Staying Cool in Late Summer: Aromatherapy & Herbal Tips

As the summer stretches into its later days, the heat can often become more intense and persistent. While many of us enjoy the sunshine and longer days, staying cool and comfortable becomes a priority. As an aromatherapist and herbalist, I’ve found that nature offers myriad solutions to help us beat the heat. Here are some of my favourite tips and tricks to stay cool and refreshed during the late summer months.

Photo by Hans Isaacson on Unsplash

1. Refreshing Herbal Teas

Herbal teas are not just for winter! Many herbs have cooling properties that can help regulate your body temperature and keep you hydrated. Some of my top picks include:

Rose & Mallow Tea: Known for its soothing properties, rose and mallow tea can help lower your body temperature and soothe overheated membranes. Cold brew overnight and serve with fresh mint.
Hibiscus Tea: Rich in antioxidants, hibiscus tea is not only cooling but also offers a tart, refreshing flavour. It’s excellent as an iced tea, perhaps with a hint of honey - or cardamom, my favourite.
Chamomile Tea: While chamomile is typically associated with relaxation, it also has cooling properties. It’s perfect for a calming, cool drink in the evening.

2. Cooling Aromatherapy

Aromatherapy can provide an instant sense of coolness and refreshment. Hydrosols are my go to for cooling down and can be used in a variety of ways:

Rose hydrosol: Fill a spray bottle and keep in the fridge a quick cooling mist. You can also apply diluted rose oil to your temples and the back of your neck for a soothing effect.
Eucalyptus: Known for its invigorating properties, eucalyptus can be added to a cold compress or a foot bath to help cool down your body.
Lavender: Not only does lavender have a calming effect, but it can also help cool the body. Add some lavender hydrosol and aloe vera gel to a spray bottle and keep it in the fridge for a cooling spray that will also soothe sun-irritated skin.3. Herbal Infused Cooling Sprays

Create your own cooling sprays with herbs and essential oils. Here’s a simple recipe:

Ingredients:

1 cup distilled water
1 tablespoon witch hazel
10 drops rose essential oil
5 drops lavender essential oil
A handful of fresh mint leaves

Instructions:

Boil the water and pour it over the mint leaves. Let it steep until cool.
Strain the mint leaves and pour the infused water into a spray bottle.
Add the witch hazel and essential oils.
Shake well before each use. Spray on your skin for an instant cool down.

4. Herbal Baths

A cool bath infused with herbs can be incredibly refreshing on a hot day. Some of my favourites include:

Rose & chamomile: Both herbs have cooling properties. Add a handful of fresh rose petals and chamomile flowers to your bath for a revitalizing soak. Or brew a tea for 20 minutes, strain and add to your bath.
Aloe Vera: Known for its cooling and soothing properties, aloe vera can be added to your bath water. You can also apply fresh aloe vera gel directly to your skin after a bath for added hydration and coolness.

5. Stay Hydrated with Herbal Infused Water

Staying hydrated is crucial in the heat. Enhance your water with herbs to make it more appealing and beneficial:

Cucumber & mint: Add slices of cucumber and fresh rose petals to a pitcher of water. Let it sit in the fridge for a few hours before drinking. The cucumber adds a cooling effect, while the rose provides a refreshing taste.
Citrus and Basil Water: Combine slices of lemon, lime, or berries, and fresh basil leaves for a tasty and cooling drink.

6. Eat Cooling Foods

Incorporate cooling foods into your diet to help regulate your body temperature:

Watermelon: This hydrating fruit is perfect for hot days.
Cucumber: With high water content, cucumbers are excellent for staying cool.
Mint: Add fresh mint to salads, drinks, and dishes for a cooling effect.

Conclusion

Staying cool in late summer doesn’t have to be a challenge. By incorporating these herbal and aromatherapy tips into your routine, you can enjoy the season while staying refreshed and comfortable. Remember to stay hydrated, listen to your body, and embrace the natural cooling properties of herbs and essential oils.

Stay cool and enjoy the rest of your summer!

Please note that essential oils should never be ingested and some can have contraindications with medications or certain health conditions.