The Summer Cool Down Series: Foods To Clear Heat & Cool The Body
When temperatures rise, many people naturally reach for cold drinks or frozen treats. But according to Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), cooling the body goes beyond eating foods that are physically cold. Instead, foods are classified by their energetic properties, meaning certain foods naturally help clear internal heat, replenish fluids, and restore balance regardless of whether they’re served hot or cold.
If you often experience symptoms such as excessive thirst, feeling overheated, irritability, mouth ulcers, acne, or heat-related headaches during the summer, incorporating more cooling foods in Traditional Chinese Medicine may help support your body’s natural balance.*
In this guide, we’ll explore several popular cooling foods and how they’re traditionally used in Chinese medicine.
*Traditional Chinese Medicine is a holistic medical system. Food recommendations are individualized and should not replace medical care.
What Does "Heat" Mean in Traditional Chinese Medicine?
One misconception is that “heat” simply means having a fever.
In TCM, heat refers to a pattern of imbalance that may present with symptoms like:
- Feeling hot easily
- Excessive sweating
- Red complexion
- Acne or skin irritation
- Dry mouth
- Sore throat
- Constipation
- Restlessness or irritability
- Strong thirst
The goal isn’t to eliminate heat completely—it’s to restore balance between Yin and Yang. Cooling foods are often recommended when excess heat is present, particularly during the summer months.
Best Cooling Foods in Traditional Chinese Medicine
Watermelon (Xi Gua)
Watermelon is one of the most well-known cooling foods in Chinese medicine.
Traditionally, it is believed to:
- Clear summer heat
- Promote hydration
- Relieve thirst
- Support healthy fluid balance
Its naturally high water content also makes it an excellent summertime snack.
🌾 Job's Tears (Yi Yi Ren)
Despite its name, Job’s Tears is actually a grain frequently used in Chinese medicine.
It is traditionally used to:
- Support healthy fluid metabolism
- Help clear damp heat
- Support healthy-looking skin
- Promote digestive balance
Job’s Tears is commonly enjoyed in soups, porridges, or herbal preparations.
🌿 Peppermint (Bo He)
Peppermint has a refreshing nature that makes it popular during warm weather.
Traditionally, Bo He is used to:
- Help disperse wind-heat
- Support head comfort
- Soothe the throat
- Promote healthy cooling
Many people enjoy peppermint as tea or add fresh leaves to salads and summer dishes.
🫘 Mung Beans (Lu Dou)
Mung beans have been used in Chinese dietary therapy for centuries.
They are traditionally believed to:
- Clear internal heat
- Relieve thirst
- Support detoxification
- Promote hydration
Mung bean soup is a classic summertime food throughout many Asian cultures.
🌼 Chrysanthemum (Ju Hua)
Chrysanthemum flowers are commonly brewed into tea.
In Traditional Chinese Medicine they are traditionally used to:
- Clear heat
- Support eye comfort
- Soothe dry throats
- Promote relaxation
Many people enjoy chrysanthemum tea during warmer months as a refreshing beverage.
Tips for Eating Cooling Foods
While cooling foods can be beneficial during hot weather, balance remains important.
Some helpful tips include:
- Choose seasonal fruits and vegetables.
- Stay well hydrated throughout the day.
- Avoid excessive spicy or greasy foods if you’re already experiencing heat symptoms.
- Don’t rely solely on ice-cold beverages, as TCM generally emphasizes supporting healthy digestion with moderate food temperatures.
Watch our corresponding video of Vanessa M. Ho L.Ac of Healing with Zen talking about Skin Care ingredients and foods.
Interested In Learning More Ways To Clear Heat And Cool The Body? Check Out The Blogs Below!
Our Acupuncturists are also Herbalists who can create a Custom Herbal Formula just for you!
Looking for a Personalized TCM Nutrition Plan?
At Healing with Zen, our licensed acupuncturists take a whole-body approach to health. We evaluate your unique pattern of imbalance and may recommend acupuncture, customized herbal formulas, and individualized nutrition guidance to help support your wellness goals.
Schedule an appointment today to learn whether Traditional Chinese Medicine can help you feel more balanced throughout every season.
