As the summer sun settles in and the days get longer, our bodies naturally crave more cooling and hydrating nourishment.

One of my favorite ways to honor this seasonal shift is with cooling herbs. These herbs help reduce internal heat and offer refreshing support for the nervous system, digestion, and skin. In herbalism, cooling herbs are plants that gently bring down body temperature and soothe inflammation. 

Herbs like Hibiscus, Peppermint, Spearmint, Lemon Balm, Linden, and Rose are not only delicious but also revered by both herbal tradition and scientific study. Hibiscus contains naturally occurring bioflavonoids and antioxidants that support circulation and gently soothe overheated skin and internal body temperatures. Mint is cooling thanks to the menthol in the leaves, which creates a refreshing cooling sensation on the skin and in the mouth while also helping to ease tension and inflammation throughout the body. Lemon balm and linden bring a calming influence that allows for the alleviation of both emotional and physical stress. Both are particularly nice for summer evenings after a long day in the sun to support a frayed nervous system.

Here are a few of my favorite cooling herbs: 

Hibiscus (Hibiscus sabdariffa) – Bright, tart, and antioxidant-rich, hibiscus supports heart health, gently lowers body temperature, and brings a bold and ruby hue to teas. 

Peppermint (Mentha × piperita – This classic herb has a crisp, mentholated flavor that instantly cools the body. It can help relieve heat headaches, soothe digestive discomfort, and invigorate the senses.

Spearmint (Mentha spicata) – Milder than peppermint, spearmint offers a soft, sweet flavor that refreshes the body. It is gentle on the gut and particularly nice for children or those who find peppermint too strong. 

Lemon Balm (Melissa officinalis) – Cooling, calming, and mood-brightening, lemon balm is a favorite for supporting the nervous system. It is ideal for summertime stress, heat-induced irritability, or those who run warm and anxious. 

Linden (Tilia spp.) – The flowers of the Linden tree are soothing and slightly sweet. Linden is excellent for calming the nervous system and supporting the heart, especially during hot, restless nights. 

Rose (Rosa spp.) – Beyond its beauty, rose has a gentle, astringent, and cooling nature. It supports emotional balance, eases tension, and brings soft, loving energy to any blend. 

Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia) – Though often associated with calming the mind, lavender is also considered a subtle cooling herb. It helps ease heat-related tension, promotes relaxation, and supports the skin, mainly when used in hydrosols or infusions.

One of the simplest and most nourishing seasonal rituals I return to time and time again is making a big batch of cold herbal tea in the morning. I typically add a handful of herbs to a mason jar, pour hot (but not boiling) water over them, and let them steep for an hour or so before straining and storing them in the fridge. Sometimes, I steep overnight to let the medicine be richer and brighter. You can sweeten with raw honey or enjoy the full brightness of the plants on their own. 

For days when you're out in the garden, running errands, or lounging in the sun, pouring this herbal infusion into a thermos with a few tea ice cubes is a game-changer. You can also freeze leftover tea into trays, and on hot afternoons, just pop a cube or two into your water bottle or a herbal mocktail. Not only does it stay cold longer, but it adds a burst of flavor and wellness-supporting nourishment. Try stirring in a few rose petals or mint leaves into the ice cube tray before freezing for a bit of heart-centered beauty and delight.

Here is a simple recipe you can try: 

Herbal Ice Cubes

1. Brew a strong infusion of your favorite cooling herbs, such as hibiscus, peppermint, lemon balm, or spearmint. Use about 1–2 tablespoons of dried herbs per cup of water. 

2. Let the tea steep for at least 30 minutes, then strain. 

3. Once cooled, pour the tea into ice cube trays. 

4. For a beautiful touch, add fresh herbs (such as mint leaves or lavender buds) or edible flowers (like rose petals) to each cube slot before freezing. 

5. Freeze overnight. Use them in your water bottle, mocktails, or iced tea throughout the day.

Not only do the herbal ice cubes keep your drinks cold, but they also infuse them with subtle flavor and extra herbal nourishment. It's a simple yet lovely way to turn hydration into a ritual.

If you're looking for a ready-made herbal blend to support your summer cooling rituals, I recommend the Chill Tea Blend from our apothecary. It combines hibiscus, spearmint, red raspberry leaf, lemon peel, sweet fennel, a hint of cinnamon, and holy basil for a vibrant, tangy, and intensely refreshing tea. Whether served over ice or sipped slowly throughout the day, it is an easy way to stay cool and centered in the summer heat. 

As for external cooling support, especially for hot, inflamed, or sun-kissed skin, the Rosewater Hibiscus Toner is our summer staple. This toner has rose, hibiscus, and aloe. It hydrates and soothes with every mist, supporting the skin’s barrier while offering a gentle, aromatic lift. I like to keep it in the fridge for an extra refreshing spritz midday or after time in the sun. 

Cooling herbs are gentle but powerful reminders of how present and in sync we can be with the seasons when we slow down and listen. If you're looking for a simple way to care for your body throughout the summer, start with herbs that cool, calm, and bring about a sense of ease. They soften the heat in more ways than one.