Summer brings long days filled with outdoor fun, travel, and relaxation, offering many perks. However, the summer heat can disrupt our balance, affecting both mind and body. According to Ayurveda, incorporating cooling herbs into your diet can greatly counteract these effects. These herbs will help you stay calm, cool, and collected, allowing you to enjoy everything summer has to offer.

Coriander

Coriander enhances the appetite without raising acidity levels. It alleviates internal heat and thirst while acting as a natural diuretic, promoting the healthy function of the liver and kidneys.

Serving suggestion: Sprinkle fresh coriander (cilantro) as a garnish on your dishes for a burst of flavor and health benefits.

Fennel

Fennel supports healthy digestion and prevents stagnation in the gastrointestinal tract. It alleviates gas and indigestion while boosting metabolism.

Serving suggestion: Add fennel seeds to your cooking oil before sautéing summer vegetables for enhanced flavor and digestive benefits.

Dill

Dill is anti-inflammatory and helps relieve diarrhea (which occurs when there is too much heat in the body).

Serving suggestion: Sprinkle dill as a garnish on your dishes for a burst of flavor and health benefits.

Turmeric

Turmeric aids in summer-heated skin conditions as it hydrates the body while boosting metabolism.

Serving suggestion: Add turmeric powder to your cooking oil prior to sautéing summer veggies.

Rose

Rose uplifts the spirit, calms the heart and nerves, and generates feelings of love and devotion. It is naturally cooling and soothing, nourishes the nervous system, and relieves feelings of anxiousness and stress.

Serving suggestion: Brew dried rose petals with your favorite tea.

Mint

Mint clears all forms of stagnation in the body and mind. It’s a diaphoretic, which helps alleviate heat from the body.

Serving suggestion: Chop fresh mint and garnish on a summer salad.

Cardamom

Cardamom, the queen of spices, supports healthy digestion by countering an unsettled stomach and relieving indigestion. It promotes nutrient absorption and supports healthy circulation.

Serving suggestion: Add cardamom powder to your oatmeal or mix it into your coffee or tea.

I love all of these spices, but cardamom is my all-time favorite. What is your favorite spice?