TL;DR: When summer heat gets overwhelming, cool down with my "Pura Flor Chillaxing Tea Blend." This herbal mix features hibiscus, chamomile, rose hips, cinnamon, rose petals, and lavender to soothe both body and mind. It’s a refreshing, antioxidant-packed drink that helps you stay calm and balanced during those sweltering days. Just steep, chill, and enjoy the benefits—but remember, I'm a psychotherapist, not an herbalist, so consult your healthcare provider. Stay cool! |
Summer is upon us, and while we love basking in the sunshine (or not), the heat can sometimes be a bit much. I am not a sun dweller, and honestly, I get a little panicked and very cranky when the temps go above 80 degrees (F).
In 2020, an annual heat wave was coming our way (along with potential black outs - ugh!). So I blended this combo to support me through the oncoming yuck-fest, and add a little beauty along the way.
When I was done putting these herbs together, I realized "Dang! Es pura flor!" ("Dang! It's pure flowers!"). So there you go, I present to you "Pura Flor Chillaxing tea blend" (aka Que Purdy tea blend, aka Jamaica y Friends Cooler), made especially for you heat dodgers and shade seekers.
Chillax Pura Flor: Cast of Characters: (in order of appearance)
Hibiscus: This vibrant flower is the showstopper of the tea world. Not only does it give your brew a stunning ruby color, but hibiscus is also known for its cooling properties. It’s packed with antioxidants, which are great for battling the oxidative stress that can build up when you’re exposed to too much sun. Plus, hibiscus is naturally tangy and refreshing, which makes it the perfect base for a summer cooler.
Chamomile Chamomile is the herb equivalent of a lullaby. It’s soothing, anti-inflammatory, and helps to reduce stress and anxiety. On hot days, when the heat can easily trigger restlessness or crankiness, chamomile helps to keep things cool – both inside and out.
Rose Hips: These little fruits from the wild rose bush are a powerhouse of Vitamin C. While they’re boosting your immune system, they’re also working to reduce inflammation and provide a subtle floral flavor. Rose hips are thought to help with skin health too, and who doesn’t want a little glow when the sun’s out?
Cinnamon Bark: You might associate cinnamon with cozy winter nights, but it’s also fantastic for hot days. Cinnamon can help regulate blood sugar levels, which can be particularly beneficial when you’re feeling sluggish from the heat. It also adds a sweet, warming note to the tea without making it heavy – think of it as a gentle hug from your beverage.
Rose Petals: Beyond making your tea look like something from a Jane Austen novel, rose petals have a calming effect on the mind. They’re often used in aromatherapy to reduce anxiety and stress. Be careful though. Only a tiny bit is needed because this flower packs a punch.
Lavender: The ultimate stress buster. This aromatic herb is known for its ability to calm the nervous system and promote relaxation. On a sweltering day, when you’re at risk of turning into a puddle of irritation, lavender is like a gentle breeze for your psyche. Like rose petals, a tiny bit goes a long way since lavender can be easily overpowering.
How to Make This Blend
It’s as simple as steeping these herbs in hot water for about four hours—yes, four hours. The extended steeping time allows all those beneficial compounds to really meld together and soften the rosehips. After that, strain the herbs out and chill the tea over ice, or pop it in the fridge. You can even pour the tea into ice cube trays for a fun, cooling twist that won’t water down your drink.
Emotional and Psychological Benefits
On a hot day, we’re not just physically uncomfortable; our minds can also feel the strain. Heat often brings about irritability, lethargy, and even a sense of being overwhelmed. The herbs in this blend are not only cooling to the body but also soothing to the psyche. Chamomile and lavender work wonders on anxiety and stress, while rose petals and rose hips uplift the spirit. Hibiscus and cinnamon can help you stay grounded and balanced, preventing the heat from getting to your head—literally and figuratively.
Extra Cooling Add-Ins
If you’re looking to up your cooling game, here are three more herbs to consider adding to your blend:
Peppermint: This one’s a no-brainer. Peppermint’s menthol content gives a cooling sensation that’s perfect for a heatwave. It’s also great for digestion, which can be sluggish when it’s hot.
Lemongrass: This herb not only adds a citrusy zing but also has cooling properties that are great for soothing overheated systems. It’s also said to have mood-lifting effects, which can be a lifesaver on those sticky days when everything feels like too much.
Lemon Balm: Known for its calming effects, lemon balm also has a refreshing lemony flavor. It’s perfect for when the heat has you feeling a little fried – mentally and physically.
For the best flavor, I highly suggest preparing this blend a day in advance. Allowing the ingredients to meld together overnight will enhance the overall taste and complexity of the blend. By giving the flavors time to marry, you'll notice a richer and more harmonious profile when you finally enjoy the blend. This extra step of preparation not only intensifies the flavors but also allows for a smoother and more balanced drinking experience. So, take the time to plan ahead and make this blend a day before you intend to consume it, and you'll be rewarded with a more satisfying and well-developed beverage.
So, next time the sun is beating down and the air feels heavy, try this herbal tea blend. Not only will it help you cool down physically, but it will also help you stay cool mentally and emotionally. Stay chill!
A Little Disclaimer
As much as I love diving into the world of herbs, I must remind you: I’m a psychotherapist, not an herbalist or a doctor. This blend is based on common knowledge of these herbs’ properties, but it’s important to do your own research and consult with a healthcare provider if you have any concerns, conditions, or taking medication. Listen to your body and use your discretion.
Disclaimer: This blog post is crafted with the assistance of Google Gemini and Chat GPT-4 for research and editing purposes. No advertisements or paid affiliations are associated with its content.
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