Cooling the Heart with Citrus + Basil Zucchini Salad

In Classical Chinese Medicine, the Heart is the sovereign—it governs blood circulation, mental clarity, and the anchoring of the spirit (Shen). In summer, Heart Fire naturally rises. But when unsupported, it can flare—leading to insomnia, anxiety, skin rashes, or restlessness. We don’t need to fight fire—we need to cool and contain it.

Recipe: Citrus + Basil Zucchini Salad

• 2 small zucchini, shaved thin with a peeler

• Juice of 1/2 lemon

• Zest of 1 blood orange

• Handful of fresh basil, torn

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• Sea salt to taste

• Optional: shaved pecorino or soft goat cheese for protein

Instructions:

Toss all ingredients gently. Let sit for 10–15 minutes to marinate and soften. Serve room temperature.

Zucchini nourishes fluids and clears heat.

Basil gently moves Qi and helps digestion.

Citrus supports the Spleen Soil while cooling the Liver Wood.

Pair with grilled white fish or boiled eggs for a full meal.

Eat this when you’re feeling overheated, agitated, or tired after sun exposure. Add a grounding starch like millet or a boiled egg for more stability.

You know I added a lot of pecorino on mine!