7 Cooling Herbs for Summer

Nature’s Refreshing Allies to Beat the Heat

As summer blazes in with its golden rays and rising temperatures, our bodies and spirits can start to feel a bit overwhelmed. Fortunately, the earth provides exactly what we need plants that cool, soothe and restore us during the sun-soaked months.

Whether you're crafting teas, body oils or refreshing herbal spritzes, these seven herbs are your go-to green allies for cooling off and finding your balance. Let’s explore their properties, uses, and a bit of magickal insight too.

Bee Balm (Monarda fistulosa or M. didyma)

Cooling, uplifting and aromatic.

Bee Balm, also known as Wild Bergamot, is a member of the mint family with a floral, citrusy aroma. Traditionally used by Indigenous communities for fevers and digestive support, it shines in summer teas and infused honeys. Its nervine properties help calm the mind while gently cooling the body.

Magickally, it's connected to clarity, courage and communication perfect for heart-to-heart conversations under warm moonlit skies.

Calendula (Calendula officinalis)

Skin-soothing, lymphatic and sunny yet cooling.

Don’t let its bright petals fool you, Calendula is a gentle coolant for inflamed or irritated skin and a powerful ally for the lymphatic system. Use it in infused oils, salves and cooling compresses.

Magickally, it’s associated with protection and positivity. Place fresh petals in your bath to wash away negativity and restore joy.

Hibiscus (Hibiscus sabdariffa)

Tart, vibrant and a hydrating powerhouse.

Hibiscus is a star of summer teas. Its deep ruby red calyces are rich in vitamin C and antioxidants, supporting hydration and heart health. Its tangy taste refreshes like no other, making it a favorite in iced blends.

Magickally, hibiscus stirs passion and vitality great for energizing spell work or setting intentions around love and creative fire.

Plantain (Plantago spp.)

Humble healer for skin and digestion.

Often overlooked as a "weed," Plantain is one of summer’s best kept secrets. Its cooling and drawing properties make it ideal for bug bites, sunburns and general skin irritation. It also soothes internal heat and inflammation when taken as tea.

Magickally, plantain is known for protection and healing. Carry the leaf in a charm bag or place on the body during ritual healing work.

Rose (Rosa spp.)

Heart-cooling, emotionally soothing and beautifully versatile.

Rose petals, buds and hips all carry cooling, calming energies. Use rosewater for a refreshing facial mist or steep petals for a gentle summer tea. Rose helps us soften, release tension and reconnect with love and grace.

Magickally, rose supports love, self-worth and emotional healing. Add it to spell jars or sprinkle petals on your altar.

Spearmint (Mentha spicata)

Cooling, invigorating and clarifying.

This minty marvel is ideal for hot days. It cools from the inside out, supports digestion and refreshes the mind. Enjoy as an iced tea or infuse into a cooling body mist.

Magickally, spearmint is used for purification and mental clarity. Use it in floor washes, incense, or spellwork to clear stagnant energy.

St. John’s Wort (Hypericum perforatum)

Solar power for mood and inflammation.

While often associated with the sun, St. John’s Wort also has cooling and anti-inflammatory properties. It’s especially beneficial for nerve-related pain and summer skin woes when used topically in oils.

Magickally, this herb is protective and light-bringing. It’s often gathered around the Summer Solstice to harness the sun’s energy for banishing and blessing rituals.

These cooling herbs aren't just helpful for the body they offer emotional, energetic and magickal support as well. Use them with intention and gratitude and they’ll carry you through the summer with ease, beauty and resilience.

Suggestion: Blend spearmint, hibiscus, and rose petals for a delicious, heart-opening summer iced tea. Add a bit of honey and sip it under the stars.

Which cooling herb is calling to you this season? Let us know in the comments! Disclaimer: This content is intended for educational and inspirational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider before beginning any new herbal regimen, especially if you are pregnant, nursing, have existing medical conditions, or are taking medications. The traditional uses mentioned here are based on folk practices and historical herbal knowledge and may not be supported by modern scientific evidence. We are not responsible for accidents, misuse, or adverse reactions.