by Marissa Ranahan During the summer months, herbs are extremely helpful for dealing with humidity and heavy heat. And personally, it’s my favorite season to start incorporating these herbs into my daily routine! Certain herbs are highly beneficial in the summertime, thanks to their ability to regulate body temperature, aid in digestion, and soothe seasonal rashes. If you haven’t already, start working with these herbs to create more soothing (and delicious!) summer days. ROSE Due to its gentle scent, rose is typically applied as an essential oil on the skin. Using rose water on your face is the perfect solution for dealing with dry skin and excessive sweating. Plus, rosewater also aids in reducing skin redness and inflammation from the heat. When ingested, this herb provides a number of benefits for the body. For example, it’s perfect for internal cooling and providing relief from menstrual cramps. Typically, rose is consumed through herbal tinctures, teas, or water. This month, start treating yourself to some iced rose tea to stay cool – all while boosting your mood immune system between sips! CHAMOMILE Chamomile - like its flower friend rose - works towards cooling the body internally. Traditionally, its main function is to aid in digestion and soothe stomach aches. Like most florals, it’s best ingested as a tea or supplement. Chamomile is also perfect for soothing insect bites. Thanks to its anti-inflammatory medicinal properties, chamomile reduces itching, redness, and swelling. Apply a drop of chamomile tea or oil balm to a mosquito bite in the morning and before bed. Before you know it, you’ll soon stop scratching and start healing! ROSEMARY Now, let’s talk about everyone’s favorite part of summer – food! For topping off your signature dishes, nothing tastes better than a pinch of rosemary. Its delicious, aromatic flavor is a wonderful addition to any summer cuisine. Rosemary is perfect for adding as a light coating to roasted chicken and root vegetables. This herb also works well when blended with olive oil for rubs. And while you’re munching away, you’ll also be helping your digestive system. Rosemary actively reduces inflammation and indigestion, even for the most sensitive stomachs. Thankfully, all ages can reap the benefits of incorporating rosemary into their diet! As always, everyone’s favorite herbs depend on their preference. For me, I find an abundance of joy incorporating these herbs into everyday living. This summer, don’t be afraid to experiment with different herbs, oils, and seasonings to find out which work best for you! Marissa has been drawn to the world of aromatics and plants since she was a child. Certified in aromatherapy, Reiki, and meditation, she is determined to create a life centered around healing others. Additionally, Marissa is a holistic life coach, and works towards helping others heal while simultaneously getting in touch with their spiritual side. As Herbstalk's Market Manager & Community Engagement Assistant, Marissa draws upon years of experience to oversee Herbstalk’s vendor relations, event management, and social media outreach. As a longtime attendee and member of the Herbstalk community, she is beyond thrilled to be a part of the team! by Steph Zabel Despite the plant abundance, beauty and delight that is apparent during summer, I must confess.... this is not my favorite season. Is that a surprise? I tend to have a hard time with heat (and this year we've had a lot!) and constant glaring, bright, sunny days. It may sound counter-intuitive (especially for someone who is an herbalist!), but summer has always been the season I struggle the most with. I can't be the only one who feels this way, right?!... Perhaps it has something to do with growing up in extreme hot weather climates for so many years. I spent the majority of my life living in South Carolina AND in Texas, where most of the year is very bright, hot and sweaty. For some people -- for some constitutions, that is -- the heat is simply too aggrevating. And I am no exception. This is why some people prefer cold foods over hot foods, or why some people wear tank tops in an air-conditioned room while others must wear a sweater. We are all so unique in our constitutions and what we crave, need or gravitate towards. This has always fascinated me. But back to the heat: if you're like me and are having trouble with the current season there are plenty of things you can do to make yourself more comfortable until that first gentle whisper of autumn arrives.... Here are some of my favorite hot weather herbs and strategies: 1. Hibiscus |
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