When the sun is strong and the humidity is high, there’s nothing as refreshing as a delicious herbal beverage to cool you down. Check out our recommended recipes below.

Schisandra Berry Tea

Schisandra berries are used widely in Traditional Chinese Medicine as an adaptogenic herb to support energy, calm the spirit, and nourish the blood. This is a great tea to drink for the summer heat as it replenishes fluids and has a slightly astringent taste that can balance excess sweating. Look for organic, whole, schisandra berries and brew in clean filtered or spring water. Cool to room temperature and enjoy with raw honey!

Hibiscus Lemonade 

This Hibiscus Lemonade is a thirst-quenching beverage that is sure to be a hit at any gathering. The tartness of the lemon juice combined with the floral hints of the hibiscus helps create a perfect balance, making it an ideal drink for summertime parties.

Ingredients: 

• 6 cups filtered water divided

• 3 teaspoons dried hibiscus flower 3 dried hibiscus flowers or 3 hibiscus tea bags

• 3/4 cup fresh lemon juice

• Sweetener of choice; honey, maple syrup

Instructions:

• Boil three cups of water in a medium saucepan.

• Remove boiling water from the stovetop and add the dried hibiscus or hibiscus tea bags. Let steep for 5-10 minutes.

• Strain the tea over a large bowl, cool and then place in the refrigerator to cool.

• In a large pitcher add the remaining 3 cups of water and amount of sweetener you like. Mix together.

• Once the hibiscus tea has cooled add it to the pitcher with the water.

• Add the fresh lemon juice and stir ingredients.

• Serve with a slice of lemon.

Watermelon Cucumber Smoothie

Watermelon and cucumber are great ingredients to cool the body and reduce heat. They are both very hydrating and full of electrolytes to replenish what may be lost through sweat during the summer time.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups chopped seedless watermelon

• 1 cup  chopped cucumber, peeled and seeds removed

• 3 large leaves fresh mint

Directions: 

• At least an hour prior to making, place the chopped watermelon and cucumber in a sealed container and transfer to the freezer. Alternatively, you can skip this step and add ice cubes to the blender.

• In a blender, combine the watermelon, cucumber and mint. Add a splash of filtered water then blend. Add just a splash of water at a time as needed to help the ingredients blend together. Blend until smooth. Serve cold and enjoy!