As temperatures climb and summer settles in, our bodies naturally look for ways to regulate internal heat. In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), summer is governed by the Fire element, which corresponds to the Heart and Small Intestine meridians. This is a time of maximum Yang — outward energy, brightness, and activity. But too much heat can lead to agitation, irritability, insomnia, and even digestive discomfort. That’s why it’s essential during summer to nourish Yin, disperse excess heat, and support the Heart’s function.

One of the simplest and most effective ways to help the body stay balanced in this season is through cooling teas. These aren’t teas in the Western black or green tea sense, but herbal infusions that have been used in Eastern traditions for centuries. Today I’ll share a classic recipe that is still widely used across Asia during the hottest months — Chrysanthemum and Honeysuckle Flower tea.

Why These Herbs?

Chrysanthemum (Ju Hua): In TCM, Chrysanthemum is known for its ability to disperse Wind and clear internal Heat, particularly from the Liver and Lungs. It’s especially helpful for heat-related symptoms like red eyes, light-headedness, and tension headaches. It also has a gentle, calming effect on the spirit (Shen), making it ideal for those who feel restless or agitated during summer nights.

Honeysuckle Flower (Jin Yin Hua): Honeysuckle clears Heat and relieves toxicity. It’s traditionally used to cool the blood and treat sore throats, fevers, and skin eruptions, but even in a simple tea it gently supports the immune system and helps the body release excess internal heat. Its sweet and slightly floral flavor also makes the tea quite pleasant to drink.

Traditional Cooling Tea Recipe

Here’s how to prepare a simple, effective version of this tea using these two herbs. You can find them in most Chinese herb shops or well-stocked health food stores.

Ingredients (makes about 3 cups):

• 1 tablespoon dried Chrysanthemum flowers (Ju Hua)
• 1 tablespoon dried Honeysuckle flowers (Jin Yin Hua)
• Optional: A few Goji berries (Gou Qi Zi) for a touch of sweetness and to support Liver Yin

Directions:

1. Rinse the herbs briefly under cold water to remove any dust.
2. Place them in a teapot or large cup, and pour about 3 cups of boiling water over them.
3. Cover and steep for 10 to 15 minutes.
4. Strain and enjoy warm or at room temperature. You can also refrigerate and serve it cool, which is ideal during hot afternoons.

This tea is gentle enough for daily use during summer, especially if you tend toward heat symptoms — such as sore throat, dry eyes, insomnia, or irritability. It is not a tonic, so it’s unlikely to overstimulate the system. That said, if you’re pregnant, nursing, or on medication, it’s best to consult a qualified practitioner before using herbs regularly.

Seasonal Living in Practice

In TCM, summer is also the season of growth and connection. The Heart governs consciousness and joy. When in balance, this season encourages us to open up, enjoy relationships, and express ourselves. But when overwhelmed by heat or overstimulation, it’s easy to burn out. The simplicity of making and drinking a cooling tea like this serves two purposes: physically, it helps the body clear excess heat; energetically, it encourages us to slow down and be present.

Take 10 minutes in the afternoon to prepare this tea and sit quietly while drinking it. No screens, no multitasking. Just let the body cool and the mind soften. Summer is short. Your nervous system will thank you.

Here’s to staying cool — both inside and out.

Jake