Nature has such a sweet way of caring for her inhabitants. During the hottest months of the year, she is abundant with plants holding secrets that favor the season of the fire element, summer. This is part of the key to eating seasonally – what is growing is often just the support we need during that particular season.
Cooling Fruits and Veggies
Since Summer is hot and dry, we want to consume things that are cool and moistening. Cucumbers are both. They thrive this time of year and are packed with nutrients that help us beat the heat and stay hydrated. Cucumbers contain a balance of minerals that help water absorb into the cells, making sure you hold onto the hydration you consume. They also contain a combo of vitamins A, C, and caffeic acid, which are soothing to inflamed or sunburnt skin. Berries, peaches, and melons also grow to be harvested in the heat of summer, and help keep the body protected from dehydration and overexposure to the sun, but more on this next month!
Cooling Herbs and Oils
Several herbs that grow in the heat are cooling herbs to the body, also known as refrigerant herbs. Hibiscus can help to clear excess heat in the body and is high in Vitamin C, which is abundant in our skin cells and plays a key role in their hydration. More vitamin C = more hydrated skin. Lemongrass oil is one of the best oils for cooling down the body’s temperature, and peppermint has this effect as well. Add a few sprigs of peppermint to your drink, or place a drop or two of peppermint oil onto a hanky and apply it to the back of your neck. Lavender flowers and oil will offer relief in this way as well, as it is included in the mint family. *Additional hot tip* Peach leaves are also a refrigerant and, when brewed in a tea-like fashion, offer a flavor similar to amaretto.
Here’s a recipe I love to keep on hand in my fridge. I make a fresh batch of this before our Summertime adventures outdoors, then keep it in my fridge for 2-3 weeks.
AFTER SUN SPRAY
Add to jar :
1/4 cup chopped cucumber
2-3 sprigs peppermint
1-2 stalks of Aloe (or a squirt from bottled gel)
If you’d like to add florals, a pinch of calendula, rose petals, and/or lavender flowers make a beautiful addition.
Place ingredients into an 8-ounce jar and fill with clean water and/or witch hazel. Shake well, put prayers and intentions into this elixir, and let refrigerate anywhere from 12-24 hours.
Once infused, strain and put the liquid into a spray bottle. This lasts for 2-3 weeks when kept in the fridge. If I’ve used fresh aloe and need it to last longer, I’ll add a bit of vodka or Everclear to the mix as a preservative.
How to Use After Sun Spray
Use this spray as needed while playing outdoors or post-sun exposure. If making your own isn’t really your jam, EZ Herbs Queen of Hungary Spray is a lovely option. A centuries-old remedy infused with herbs that heal skin cells (Calendula and Chamomile) and cool off heat (Roses, Lavender, and Sage). If you like to keep it simple, we also offer plain Rose Water. Both of these sprays are in a base of witch hazel, an herb that contains tannins that reduce redness and inflammation, making them perfect for a little-too sunkissed skin. Place either in the fridge for a spritz of guaranteed “Aaaaaaaaah”.
Other Tips to Beat the Heat
Of course, drinking plenty of water is also important to prevent and treat sunburn. If you are dehydrated, your skin will burn more easily. Toss a few cuke slices and some sprigs of peppermint into your water to level up your hydration game. Another option is to add EZ Herbs Be Cool Hibiscus Blend into your regular consumption routine. If you live in the South, having hibiscus in your pantry is a MUST due to the long term heat. This loose leaf herbal beverage is made to keep you even cooler than you already are and contains previously mentioned herbs like hibiscus, lemongrass, and peppermint. The additions of lavender, lemon balm, and passionflower kick up the flavor profile and nervous system support, which can get overheated in the summertime, just like our bodies. And best of all, it makes a delicious sun tea.
I’m hoping these suggestions offer a remedy to some of the summer challenges that might pop up. If there are any other herbal remedies to summer quandaries you might have questions about, I am happy to help. Shoot an email over to ezherbsatx@gmail.com and we’ll chat. Until next time, wishing you a cool, hydrated and protected summer.
Be Cool Hibiscus Blend