Cooling Herbs for Summer: Help You Keep Cool & Calm

Why Cooling Herbs Matter in Summer

When the sun lingers and my skin begs for relief, I don’t reach for ice—I reach for herbs. There’s something magical about knowing that plants can help you keep cool, even on the hottest days. But here’s the catch: not every cooling herb is created equal. In herbal traditions like Ayurveda, the power to soothe summer heat goes far beyond just sticking a cold cucumber on your face (though I do love that trick, especially after a day in the garden).

Cooling herbs for summer are nature’s way of bringing calm back to the mind and body when excess heat strikes. Some offer a gentle, refreshing touch—think minty lemon balm on a hot day—while others dive deeper, calming irritation, inflammation, and even emotional fire. Over the years, I’ve learned that the right cooling herb can make the difference between feeling wilted and feeling genuinely revived.

Ready to discover which herbs can help you keep cool (and which to grab first when the temperature rises)? Let’s explore the world of soothing, cooling plants—one degree at a time.

Ever wondered why some herbs feel cooling while others seem to heat things up? You’ll find a full explanation (with real-life examples!) in my guide to herbal energetics.

What Does “Cooling” Mean in Herbalism?

Let’s clear something up: when herbalists talk about a cooling herb, they don’t just mean “cold to the touch.” In herbal energetics, especially in traditions like Ayurveda, cooling goes deeper. It’s about a plant’s effect on the body—how it helps to reduce excess heat, calm inflammation, and soothe irritated or sensitive skin. So, while ice might feel good for a moment, cooling herbs work their magic by supporting the body and mind from the inside out.

In the sweltering heat of summer, our bodies often show signs of overheating—think flushed cheeks, prickly rashes, and that “I-just-can’t-cool-down” feeling. That’s where cooling herbs step in. Whether applied topically or taken internally as a tea or tincture, the right herb can help you keep your body temperature balanced and your skin happy.

The best part? There’s a beautiful overlap between science and tradition. While herbal energetics use terms like “cooling quality” or “astringent tastes,” modern research highlights anti-inflammatory, soothing, and even antiviral effects. Lavender, peppermint, and coriander (all beloved in Ayurveda) are just a few herbs considered cooling for their ability to calm both the digestive system and inflamed summer skin.

So, next time someone mentions cooling herbs for summer, know that it’s not just about a cold sensation—it’s about supporting your whole self, mind and body, when the heat of summer ramps up.

The Four Degrees of Cooling: From Gentle to Intense

The idea of cooling herbs having “degrees” actually dates back to ancient Greek medicine and was later embraced by both Western herbalists and Ayurvedic practitioners. According to classic texts and herbalists like Matthew Wood, plants and foods were categorized not just by their effects, but by the degree of cooling they could bring to the body—ranging from a light, refreshing effect to the deepest, most profound chill. This system still pops up in both traditional herbalism and modern holistic wellness, helping us match the right herb to each unique summer challenge. (Wood, 2008; Wood, 2012)

Not all cooling herbs are created equal. In Ayurveda and other herbal traditions, plants are sorted by their “cooling effect” on the body—some are like a gentle breeze, while others feel like a dip in an icy lake. Here’s how it breaks down:

1. Refreshing (1st Degree Cooling)

This is your gentle entry point. Think cucumber slices on your eyes or a handful of crisp lettuce in your summer salad. These herbs are perfect for surface heat and those hot days when you just need a light, refreshing lift.
Examples: cucumber, lettuce, lemon, peach.
Ever tried sipping iced tea made with fresh lemon balm? It’s not just tasty; it’s a soothing way to keep cool this summer, especially if you feel just a touch overheated.

2. Anti-inflammatory / Refrigerant (2nd Degree Cooling)

Here we go a bit deeper. These herbs don’t just refresh—they actively help with inflammation, redness, or that “hot and bothered” feeling in your skin or emotions. Classic Ayurveda picks like hibiscus tea, lemon balm, elderflower, and rose petals are perfect when you need to soothe irritation or calm the mind and body.
Examples: elderflower/berry, lemon balm, hibiscus, rose (petal & hip).
If summer stress is making your skin or mood flare up, these are the herbs to help you cool things down—inside and out.

3. Thickening / Astringent (3rd Degree Cooling)

Now we’re getting intense. These astringent herbs help tighten tissues and are fantastic for times when you’re sweating buckets or your skin feels “leaky” and raw. Imagine that post-workout flush or a stubborn summer rash—these herbs support the body’s natural ability to preserve moisture while delivering a stronger cooling effect.
Examples: lavender, yarrow, California poppy.
Lavender, especially, is a KM favorite: calming, aromatic, and cooling when applied topically or used in a tea.

4. Anodyne (4th Degree Cooling)

This is the deepest, most powerful cooling—traditionally used only in serious cases. Historically, plants like opium poppy were considered “anodyne,” with the ability to cool, numb, and deeply calm both pain and heat.
Example: opium (for context only—definitely not a home remedy!).
Most of us won’t ever need herbs this strong, but it’s fascinating to see just how nuanced herbal cooling can get.

So whether you’re reaching for cucumber, hibiscus, or classic lavender, there’s a cooling herb for every kind of summer heat. The secret? Pick the right degree for your needs—and don’t be afraid to mix and match for your own perfect chill.

How to Use Cooling Herbs in Your Summer Routine

Let’s be honest—sometimes, the idea of slathering aloe vera gel or sipping hibiscus tea on a hot day feels almost too easy. But that’s the magic of cooling herbs: they fit right into your daily routine, offering real relief with zero fuss.

Here are some of my favorite ways to keep cool this summer (no ice bath required):

1. Start with the gentlest touch.
On mild summer days, try a simple cucumber face mist. Just blend fresh cucumber with a little rose water and strain—spritz on your face for an instant cooling sensation. Cucumber is considered a first-degree cooling herb in both Ayurveda and Western herbal traditions, known for its ability to soothe the skin and help you stay fresh even during the hottest afternoons.

2. Go deeper with herbal teas.
Feeling overheated or noticing redness? Reach for cooling herbs like peppermint, lemon balm, or hibiscus. Drinking tea is a great way to keep cool from the inside out. Peppermint supports the digestive system, while hibiscus tea may help with inflammation and soothe digestion. Try brewing iced tea with a mix of these herbs, add a splash of lemon, and you’ve got a summer elixir that calms both mind and body.

3. Layer your cooling strategy.
Summer heat getting intense? Time to layer up! Combine a lavender compress for the skin with a cup of cardamom and fennel tea. Lavender has cooling properties and can be applied topically to soothe rashes or excess heat, while cardamom and fennel are classic ayurvedic herbs to help you keep your digestive system balanced when spicy foods or “excess pitta” strike.

4. DIY for the win.
Whip up a calming “after-sun” gel with aloe vera, a few drops of lavender essential oil, and a dash of chamomile tea. Aloe vera is famous for its ability to soothe inflammation and is used in ayurveda to treat various skin conditions, while chamomile calms irritation—together, they make a power team for hot, bothered skin.

When to use which degree?

• Mild flush or hot day? Go for gentle herbs like cucumber, lemon balm, or coriander.
• Red, irritated skin or emotional heat? Hibiscus, elderflower, and rose are your best friends.
• Sweating buckets or stubborn rash? Time to bring out the astringent heavy-hitters like lavender or yarrow.

And remember, you don’t have to pick just one. Combining different cooling herbs into your diet and self-care can help you keep cool, soothe your body and mind, and enjoy the heat of summer—without letting it get the best of you.

Not sure which ingredients truly belong in your routine? Take a peek at my Natural Ingredients 101 for a simple, eco-friendly breakdown of what’s worth keeping on your shelf.

Science Meets Tradition: Why Cooling Herbs Work

Ever wondered why a cup of peppermint tea actually feels cooling—or why aloe vera gel calms that sunburn so fast? It turns out, there’s both science and ancient wisdom behind the soothing power of these herbs.

Active Compounds with a Cooling Effect
Cooling herbs owe their magic to a mix of unique plant compounds. For example, menthol in peppermint creates that instant cooling sensation on your tongue (or skin), while mucilage in hibiscus and aloe vera helps soothe and hydrate tissue, warding off inflammation and dryness. Many herbs also contain polyphenols and flavonoids—natural antioxidants that help with inflammation and support skin repair after a day in the sun.

Ayurveda’s Take: Matching Herb to Dosha
According to ayurveda, every person has a unique balance of three doshas—vata, pitta, and kapha. Summer heat tends to aggravate pitta (think: fire and water), which is why so many cooling herbs are used to help reduce excess heat in the body. Coriander, cardamom, and fennel are classic ayurvedic herbs to calm excess pitta and soothe digestive issues when the GI tract gets irritated by hot, spicy foods.

Bridging Science and Herbal Traditions
Modern research backs up what traditional herbalists have known for centuries. Peppermint has antiviral and anti-inflammatory properties, while lavender and chamomile have been shown to help with pain relief and calming the nervous system. Hibiscus tea may even help to reduce body temperature and soothe the digestive system after heavy, oily meals.

The secret? It’s not just about one herb to cool you down—it’s about matching the right cooling quality to your unique “pattern” of heat. Whether you’re dealing with a rash, digestive upset, or simple summer fatigue, these herbs can help you cool off, calm your body and mind, and enjoy the season to its fullest.

Safety, Tips & Best Practices

As much as I love loading my kitchen and bathroom with every cooling herb I can find, it’s smart to remember: not every plant is perfect for every person (or skin type). Here’s how to get all the benefits—safely.

Patch Test Before You Dive In
If you’re trying a new herb topically (especially strong astringent herbs like lavender or yarrow), do a quick patch test. Some cooling herbs have powerful effects on sensitive skin and could cause irritation or rash if you’re prone to reactions. Aloe vera and chamomile are gentle favorites, but even they should be tested if you’re prone to allergies or have existing skin conditions.

Avoid Over-Drying with Smart Combinations
Astringent herbs like rose, lavender, or raspberry leaf are amazing for reducing sweat and calming heat, but go easy—especially if your skin tends to be dry. Try layering them with moistening herbs like aloe vera or hibiscus to keep that perfect balance between cooling and hydration. This approach is well-loved in both Western herbalism and traditional ayurvedic routines.

Storage Matters
Fresh leaves, homemade tinctures, and cooling hydrosols (like rose water) are best kept in the fridge, especially in the heat of summer. Not only does this boost their cooling effect, but it also helps them last longer. If you’re making iced tea or herbal infusions, store them in a glass jar and finish within a couple of days for peak freshness.

Who Should Be Extra Cautious?
People dealing with menopause, sensitive GI tracts, or certain respiratory conditions should always check with a qualified practitioner before going all-in on strong cooling herbs. Some herbs can help with inflammation and excess heat, but others might interfere with medication or existing health issues.

And always remember—herbs can help, but gentle, regular use is better than going overboard! The ability to soothe and calm body and mind is what makes these plants so beloved in traditional medicine and modern DIY routines alike.

Quick Reference Table: Cooling Herbs by Degree (Fresh Picks!)

Bonus Picks & Tips:

• Cardamom: Supports the digestive system and soothes excess pitta. Try adding cardamom powder to iced tea or summer smoothies.
• Mint Family (peppermint, spearmint): Powerful for instant cooling—rub fresh leaves between your fingers, then inhale deeply for a quick reset.
• Chamomile: Not just for sleep! Brew strong chamomile tea, chill, and use as a compress for sun-kissed or irritated skin.
• Aloe Vera: Best applied topically for rash, after-sun care, or just a little “cool-down” after being outdoors.
• Lemon Balm: Uplifts mood and calms emotional heat. Make a fresh lemon balm tincture for the days when summer stress hits hard.

KM Tip:
Keep a “cooling kit” in your fridge—think rose water, peppermint tea, and a little aloe vera gel. It makes hot days way more bearable!

New to making your own beauty blends? My complete beginner’s guide to DIY natural skincare is the perfect place to start.

If you want to take your self-care one step further, my collection of sustainable beauty practices will help you create rituals that are gentle on both your skin and the planet.

Conclusion & Community

If there’s one thing I’ve learned about cooling herbs, it’s this: they’re not just a summer trend—they’re a time-tested way to soothe your mind and body, beat the summer heat, and truly keep cool when everything else says “just melt.” Whether you reach for coriander tea after a spicy meal, make a rose water spritz for your skin, or keep a little aloe vera in the fridge, these plants help you connect with both tradition and nature’s wisdom.

Now, I’d love to hear from you!
Which cooling herb helps you most in summer? Do you have a favorite way to use peppermint, chamomile, or cardamom when it’s hot outside? Maybe you’ve discovered a DIY recipe that’s saved you during a heatwave, or an ayurvedic trick that calms you down fast.

Drop your favorite ritual in the comments, share this post with a fellow summer survivor, and sign up for the newsletter if you want more herbal wisdom, easy recipes, and a dose of eco-friendly self-care inspiration—straight to your inbox.

Stay cool, stay kind to your skin, and remember: the right herb can turn even the hottest day into a gentle, soothing ritual. 🌱

Kristina