Staying Cool & Hydrated This Summer (With Plants!)
June is busting out all over, and that means temperatures are rising! During times of intense heat, it is more important that ever to stay hydrated, but did you know that there are herbs that can help you do just that this summer? Luckily for you, I made a list!
But before we dive into it, remember: as always, this list is for informational purposes, and you should consult with your physician if you have any health concerns that might prohibit the consumption of any of these plants.
Now, on to the good stuff!
Marshmallow
The marshmallow plant, especially the root, contains mucilage (a slippery, gel-like substance found in certain plants), which acts as a cooling and hydrating agent to the tissues. It soothes sore throats, any inflammation in the mucus membranes, and helps retain moisture deep into the tissues due to the protective layer. Mucilage does not extract well in heat, so it is best steeped overnight in a cold infusion.
Lemon
This citrus fruit is known as a ‘refrigerant,’ meaning that it keeps the body cool — a much needed benefit during the hottest time of the year! Adding lemon to water is an easy way to bring flavor, making it easier for some people to increase their water intake without adding extra sugars from other flavoring. It is also a great source of vitamin C, which is an antioxidant, and may even help with digestion.
Hibiscus
A vividly red flower that is naturally sour, and full of vitamin C and antioxidants! Similar to marshmallow, it has a high mucilage content, and when paired with its mineral richness, this makes hibiscus a star for cellular hydration and electrolyte support. It has also been shown to lower blood pressure and triglyceride levels, but check with your physician if you are pregnant or have other health concerns, as this herb may not be right for you.
Oat Straw
Looking for a relaxing, nutrient-rich, but mild tasting herb to mix into a lemon aid or mocktail? Then oat straw is perfect for you. It nourishes the nervous system, strengthens the bones, and replenishes the adrenal glands - all while being slightly moistening to the tissues. While it is less mucilaginous than marshmallow, it enhances the body's capacity to hold hydration over time by providing deep nourishment on a cellular level.
Linden
The flowers are emotionally calming and moistening, while the rest of the plant can be somewhat drying. They are soothing, relaxing tension and reducing blood pressure. They make a very pleasant tasting herbal tea, and may even be helpful for headaches.
Red Clover
A beautiful lymphatic herb, red clover helps to clear toxins from the blood. Even so, it also simultaneously leaves behind valuable nutrients, including magnesium and potassium. Because it is working toward excretion, it can reduce swelling caused by stagnation of fluids, bring about hormonal balance, and promote clear, beautiful skin. In addition to being pleasant tasting, it is also a phytoestrogen - meaning that it can help with hot flashes as well as potentially inhibiting estrogen-based cancers.
Peppermint
A cooling, tasty herb that is perfect to accent a summery mocktail! Peppermint is calming to both the nervous and digestive systems. Its soothing and aromatic properties are especially helpful for headaches associated with gastrointestinal upset, trapped gas, and settling the stomach after a big barbecue. However, it can exacerbate symptoms of heartburn associated with GERD in some people.
Lemon Balm
Aromatic with a lemony scent, lemon balm is cooling and relaxing. It eases nervous tension and sadness, promotes better sleep, and improves concentration. It is especially lovely for people who have gut imbalances associated with their nervous tension, and, similarly to peppermint, pairs nicely in a summer mocktail.
Recap & Free Recipe
There are numerous ways to incorporate cooling plants into your daily routine, bringing moisture and balance to your summer fun. If you are going out in the heat, consider adding these herbs to your water, lemonade mixes, mocktails, or even popsicles!
Raspberry, Marshmallow, & Hibiscus Lemonade
Ingredients:
3 tbsp. Raspberry Leaf
3 tbsp. Marshmallow Root
2 tsp. Hibiscus Flowers
8 c of Water
1 c of Simple Syrup
1 c of Fresh Lemon Juice
Ice, Lemon Slices, and Raspberries for serving
Directions:
Place the herbs into two, large jars that can hold at least 4 cups of water each (or one big container, if you can find one that has a lid). Pour cold water over the plants, and let it steep overnight in the fridge.
The next day, place a strainer over the serving container, and strain the bulk of the herbs out of the tea, catching the liquid in the serving container.
Add the simple syrup and the lemon juice, and mix well until fully combined.
Add the ice, lemon slices, and raspberries. Enjoy and stay hydrated!
Leftover lemonade can be stored in the fridge for up to 2 days.
