Summer Coolaids

Cooling and moistening. These are the qualities we should be looking for in our summer diet and lifestyle or when the weather becomes hot and dry.
Lemonade is a classic when it comes to summer hydration. But why not try something different? Iced teas are a great way to get your fluids in.

Here are three simple brews that will bring benefits in addition to tasting good. Make a strong infusion, strain, and cool down with ice cubes. Take as is or sweeten to taste. Drink by the cup, or make a whole pitcher.

Hibiscus and mint mix is the perfect tea on a hot afternoon or after exercise. Hibiscus is a natural refrigerant that helps cool the blood. Mint is a diaphoretic, meaning it will help you sweat to stay cool. Mint is also a nervine, which will help relieve mental and emotional tensions. Sweeten with honey.

Scullcap and lavender tea is a great option if you feel tense. Skullcap is useful when dealing with chronic stress, feeling oversensitive, or when fiery emotions like anger and irritability manifest themselves. Lavender is well known for easing tension, and anxiety and lifting the mood. The floral taste might be a little intense for some, so be careful not to add too much to the infusion.

Rose and tulsi tea is well balanced and tasty. Rose is cooling. The petals are uplifting and rose hips are rich in vitamin C and strengthen the capillaries, explaining why it is good for the skin. It is a nice addition to almost any tea. If taken with tulsi, the mix will be well balanced because tulsi is warming. This tea tastes quite good on a cool and rainy day.

Make sure you look in the bulk section of your grocery store, as these herbs are not very hard to find. Enjoy your teas and enjoy the summer!