Summer is fast approaching and the heat is pushing us to look for refreshing drinks. While water remains the benchmark, an alternative is gaining ground in our glasses: iced herbal tea. This ancestral drink, revisited for the summer season, offers much more than just a thirst-quencher.
Recent studies suggest that some cold infusions may even surpass water in terms of hydration while aiding digestion. Here’s why iced herbal tea deserves a place of honor this summer.
Cold herbal tea: much more than just a thirst-quenching drink
Traditionally consumed hot in winter, herbal tea is reinventing itself in an iced version as soon as the first rays of sunshine appear. This transformation is not just a question of temperature – it subtly modifies its properties and benefits.
Cold herbal tea retains the active ingredients of the plants while offering an immediate sensation of freshness. Unlike sodas or industrial juices, it hydrates without adding refined sugars or artificial additives. Its light taste and natural aromas make it an ideal alternative to plain water, which can sometimes be monotonous during long summer days.
Why does cold herbal tea hydrate better than plain water?
The statement may seem counterintuitive, yet several factors explain this superior hydration:
- Presence of minerals: Infused plants release minerals that promote better absorption of water by the body.
- Prolonged retention: Plant compounds slightly slow down the passage of water in the stomach, allowing for longer-lasting hydration.
- Pleasant taste: The simple fact of enjoying your drink encourages you to drink more, improving overall hydration.
A study published in the Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition showed that lightly flavored drinks encouraged participants to drink 50% more liquid than plain water, leading to better overall hydration.
The digestive virtues of cold summer herbal tea
In summer, our digestive system is sometimes put under strain by changes in diet, late meals or occasional overindulgence. Cold herbal tea can become a real digestive aid thanks to certain specific plants.
Plants with recognized digestive properties
Plant Digestive properties Flavor in cold infusion
Peppermint Antispasmodic, relieves bloating Fresh and invigorating
Ginger Anti-nausea, stimulates digestion Slightly spicy and lemony
Fennel Reduces intestinal gas Aniseed and sweet
Lemon balm Calms digestive spasms Lemon and herbaceous
Summer digestion is often slowed down by the heat. Cold herbal teas made from these plants gently stimulate the digestive system without irritating it. After a hearty meal, a cold mint or fennel herbal tea can help prevent that feeling of heaviness so common during hot weather.
How to prepare the perfect iced herbal tea
The preparation of a cold herbal tea differs slightly from its traditional hot version. Here are two proven methods for obtaining a drink with optimal flavors.
Cold brew method
- Place 2 tablespoons of dried herbs (or 4-5 sachets) in one liter of cold water
- Leave to infuse in the refrigerator for 6 to 12 hours
- Strain the plants and serve with ice cubes
This method of slow infusion preserves the most delicate aromas and reduces the potential bitterness of certain plants. It makes a particularly mild and refreshing drink.
Hot infusion then cooling method
- Prepare your herbal tea as usual, with simmering water (not boiling water).
- Use a stronger concentration than usual (about 30% more plants).
- Leave to infuse for 5-7 minutes, then filter.
- Leave to cool to room temperature before refrigerating.
This faster method extracts more active compounds from the plants. It is particularly suitable for herbal teas with digestive or therapeutic purposes.
The best combinations of plants for summer
While single-plant herbal teas have their charm, blends offer more complex flavor profiles and complementary benefits. Here are some combinations particularly suitable for summer:
For maximum hydration
- Hibiscus-mint-lemon: Rich in antioxidants, slightly tart and very thirst-quenching
- Rooibos-peach-verbena: Theine-free, naturally sweet and soothing
To aid digestion
- Mint-fennel-aniseed: Classic trio to combat bloating and slow digestion
- Ginger-lemongrass-basil: Stimulating and anti-inflammatory for the digestive system
For summer evenings
- Chamomile-lavender-lime blossom: Promotes relaxation without disturbing sleep despite the heat
- Lemon balm-verbena-orange blossom: Calms the tensions accumulated during hot days
Customizing your cold herbal tea: herbs and finishing touches
Cold herbal tea lends itself wonderfully to customization. A few simple additions can transform a basic infusion into a sophisticated drink:
- Fresh citrus fruits: Slices of lemon, orange or grapefruit add a tangy touch
- Fresh herbs: A few leaves of mint, basil or rosemary intensify the aromas
- Sweet spices: A cinnamon, cardamom or vanilla stick for warm and complex notes
- Red fruits: Raspberries, strawberries or blueberries for a slight natural sweetness
For those who prefer a slightly sweet drink without refined sugar, a teaspoon of acacia honey or agave syrup dissolves perfectly in cold herbal tea.
Precautions and contraindications
Despite their many benefits, some herbal teas require some precautions, especially in summer:
- Herbal teas containing liquorice can increase blood pressure – avoid in case of hypertension or in hot weather
- Sage infusions can reduce perspiration, a mechanism that is essential for thermal regulation in summer
- Some plants such as St. John’s wort can cause photosensitivity (skin reactions to the sun)
Pregnant women, people undergoing medical treatment or suffering from chronic conditions should consult a healthcare professional before regularly consuming herbal teas for therapeutic purposes, even cold ones.
Integrate cold herbal tea into your summer routine
To fully enjoy the benefits of cold herbal tea all summer long, a few simple habits can be adopted:
- Prepare a large pitcher every evening for the next day
- Take an insulated flask with you when you are out and about or doing outdoor activities
- Vary the blends to avoid getting bored of the taste
- Serve different cold herbal teas with meals or aperitifs (an elegant alternative to alcoholic drinks)
Cold herbal tea fits perfectly into a more comprehensive approach to summer wellbeing. Combined with a light and seasonal diet, it helps maintain the body’s balance during periods of high heat.
Testimonials and experiences
Marie, a naturopath in Lyon, systematically recommends cold herbal teas to her summer clients: “Many people suffer from mild dehydration in summer without realizing it. Water does not appeal to them enough, whereas cold herbal teas, with their pleasant taste, encourage them to drink more. I notice a clear improvement in transit and energy in those who adopt this habit. ”
Thomas, an amateur sportsman, has incorporated cold herbal teas into his hydration routine: “After discovering cold hibiscus-mint herbal tea last year, I systematically prepare some before my running outings. I feel less out of breath and recover more quickly than with plain water.”
Cold herbal tea, far from being a passing fad, represents a return to the roots of natural hydration. The plants that we infuse today are often the same as those used by our ancestors to refresh and heal themselves. The difference? We now understand scientifically why they work so well.
So this summer, when the heat sets in, remember to prepare your pitcher of iced herbal tea. Your body will thank you for this optimized hydration and your digestive system will appreciate this aromatic boost. Cold herbal tea is not just a drink – it’s a true summer wellness ritual.
