It’s only the beginning of summer and already the temperatures are rising. Many of us will be engaging in outdoor activities, taking long walks, working in our gardens and yards, and communing with nature. As we enjoy the vacations of summer and time spent outdoors, it is important to remember to keep well hydrated and protect ourselves from over-heating. Cooling herbs provide a great way to do both. Including cooling herbs in tea recipes can help us stay cool and hydrated and including these herbs in a nice cool bath can help hydrate and cool off our skin and bodies.
The essential oils of lemon verbena serve as a cooling balm as well as a mild sedative. It is useful to aid digestion and ward off fevers.
1 teaspoon of dried lemon verbena leaves 1 teaspoon dried sage leaves
Mix lemon verbena and sage. Infuse 1 teaspoon of mixture in 1 cup of boiling water. Steep 5 to 10 minutes, or to taste.
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Chrysanthemum is a cooling herb that reduces inflammation and fevers. It helps purify blood, and reduces headaches, abscesses and boils. Due to its cooling properties, chrysanthemum tea is a popular summer beverage in China. The following is a refreshing blend for the scorching days of summer.
2 ounces chrysanthemum flower 1 ounce chamomile flower 1 ounce slippery elm 1/2 ounce oatstraw 1 ounce astragalus 1 ounce spearmint 1/2 ounce cleavers 1/2 ounce red clover 1/2 ounce dandelion leaf
Combine herbs and store in tight fitting glass jar. Bring 2 quarts of water to a boil in a large pot. Turn off heat and add two handfuls of herb mixture. Cover and steep overnight. To sweeten, honey or pure maple syrup may be added if desired. Strain into ice tea pitcher and chill.
Photography credits — Astragalus: ©iStockphoto.com/joxxxxjo
