3 Traditional Cooling Herbs to Naturally Beat the Summer Heat

These everyday herbs naturally—and deliciously—cool the body on hot days.
3 Traditional Cooling Herbs to Naturally Beat the Summer Heat
Hibiscus greatly benefits the body with its abundance in antioxidants and other nutritional values. zcebeci/Shutterstock
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Summer is at its peak. The days are long, and temperatures are hotter than ever. So, whether you spend these long, warm days soaking up the sun, hanging out at your favorite swimming hole, or enjoying outdoor events, chances are you could use some help cooling off.

While you might be tempted to crank up the air conditioning, consider stepping into the kitchen first. If you’ve ever craved a cool slice of watermelon or an icy glass of lemonade on a hot summer day, you know how satisfying they can be. Many traditional seasonal foods can help fight the heat by cooling the body and providing much-needed refreshment at the same time. They also often boost hydration, reduce inflammation, and provide powerful micronutrients that support overall well-being.

Jennifer McGruther
Jennifer McGruther
Author
Jennifer McGruther is a nutritional therapy practitioner, herbalist, and the author of three cookbooks, including “Vibrant Botanicals.” She’s also the creator of NourishedKitchen.com, a website that celebrates traditional foodways, herbal remedies, and fermentation. She teaches workshops on natural foods and herbalism, and currently lives in the Pacific Northwest.