Check back soon
Once posts are published, you’ll see them here.
Herbs For Summer Support
- Jul 6
- 4 min read
As the warmth of summer settles in, our bodies and minds adjust to the shifting rhythms of longer days and more time spent outdoors. With this seasonal shift comes a unique set of needs: support for sun-exposed skin, balance for overheated nervous systems, and gentle immune and digestive care. Nature, in its perfect timing, offers an abundance of herbal allies that thrive in the summer and offer just the right kind of support during this vibrant time of year. Among these, lemon balm, calendula, lavender, plantain, and yarrow stand out as particularly useful.
Lemon balm, or Melissa officinalis, is a gentle and fragrant herb from the mint family. Known for its uplifting and calming effects on the nervous system, lemon balm can help ease the restlessness and irritability that sometimes come with too much heat or activity. It is especially supportive for those who feel overstimulated or anxious in the summer months. Traditionally used as a nervine and mild sedative, lemon balm can be sipped as a tea to soothe the mind and support restful sleep. It also has antiviral properties and can assist in calming summer colds or viral flare-ups such as cold sores. Its cooling and relaxing qualities make it a favorite in iced herbal teas and sun teas, providing a delicious way to stay hydrated while nourishing the nervous system.
Calendula, or Calendula officinalis, is a bright orange flower often associated with the warmth and joy of the sun. Internally, calendula supports the lymphatic system and digestion, helping to move stagnation and inflammation. Externally, it is a classic herb for soothing sunburns, bug bites, and minor skin irritations. Calendula’s skin-healing properties are due to its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial compounds, making it ideal for summer salves and oils. Applying calendula-infused oil after sun exposure can help cool and repair the skin while supporting its natural resilience. As a gentle bitter, calendula also supports digestion and liver function, which can be particularly helpful when summer indulgences leave the system sluggish.
Lavender, or Lavandula angustifolia, is another soothing summer ally with a long history of medicinal and aromatic use. With its ability to calm the nervous system, ease tension headaches, and promote emotional balance, lavender is perfect for maintaining equilibrium during the often-busy summer months. It can be used in teas, tinctures, and essential oil form to support stress relief and improve sleep. Lavender is also a natural antimicrobial and can be used in sprays or compresses to help clean minor cuts or support skin healing. A few drops of lavender essential oil in a cool bath or foot soak offer a refreshing way to unwind after a long day in the sun.
Plantain, or Plantago major, is a common plant often found growing underfoot in summer meadows, sidewalks, and yards. This unassuming herb is one of the best topical remedies for bug bites, stings, and small wounds. Its leaves are rich in mucilage and drawing properties, which make it ideal for soothing inflamed or irritated skin. A fresh plantain poultice can ease itching and support tissue repair, especially when applied immediately after an insect bite or nettle sting. Internally, plantain is cooling and moistening, offering support for dry or inflamed mucous membranes. It is often included in herbal teas for sore throats or digestive inflammation, and can be a helpful addition to summer wellness blends.
Yarrow, or Achillea millefolium, rounds out this group of summer-supporting herbs with its powerful ability to regulate temperature and support the immune system. Traditionally used to support the body during fevers, yarrow helps open the pores and promote healthy sweating, making it useful during overheated states or mild summer infections. Its astringent properties also make it effective for stopping bleeding from minor cuts or scrapes, which are common in outdoor play and adventure. Yarrow can be used both internally as a tea or tincture and externally as a poultice or wash for wounds. Its bitter flavor supports digestion and liver function, helping the body process rich summer foods and beverages more efficiently.
Together, these five herbs form a beautiful and practical summer apothecary. Whether infused into teas, applied as oils or salves, or simply observed growing in a garden, they offer gentle yet powerful support for the seasonal transitions we experience in body and spirit. By aligning with the rhythm of summer and welcoming these plant allies into daily rituals, we nourish ourselves with the same vibrancy that fills the fields and skies of the season.
***The content provided in this article serves solely for educational purposes and is not meant to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any illness or medical condition. In case of any health concerns about yourself, or your family or if you are pregnant, breastfeeding or currently taking any medication; it's highly recommended that you seek professional advice from a licensed healthcare practitioner.
Please note that Health Canada and the Food and Drug Administration have not assessed the information presented herein.