Summer Solstice for the Herbalist: Celebrating Midsummer with Nature

The Summer Solstice, also known as Midsummer or Litha, is more than just another day on the calendar. It's the longest day of the year, the peak of daylight and a time to celebrate the abundance of nature and engage in reflective rituals.

As nature reaches its most expansive, expressive phase, we’re reminded that we, too, are cyclical beings. At this time of year, much like the natural world around us, we are in full bloom. Our senses are their most alive, and we are the most vibrant versions of ourselves. Midsummer is a time to gather, celebrate, and connect with plants, people, and ourselves.

Occurring around June 20–21 in the Northern Hemisphere, the Summer Solstice marks the sun's zenith. From this point forward, the days begin to shorten, making it a natural moment of both abundance and quiet transition. For centuries, cultures around the world have honoured this day with different celebrations, from fire festivals and sun rituals to harvesting herbs, communities around the globe spend this day honouring the power of light and life.

Summer Solstice for the Herbalist

Herbs have long played a significant role in Summer Solstice traditions—used not just for their beauty and fragrance, but for their deep symbolism and healing power. In many cultures, herbal bundles were gathered and gifted to neighbours or family as a gesture of goodwill, protection, and connection to the land. Aromatic plants were burned in bonfires, hung in doorways, worn as wreaths, or woven into festival décor.

These aren’t just seasonal decorations—they’re living medicine, grown under the full strength of the sun, carrying the energy and resilience of the season. Many of these herbs were saved or dried to support the body and spirit during the darker, colder months ahead.

Some of the most beloved herbs associated with the solstice include:

• St. John's Wort – St John's Wort typically blooms and is harvested during the Summer Solstice. St John's Wort is known for lifting the mood and is often referred to as sunshine in plant form.

• Rose – Rose thrives in the full sun and are known for their heart-opening, emotionally balancing properties.

• Mugwort – Mugwort can be used for dreaming, protection, and spiritual clarity.

• Calendula – Calendula is commonly used for skin health, especially when spending time under the sun. Calenda is often referred to as solar energy in plant form.

• Chamomile – Chamomile can be used to calm and soothe the nervous system.

• Nettle – Nettle is nutrient-dense and grounding.

• Thyme, sage, mint, fennel, elderflower, verbena, meadowsweet – all connected to celebration, protection, and wellness

No matter what’s blooming near you, gathering herbs with intention and gratitude this time of year is a powerful way to connect with the rhythms of nature. Whether you’re drying bundles, brewing a solstice tea, or simply placing flowers in your hair, you're honouring the season and carrying a little bit of the sun with you.

Rituals for the Summer Solstice

The Summer Solstice is an ideal time to connect with feelings of strength, courage and abundance and harness the energy of the sun. Some rituals that you can practice are:

1. Harvest with Intention

Many herbs reach their peak potency around this time. Whether you’re wildcrafting or harvesting from your garden, do so with reverence. Early morning is best for capturing essential oils.

2. Brew a Sun Tea

Let the solar energy infuse your herbs. Try combinations like lemon balm + rose + hibiscus or peppermint + calendula + lavender. Place in a jar with spring water and let the sun do its magic.

3. Light a Fire (Even a Candle Counts)

Solstice is traditionally celebrated with fire. Use it to release what’s no longer needed, set intentions, or simply honor the light within.

4. Make a Floral Crown or Offering

Weave yarrow, mugwort, lavender, and wildflowers into a crown or altar bundle. Offer it back to the Earth with gratitude.

5. Journal, Reflect, Recommit

What are you blooming toward? What needs pruning? Use the solstice to check in with your path, your health, and your joy.

6. Watch the Sunrise and Sunset

Connect with the sun and the rhythms of nature by watching the sunset and sunrise.

7. Prepare Herbal Medicines for the Summer Season

From natural bug sprays to herbal after-sun remedies, the list of herbal remedies for the summer season is endless. Honour the shifting of seasons by preparing for the season ahead!

As the sun reaches its peak and the days slowly begin to shorten, the Summer Solstice invites us to pause, reflect, and celebrate the light—both around us and within us. Whether you're gathering herbs, lighting a candle, or simply stepping outside to feel the sun on your skin, may this season bring you clarity, connection, and joy.