Too Hot to Function? These 3 TCM Herbal Recipes Will Save Your Summer

In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), summer is associated with heat, Yang energy, and the Heart. When temperatures rise, excess internal heat can lead to fatigue, thirst, irritability, poor digestion, and dull skin. That’s why summer is the perfect time to enjoy cooling, Yin-nourishing herbal blends that help the body stay balanced.

Here are our top 3 summer herbal blends and recipes you can easily make at home.

1. Chrysanthemum & Goji Berry Tea (Hot or Cold Brew)

A gentle yet powerful summer tea, chrysanthemum and goji berry is a classic TCM pairing that cools without being overly cold.

TCM Summer Benefits

• Clears internal heat and soothes the Liver, which can become overheated in summer
• Calms the eyes and head, ideal for screen fatigue and heat-related discomfort
• Nourishes Liver and Kidney Yin with goji berries, preventing dryness from excessive heat

This blend is especially helpful during hot weather when heat rises upward, causing headaches, red eyes, or irritability.

Recipe: Chrysanthemum & Goji Berry Tea

Ingredients:

• 1–2 tbsp dried chrysanthemum flowers
• 1 tbsp goji berries
• 3–4 cups hot water

Instructions (Hot Tea):

1. Rinse chrysanthemum flowers briefly.
2. Add chrysanthemum and goji berries to a teapot or mug.
3. Pour hot water over the herbs.
4. Steep for 5–8 minutes.
5. Strain and enjoy warm.

Cold Brew Option:

1. Add herbs to a jug with 4 cups of cold water.
2. Refrigerate for 6–8 hours or overnight.
3. Strain and serve over ice.

 

2. Chinese Barley (Coix Seed) & Lemon Brew

Optional: Pandan Leaves & Preserved Wintermelon

Light, refreshing, and grounding, this Chinese barley and lemon brew is a summer essential in TCM households.

TCM Summer Benefits

• Drains dampness and supports the Spleen, which can be weakened by summer humidity
• Helps relieve heaviness, bloating, and sluggish digestion common in hot weather
• Lemon gently moves Qi and refreshes the senses, preventing summer lethargy

This blend is ideal when summer heat combines with dampness, leaving you feeling tired, puffy, or uncomfortable.

Recipe: Chinese Barley & Lemon Brew

Ingredients:

• ½ cup Chinese barley (coix seed)
• 6–8 cups water
• 2–3 slices fresh lemon
• Rock sugar or honey (to taste)

Optional Add-Ons:

• 1–2 pandan leaves, tied in a knot
• A few cubes of preserved wintermelon

Instructions:

1. Rinse Chinese barley thoroughly.
2. Add barley and water to a pot and bring to a boil.
3. Lower heat and simmer for 60 minutes or until barley is soft.
4. Add pandan leaves and wintermelon (if using) during the last 10 minutes.
5. Strain, add lemon slices once slightly cooled, and sweeten lightly if desired.
6. Chill before serving.

 

3. The Herborium Glow Herbal Dessert

Yin nourishing, and deeply hydrating, this dessert with peach gum and snow fungus is a TCM favourite for restoring balance during long, hot days.

TCM Summer Benefits

• Nourishes Yin and fluids, which are easily depleted by summer heat and sweating
• Supports Lung and Stomach Yin, helping with dryness, thirst, and dull skin
• Promotes a soft, hydrated glow from the inside out

This dessert is especially beneficial if you experience dry skin, dry throat, or feel overheated despite drinking plenty of fluids.

Find the Glow Herbal Dessert here and the recipe here.

 

Summer Balance Starts From Within

According to TCM, the key to summer wellness is clearing heat, supporting digestion, and protecting Yin. These cooling summer herbal recipes are here to help you stay refreshed, energised, and glowing, naturally and deliciously.