When the summer sun turns up the heat, finding natural ways to stay cool becomes essential. While air conditioning and cold drinks are go-to solutions, incorporating certain herbs into your diet and routine can also help keep your body cool. Here’s a look at some of the best herbs for beating the heat.
- Peppermint
Peppermint is known for its cooling properties, thanks to its high menthol content. Whether consumed as a tea or applied topically as an essential oil, peppermint can provide a refreshing sensation. Drinking peppermint tea not only cools you down but also aids digestion and alleviates headaches caused by heat.
How to use: Brew a pot of peppermint tea, let it cool, and serve it over ice. For a topical application, mix a few drops of peppermint essential oil with a carrier oil and apply it to your temples and wrists for an instant cooling effect.
- Coriander
Coriander, also known as cilantro, has been used in traditional medicine for its cooling properties. It is believed to help reduce body heat and can be added to a variety of dishes for a fresh, cooling flavor. Coriander seeds can also be used to make a cooling tea.
How to use: Add fresh coriander leaves to salads, salsas, and smoothies. For a cooling tea, boil a tablespoon of coriander seeds in water, let it steep, strain, and drink.
- Fennel
Fennel is another herb with excellent cooling properties. Its seeds are often used to make a soothing, cooling tea that can help reduce body heat. Fennel is also known for its ability to improve digestion and reduce bloating, making it a great addition to your summer diet.
How to use: Chew on fennel seeds after meals to aid digestion and cool down. Alternatively, brew fennel tea by steeping the seeds in hot water, then cool it down and enjoy it over ice.
- Basil
Basil, particularly holy basil or tulsi, is revered in Ayurvedic medicine for its myriad health benefits, including its ability to cool the body. Holy basil can be consumed as a tea to help manage stress and lower body temperature.
How to use: Add fresh basil leaves to salads, pesto, or iced tea. For a refreshing drink, steep holy basil leaves in hot water, let it cool, and serve over ice.
- Chamomile
Chamomile is well-known for its calming effects, but it also has cooling properties that can help reduce body heat. Chamomile tea is particularly effective when consumed cold, and it can also aid in promoting better sleep during hot nights.
How to use: Brew chamomile tea, let it cool, and enjoy it over ice. You can also soak a cloth in cool chamomile tea and place it on your forehead or neck for a soothing compress.
- Lemongrass
Lemongrass has a refreshing citrus flavor and is often used in teas and culinary dishes. It has cooling and calming effects that can help you stay cool and relaxed in the heat.
How to use: Brew lemongrass tea by boiling fresh or dried lemongrass in water. Let it cool and serve over ice. You can also add lemongrass to soups, salads, and marinades for a refreshing twist.
Conclusion
Incorporating these cooling herbs into your diet and daily routine can provide a natural way to combat the heat and stay refreshed. Whether you enjoy them in teas, meals, or topical aplications, these herbs offer a simple and effective way to keep your cool all summer long.
References
- Healthline. (2020). Peppermint Tea: Benefits, Uses, and Side Effects. Retrieved from [Healthline](https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/peppermint-tea-benefits).
- Medical News Today. (2019). Cilantro: Health Benefits, Nutrition, and Uses. Retrieved from [Medical News Today](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/277627).
- WebMD. (2021). Fennel: Health Benefits, Nutritional Information, and How to Use. Retrieved from [WebMD](https://www.webmd.com/diet/health-benefits-fennel).
- National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health. (2022). Holy Basil. Retrieved from [NCCIH](https://www.nccih.nih.gov/health/holy-basil).
- Verywell Health. (2020). The Benefits of Chamomile. Retrieved from [Verywell Health](https://www.verywellhealth.com/the-benefits-of-chamomile-88803).
- Healthline. (2019). Lemongrass: Benefits, Uses, and More. Retrieved from [Healthline](https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/lemongrass).
These resources offer more detailed information on the benefits and uses of each herb, ensuring you have all you need to stay cool naturally.
Kathy is an herbalist/naturopathic practitioner who is constantly researching to expand her knowledge. She came to herbalism after her migraine medicine was suddenly removed from the market and she had to find something new. After discovering the magic of herbs she’s never looked back. She is accredited by the International Practitioners of Holistic Medicine (IPHM) and is an Associate Member of the American Herbalist Guild.