Stay cool this summer with natural medicine and herbal remedies

As we enter into the dog days of summer, it's easy to keep cool with specific foods and herbs under our belt. Using the wisdom of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), we can remain balanced, calm and energetic as the mercury rises. Particular suggestions border on simple common sense, others may be more surprising. But one aspect is certain—when the body is comfortable, healthy and at ease, the delights of summer are far more enjoyable.

The fire element, summer and you

Traditional Chinese Medicine views summer as the season of the fire element and heart. States of joy (or lack of it) as well as over excitement are associated with this time of year. The element rules the small intestine while the heart is home to aspects of consciousness like intelligence, memory, creativity, thought and sleep. Excess heat during summertime can aggravate the fire element in the body - causing lethargy, anger and irritability. However, with a measure of care and attention, we need not become imbalanced and hot under the collar. Instead, equilibrium enhancing food and drink are the perfect antidote to rising tempers.