Staying Cool Naturally: Herbal Allies for the Dog Days of Summer

When the high desert sun is at its fiercest and the monsoons are late, staying cool becomes more than just a comfort; it’s a necessity. At Byers Ranch Apothecary, we turn to time-tested plant allies to help keep our bodies and spirits balanced through the hottest stretch of the year. Here are some of our favorite ways to chill out naturally:

Peppermint: Nature’s Air Conditioner

Peppermint is a classic cooling herb, thanks to its menthol content. A simple peppermint tea (iced, of course) can help regulate body temperature from the inside out. For extra relief, try a peppermint facial mist or a cooling foot soak after a long day outside.

One of our favorite ways to use peppermint is in a cooling summer tea. It’s simple, refreshing, and helps calm the heat both physically and mentally.

Simple Mint & Lemon Balm Iced Tea

1 tablespoon dried peppermint

1 tablespoon dried lemon balm

4 cups hot water

Steep for 5–7 minutes, strain, and chill. Serve over ice with a squeeze of lemon or a sprig of fresh mint.

Chamomile: Calm the Heat (and the Mind)

Chamomile isn’t just for bedtime. It has gentle cooling properties that soothe both the nervous system and overheated skin. Brew a strong tea, chill it in the fridge, and use it as a compress for sun-touched skin or to dab on flushed cheeks after a day outdoors.

Simple Chamomile Cooling Compress

2 tablespoons dried chamomile

2 cups hot water

Steep for 10 minutes, then strain and refrigerate until the mixture is completely cool. Soak a clean cloth in the tea, wring it out, and place it over the neck, face, or chest to cool down, calm redness, and unwind—store excess in the fridge for up to 5 days. 

Rose: Cooling & Hydrating for Skin and Spirit

Rose has been used for centuries to cool the body, lift the mood, and hydrate the skin. Spritzing a rosewater mist feels like stepping into a shaded garden, even on the hottest days.

You can also add dried rose petals to your summer tea blends for a floral, refreshing note, or try this simple rose infusion for an easy cooling ritual:

Simple Rose Petal Face Splash

2 tablespoons dried rose petals

2 cups hot water

Steep the petals until the water is fragrant and blush-colored (about 10 minutes). Strain and let it cool. Store in the fridge and use as a gentle face splash or a cooling rinse throughout the day. It’s like a mini reset when the heat gets heavy.

Lemon Balm: Gentle Cool-Down for the Whole System

Lemon balm calms the nerves and cools mild inflammation, making it perfect for those hot, restless days when tempers flare. Sip it as an iced tea or make a sun tea on the porch for an easy summer ritual.

It’s also lovely for the skin. Try this simple Lemon Balm & Rose Cooling Spray for a quick mood lift and cool-down:

DIY Lemon Balm & Rose Cooling Spray

½ cup strong lemon balm tea (cooled)

¼ cup witch hazel (alcohol-free is best)

1 tablespoon rosewater or 1 tablespoon strong rose petal tea

Mix the ingredients in a spray bottle, shake gently, and store it in the refrigerator. Spritz on the face, neck, or chest anytime you need to cool off and reset.

Cucumber & Aloe: Skin Soothers for Hot Days

While not technically herbs, cucumber and aloe are summer staples. Both help to hydrate and cool the skin naturally, especially when the sun’s been a little too friendly.

We love using aloe vera gel with a splash of peppermint hydrosol, or keeping sliced cucumbers in the fridge for cooling eye compresses—but here’s another simple trick:

Cucumber & Aloe Cooling Cubes

½ cup fresh cucumber (blended or juiced)

½ cup aloe vera gel

Blend together and pour into an ice cube tray. Once frozen, pop out a cube and let it melt slightly before rubbing gently over the face, neck, or chest. It’s like nature’s ice pack, soothing, hydrating, and instantly refreshing.

Herbal Soaks & Sprays

An herbal foot soak or body spray is one of the simplest ways to reset when you’re overheated. Try adding a handful of mint, rose, or chamomile to cool water for a quick refresh soak, or keep an herbal hydrosol in the fridge for an instant chill.

Looking for an easy grab-and-go option?

Our High Noon Cooling Spray is blended with chamomile, lemon balm, witch hazel, and aloe to help cool the skin, soothe sun-kissed spots, and refresh on hot afternoons. Keep a bottle in your bag, your fridge, or your market tote for a quick pick-me-up anytime the heat sets in.

Honor the Season by Staying Cool Naturally

Summer’s heat has its place; it encourages us to slow down, seek shade, and tune into nature’s rhythm. By working with herbs that cool and balance the body, we can learn the art of staying cool naturally and move through the dog days with more comfort, grace, and gratitude. Until next time, stay cool.

Disclaimer

The content on thisunboundlife.com is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Natural does not always mean safe — especially during pregnancy, nursing, or when taking medications. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider before using herbal remedies.

We are not medical professionals, and while we strive for accuracy using reputable sources, it is the reader’s responsibility to ensure proper plant identification and consult professionals regarding any health concerns.

This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.