The Fire Type: Cooling Heat and Easing Dryness
In traditional Western herbalism, “fire types” describe people who run warm, focused, and quick to react. Under strain, this warmth can feel amplified — the skin flushes, thinking sharpens, and dryness may feel more like sensitivity or irritation. These descriptions are traditional patterns, not medical categories.
How stress affects the fire pattern
Fire types often push through tiredness or lean on caffeine. In traditional thinking, this builds internal heat and reduces the sense of ease or moisture in the body.
Food and drink that support cooling (traditional guidance)
Fire types often feel better with foods and drinks that soften heat and encourage hydration.
Helpful choices include:
- plenty of fluids (water, herbal infusions, oat milk)
- hydrating foods like leafy greens and fruit
- oils from nuts, seeds, and olives
Reducing stimulants or alcohol in the evening may help the system settle.
Movement and mind
Cooling movement helps balance a fiery pattern — slow swimming, gentle yoga, tai chi, relaxed walking. A simple breath pattern (inhale through the nose, slow exhale through the mouth) calms urgency.
Herbal allies (traditional use)
These herbs are traditionally used to cool, soothe, or soften heat:
Lemon balm — traditionally used to ease nervous tension.
Chamomile — used to soften irritation and settle digestion.
Marshmallow root — used for its moistening, cooling qualities.
Rose petals — historically used to calm emotional heat.
A simple tea blend (traditional use)
Lemon balm, chamomile, and rose. Cover while steeping and enjoy slowly.
Safety and sourcing
Most people tolerate these herbs well. Marshmallow may slow tablet absorption — take medicines an hour apart.
Choose high-quality, organic herbs. The Sustainable Herbs Initiative has advice on buying responsibly.