Beat the Summer Heat with Watermelon~

“Summerheat” is actually considered a pathogenic factor in TCM. Other pathogenic/environmental factors include dampness, dryness, wind, cold, heat, and fire. Summerheat is associated with damage to fluids, affecting the lungs and heart, resulting in nausea, fatigue, heaviness of the head and limbs, profuse sweating, loose stools, and more - think heat stroke.

Watermelon, or xi gua, helps to combat summer heat and prevent these symptoms on hot days. You can simply eat watermelon, you could make an infusion of watermelon rind in filtered water, or you could make a fancy watermelon mocktail like the one below!

Lotus root and mung beans are other cooling food-grade medicinals that help relieve “summer-heat.”

Sparkling Watermelon Mint Refresher

Ingredients:

• 3 cups diced seedless watermelon

• ¼ cup freshly squeezed lime juice

• ½ cup fresh mint leaves, tightly packed

• 1 tablespoon honey, agave, or maple syrup (your choice)

• 2 cups chilled club soda

• Ice cubes

• Optional: lime slices and extra mint for garnish

Directions:

1. Blend the Base:
   In a high-speed blender, combine the watermelon chunks, lime juice, mint leaves, and your preferred sweetener. Blend until the mixture is smooth and well combined.

2. Strain for Smoothness:
   Using a fine mesh strainer, pour the blended liquid into a bowl or large measuring cup to catch any leftover pulp or mint bits. Discard the solids.

3. Assemble the Drink:
   Fill glasses with ice. Pour the strained watermelon mixture into each glass, filling about three-quarters full. Top off with club soda and stir gently.

4. Garnish & Serve:
   Add a wedge of lime and a sprig of fresh mint to each glass for a bright, refreshing finish. Serve immediately.