Too hot to be out and about? If you want to hike or engage in some other outdoor activity in the heat, try this: Take a bandana, dip it in cold water, wring it out, and put a drop or two of peppermint on it. Fold it in half to make a triangle, then continue to fold the smaller end toward the larger to form a long, folded strip.

You can tie it around your neck or around your head; if you have two, tie one around the bicep area of each arm for a cooling remedy.  If you are like me, and end up going hiking in the hottest part of the day (even in Arizona!), you will find this bandana tip to be a lifesaver.

If you don’t like the fashion look of wearing a bandana, a few drops of any of the following at the nape of the neck or on the temples will have a cooling effect:

•   Spearmint
•   Wintergreen
•   Peppermint (US)
•   A spritz of chilled Peppermint hydrolat

And, for a refreshing Summer drink, this really hits the spot! Take a pitcher filled with ice; fill it half way with water and then to the top with lemonade or limeade. Add 4 drops of Peppermint (US) essential oil for an amazingly refreshing, tasty beverage. Enjoy!