Summer

Summer is the season of fire, heat and the heart. It's not only the garden that is coming into full bloom, we are as well. This is the season of development, activity, productivity, creativity, vitality and energy. The long days give us the time we need to put this energy to good use but at the same time the body can start to feel the strain. Some common conditions you may experience that are associated with summer and heat are inflammation, insomnia, sunburn and exhaustion.

To counteract the effects of the heat and increased energy we should seek out plants that are cooling, moistening and relaxing and choose hydrating foods. By doing so we can sustain this natural rhythm and transition into the autumn in good health.

Cooling plants are ones which slow down metabolism and decrease energy production whilst soothing irritations and redness. These include plants such as Mint, Calendula, Meadowsweet and Plantain.

Moistening plants will soften hardened, brittle and dry tissues. Marshmallow root and Comfrey are both moistening and can be used externally to to cool and strengthen the skin.

It's often difficult to get enough sleep in the never ending daylight we are so lucky to get in the summer. If you don't want to black this out then using relaxing herbs may help you to drift off. Lavender, Californian Poppy and Lemon Balm are wonderful representations of summer which are both cooling and relaxing and work nicely in a tea.

We may not get ferocious temperatures here in Shetland but the sun is strong and the days are long so use these plants to guide you through this unique summer, maintain balance and avoid burning out.