​7 cooling spices for summer (and how to use them effectively)

You will be surprised to know that spices are effective coolers and can be helpful during the summer season.

Spices are not only flavor enhancers but also have various health benefits, including cooling properties that can help your body stay balanced during the hot summer months. Contrary to popular opinion that they raise body temperature, here are seven cooling spices that are particularly effective in the summer and tips on how to use them effectively.

Mint has natural cooling properties that can help reduce body heat and provide a refreshing sensation. It is also known for its digestive benefits, making it ideal for summer consumption.

How to use mint during summer season

Mint water: Add a handful of fresh mint leaves to a pitcher of water. Let it infuse for a few hours and enjoy a refreshing drink throughout the day.

Mint chutney: Blend mint leaves with cilantro, green chilies, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt to make a cooling chutney. Serve with grilled meats or vegetables.

Mint yogurt: Mix chopped mint leaves into plain yogurt for a cooling raita, which pairs well with spicy dishes.

Fennel seeds have a sweet, slightly licorice-like flavor and are known for their cooling effect on the body. They also aid digestion and can help reduce bloating.

How to use fennel seeds during summer season

Fennel tea: Boil a teaspoon of fennel seeds in water, let it steep, and strain. Drink the tea warm or chilled.

Mukhwas: Chew on a small handful of fennel seeds after meals to freshen your breath and cool your body.

Salad additive: Add crushed fennel seeds to salads for a hint of sweetness and cooling effect.

​Australia's first human case of bird flu confirmed in a child who got the infection while in India​

Coriander seeds and leaves are both cooling in nature. They are particularly effective in reducing body heat and aiding digestion.

How to use coriander seeds

Coriander water: Soak a teaspoon of coriander seeds in water overnight. Strain and drink the water in the morning.

Coriander chutney: Blend fresh coriander leaves with green chilies, ginger, and lemon juice to make a cooling chutney.

Coriander in cooking: Use coriander powder in curries and soups to add a cooling effect.

Cumin seeds have a mild cooling effect and are excellent for digestion. They can help balance the body’s heat and prevent digestive issues.

How to use cumin seeds

Cumin water: Boil a teaspoon of cumin seeds in water, let it cool, and drink throughout the day.

Cumin spice mix: Toast and grind cumin seeds to sprinkle over salads, yogurt, and roasted vegetables.

Cumin in dishes: Add cumin seeds to your cooking, especially in summer soups and stews.

Cardamom is known for its sweet, aromatic flavor and cooling properties. It helps in detoxifying the body and improving digestion.

How to use cardamom
Cardamom tea: Add a few crushed cardamom pods to your tea for a refreshing flavor.

Desserts: Use ground cardamom in summer desserts like rice pudding, smoothies, and ice creams.

Cardamom milk: Add cardamom powder to chilled milk for a cooling and fragrant drink.

Turmeric has anti-inflammatory properties and can help cool the body. It is also known for its detoxifying benefits.

How to use turmeric powder
Golden milk: Mix turmeric powder with milk (dairy or plant-based), add a pinch of black pepper, and chill for a refreshing drink.

Turmeric smoothies: Add turmeric to your morning smoothie for an anti-inflammatory boost.

Salad dressings: Incorporate turmeric powder into salad dressings for a cooling effect.

Fenugreek seeds and leaves have cooling properties and help in balancing the body’s temperature. They are also beneficial for digestion and reducing internal inflammation.

How to use fenugreek
Fenugreek water: Soak fenugreek seeds in water overnight. Strain and drink the water in the morning to start your day with a cooling beverage.

Fenugreek leaves: Use fresh fenugreek leaves in salads or cooked dishes to benefit from their cooling properties.

Sprouted fenugreek: Add sprouted fenugreek seeds to your salads for a cooling crunch.