Ayurvedic Herbs For Beating Down Heat in Summer

 The summer season is here, with the rapid increase in temperature, it has become important to keep balance in our body and keep it cool. Exposure to direct sunlight and heat may cause excess skin irritation and rashes, also leading to allergies and acne. 

Continuous sun exposure also leads to dehydration and even heat stroke. Also, having an unhealthy lifestyle and eating junk food can lead to an increased risk of heat in the body, which triggers the “Pitta Dosh” within. 

Including cooling herbs and spices in our meals will fight hot temperatures and balance the pitta (heat) in our bodies. 

We can include the following Ayurvedic herbs in your diet plans to beat down the heat this summer:  

1. Mint:

Mint is one of the common and easily available herbs that can help you stay cool in summer. It can be used in multiple recipes and has a fresh and strong flavor, which is very refreshing. It can be used in various detox recipes too to get rid of the toxins in the body. 

2. Amla:

The antioxidants and vitamins found in amla offer several health benefits. High concentrations of vitamin C in amla helps the body recover from various illness. It also has a cooling effect on our digestive system. It also has other health benefits like controlling diabetes, keeping eyes healthy, boosting immunity, and also improving memory. 

3. Manjistha: 

Also known as Rubia Cordifolia, this is one the most treasured Ayurvedic herbs known for its cooling effect on blood and removing toxins from the body. Though this herb is a bitter astringent, it has a long list of benefits and uses. It is a potent antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-microbial herb trusted for generations in the Indian Ayurveda. 

4. Basil (tulsi):

Also known as Holy Basil, it acts as a detoxifying and cleansing agent in the human body. It dates to 3000 years and is historically used as medicine due to its widespread therapeutic power. It keeps the body cool during extreme heat and is mostly used as an herbal tea on a regular basis. It is also known for its anti-stress properties worldwide.

5. Sandalwood: 

It leaves a cooling effect on our bodies. This herb can be turned into a paste to apply to the skin. It will help us fight skin issues as well as keep us cool. 

6. Mulethi (Liquorice):

It is commonly used to treat symptoms of dry cough and sore throat. This herb can keep us cool during the summer season. One can simply chew a stick to reap the benefits.