Reaching for a warm drink on a blazing day sounds odd, yet it’s something many of us grew up seeing – a fresh pot of rooibos on the stoep, even when the sun is unforgiving.
But is there any real cooling magic behind that steaming cup, or is it simply habit? Surprisingly, the answer sits somewhere in the middle.
Why a warm drink can help
A hot drink sends a signal to your body that your temperature has gone up. In response, you begin to sweat a little more than usual. As that sweat evaporates, it releases heat from your skin and helps bring your temperature down. The drink isn’t cooling you – the evaporation is.
Studies have shown that this works best when the air around you is dry and there’s enough breeze for sweat to evaporate properly. In that setting, a warm cup can help you feel lighter and more comfortable.
When it won’t work
Unfortunately, this trick doesn’t help in every situation. When the air is humid or still – think coastal days when the heat clings to you – sweat doesn’t evaporate easily. Without evaporation, there’s no cooling effect. You simply get hotter and stickier, which defeats the purpose entirely.
What you wear also makes a difference. Light, breathable clothing lets sweat escape, while thick or synthetic fabrics trap moisture and heat, making you feel warmer no matter what you drink.
The refreshing side of tea
Temperature isn’t the only factor at play. Peppermint and spearmint teas contain menthol, which activates cold receptors in your mouth. This gives you a refreshing, cooling sensation even though the drink is warm. It doesn’t change your body temperature, but it does help you feel cooler – sometimes that’s all you need.
A few things to keep in mind
If you do enjoy a warm cup during summer, there are some practical points worth remembering:
- Caffeine matters: Black and green teas contain caffeine, which can increase fluid loss in some people. Balance them with water, especially on days when you’re sweating more.
- Let it cool slightly: Drinks that are extremely hot aren’t ideal for your throat over time. Warm, not boiling, is the sweet spot.
- Match your drink to the weather: A hot tea on a dry Karoo afternoon might help you cool off. On a muggy coastal day, it may only make things worse.
So… do hot drinks cool you down?
Yes – but only under the right conditions. A warm drink can help your body’s natural cooling process work a little better, provided your sweat can evaporate. On the right day, it’s a surprisingly effective trick. On the wrong day, it’s just an uncomfortable mistake.
Next time you’re deciding between iced tea and a warm cup of rooibos, simply let the weather guide you.
First published by Food & Home
Compiled by Maegan-Leigh Jacobs
Also see: Tea towels: your kitchen’s unsuspecting bacteria hotspot
