Cool Down Naturally: Traditional Chinese Teas That Reduce Internal "Heat"

In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), maintaining balance within the body is essential for overall well-being. One common concern, especially during warmer months or periods of stress and rich food, is the buildup of "internal heat" (上火, shàng huǒ). Symptoms can include sore throat, acne, irritability, dry mouth, and even constipation.

Fortunately, Chinese tea culture offers centuries of wisdom and a delicious way, to help restore balance. Many traditional teas are believed to have cooling properties that can gently reduce internal heat and promote harmony in the body.

What Is "Heat" in TCM?

In TCM, "heat" doesn't refer to body temperature alone but a pattern of imbalance often caused by diet, emotions, or environment. Foods that are spicy, fried, or greasy, as well as alcohol and stress, can all contribute to "heatiness."

To counteract this, TCM recommends incorporating cooling (凉性, liáng xìng) foods and beverages, like certain teas.

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Top Traditional Chinese Teas for Reducing Internal Heat

1. Chrysanthemum Tea (菊花茶, Jú Huā Chá)

A classic cooling tea, chrysanthemum is known for clearing heat and calming the liver. It's often enjoyed during hot weather or when experiencing dry eyes and sore throat. Light, floral, and caffeine-free, it’s a great daily option.

Best for: Eye strain, sore throat, heat-related headaches.

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2. Liu An Gua Pian (六安瓜片)

This green tea from Anhui Province is known for its cooling energy and smooth, rich flavor. Like many green teas, it helps clear liver fire and soothe the stomach.

Best for: General internal heat, digestion, daily cooling support.

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3. White Peony (白牡丹, Bái Mǔ Dān)

Delicate and slightly floral, White Peony is a lightly oxidized white tea with cooling properties. It is said to nourish yin, clear heat, and gently detoxify the body.

Best for: Acne, dry skin, and inflammation due to heat imbalance.

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4. Lotus Leaf Tea (荷叶茶, Hé Yè Chá)

Lotus leaf is another herbal favourite in TCM. Light and slightly grassy, it’s praised for reducing summer heat, aiding digestion, and even supporting weight management.

Best for: Summer fatigue, bloating, heat-related irritability.

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5. Honeysuckle Tea (金银花茶, Jīn Yín Huā Chá)

Often used in Chinese herbal medicine, honeysuckle flower is highly regarded for its ability to clear heat and detoxify. It’s commonly used when the body shows signs of heat-induced imbalance like sore throat or skin issues.

Best for: Inflammation, detoxification, sore throat.

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6. Green Teas (绿茶, Lǜ Chá)

Most green teas, including Dragon Well (龙井) and Biluochun (碧螺春), are considered cooling and beneficial for clearing internal heat. Their antioxidant-rich profiles support liver function and overall body balance.

Best for: Overheating from diet or stress, and supporting clarity and energy.

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How to Brew for Cooling Benefits

• Use slightly lower water temperatures (especially for green and white teas) to preserve delicate compounds.

• Avoid over-steeping, which can make teas bitter and less soothing.

• Enjoy warm or room-temperature, rather than iced, for optimal TCM benefits.

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Finding the Right Balance

While these teas can help reduce internal heat, it's important to listen to your body. Those with naturally cold constitutions (虚寒体质) may want to balance cooling teas with warming ones, like aged Pu-erh or roasted oolong, depending on their needs.

At Tea King, we offer a curated selection of traditional Chinese teas, including many with natural cooling properties. Whether you're seeking relief from heat-related symptoms or simply want to enjoy a refreshing, balanced cup, we're here to help you find the perfect brew.

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Explore Our Cooling Tea Collection

Visit our online store to discover teas that not only taste wonderful, but help bring your body back into balance.

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Tea is more than a drink, it’s a tradition, a remedy, and a ritual.
Let us help you find calm and clarity, one cup at a time.