh, and bring our systems back into equilibrium.
Here’s how to stay cool from the inside out using time-honoured botanicals like hibiscus, mint, cucumber, tulsi, and rosewater.
Cooling from Within: Herbs & Foods that Hydrate
When temperatures rise, it’s essential to support our bodies with hydration that goes beyond plain water. Many herbs and plants offer natural cooling properties while replenishing minerals lost through sweat.
1. Hibiscus
Bright, tangy, and deeply red, hibiscus is more than just a pretty flower—it’s rich in antioxidants and vitamin C and is known to help lower body heat.
How to use: Brew hibiscus tea with lime and honey. Chill and serve over ice for a tropical refreshment.
2. Mint
This classic cooling herb brings an instant feeling of freshness, and it also supports digestion and soothes heat-related tension.
How to use: Add fresh mint to iced teas, water, or cucumber salads. Try a cool peppermint tea foot soak after a long day.
3. Cucumber
Crisp and watery, cucumber is packed with silica and vitamin K—great for the skin and internal hydration.
How to use: Blend into smoothies, slice into water, or make a cucumber-rose toner for the skin.
4. Tulsi (Holy Basil)
This revered adaptogen helps your body stay calm in the face of stress, while also offering mild cooling support.
How to use: Enjoy as an iced tea with lemon balm and honey, or add to your daily tea blend.
5. Rosewater
Rose isn’t just for fragrance—it’s a powerful cooling agent for both the body and emotions.
How to use: Mist rosewater on your face or mix it into lemonade for a heart-opening twist.
Electrolyte Herbal Infusions
When we sweat, we lose minerals. Replenish with herbal infusions rich in natural electrolytes:
- Nettle – High in calcium and magnesium
- Oatstraw – Nourishing for nerves and skin
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Lemon balm – Uplifting and cooling for the mind
To make combine equal parts of these dried herbs. Steep overnight in cool water. Strain and enjoy chilled throughout the day.
External Cooling Rituals
Sometimes the heat is more than internal—our skin and nerves need relief too. Here are a few simple ways to stay cool on the outside:
- Herbal hydrosols or skin mists: Mix rosewater, cucumber juice, or peppermint hydrosol in a spray bottle. Store in the fridge for a refreshing spritz.
- Cooling compresses: Soak a cloth in chilled chamomile or mint tea. Apply to the forehead, neck, or belly.
- Aloe vera + lavender gel: A perfect after-sun balm that calms redness and nourishes the skin.
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Cool foot soaks: Try rose petals, mint leaves, or even a slice of lemon in cold water for a relaxing and cooling soak.
Mind-Body Cooling Tips
- Practice gentle yoga, breath work, or meditation during the hottest hours.
- Eat light, water-rich foods like watermelon, greens, citrus, and berries.
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Limit caffeine, alcohol, and spicy foods, which can increase internal heat.
Hibiscus-Mint Cooler Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 tbsp dried hibiscus
- 1 tsp dried or fresh mint
- 2–3 cups hot water
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Optional: lime juice + honey or maple syrup
Instructions
Steep herbs in hot water for 10–15 minutes. Strain and cool. Sweeten if desired, then refrigerate and serve over ice. Garnish with lime and mint.
This week is about listening to your body’s needs and aligning with nature’s rhythms. Whether through a cooling tea, a soothing mist, or a mineral-rich infusion, these herbal allies offer profound support during the hottest days.
Stay hydrated. Stay balanced. And most importantly—stay cool.