Heatwave in India: 11 age-old remedies that are the best

With temperatures soaring to unprecedented highs, India faces the harsh reality of a relentless heatwave that sweeps across the nation each summer. Amidst this scorching heat, ancient wisdom comes to the rescue with time-honoured remedies that have been cherished for generations. These age-old practices, deeply rooted in Indian culture and Ayurveda, offer not only respite from the blistering sun but also a natural and holistic approach to maintaining health and well-being. What if we tell you that this heat can be battled with some simple home remedies? Here are some of the most effective traditional remedies that have stood the test of time, providing relief and refreshment during the hottest months of the year. From cooling drinks to soothing herbal concoctions, discover the best ways to beat the heat and stay cool naturally. Take a look. (Images courtesy: Canva)

This is one of the most popular and refreshing drinks one can enjoy during the summer season. It’s made from raw mangoes and used as a traditional Indian remedy for combating heat. Rich in vitamins and electrolytes, it helps replenish lost salts and fluids, preventing dehydration. Its cooling properties soothe the body, while its tangy and sweet flavour offers a delicious respite from the scorching summer heat, making it an essential summer beverage.

Kokum, a tropical fruit from the Western Ghats of India, is renowned for its cooling properties. Consuming kokum juice helps hydrate the body, reduce heat, and prevent dehydration. Rich in antioxidants and essential nutrients, it aids in digestion and combats acidity, making it a perfect natural remedy to stay refreshed and cool during the hot summer months.

Onions are surprisingly effective in helping to beat the heat. Consuming raw onions, particularly in salads and chutneys, can help cool the body and prevent sunstroke. Their high water content and natural cooling properties aid in hydration. Additionally, onions contain quercetin, an antioxidant that has anti-inflammatory properties, making them a beneficial addition to your summer diet.

This is yet another popular drink enjoyed in summer and is mostly consumed in UP and Bihar. Prepared from roasted gram flour, this is an excellent summer drink to beat the heat. Rich in protein and fibre, it provides instant energy and helps maintain hydration. Its cooling properties aid in regulating body temperature, while the addition of lemon and black salt enhances electrolyte balance. This refreshing drink effectively combats heat exhaustion and keeps you energised throughout the day.

Prepared from ragi or finger millet flour which is also known as nachni, this is an excellent summer beverage that helps beat the heat. It's rich in calcium, fibre, and essential nutrients, and provides a cooling effect on the body. The malt is prepared by mixing ragi flour with water or milk, often sweetened with jaggery or flavored with cardamom. Its high water content ensures hydration, while its nutrients boost energy and stamina. Ragi malt aids in digestion, prevents dehydration, and regulates body temperature, making it an ideal drink to stay cool and refreshed during scorching summer days.

Barley water is said to be rich in essential nutrients and antioxidants and helps keep the body hydrated and cool. Consuming barley water aids in digestion reduces body heat, and provides a refreshing, soothing effect. Its natural cooling properties make it an ideal beverage to combat the scorching summer temperatures.

Nimbu pani, or lemonade, is a quintessential summer cooler in India. It offers a perfect blend of hydration and refreshment, infused with the tangy goodness of lemons. Packed with vitamin C, antioxidants, and electrolytes, nimbu pani replenishes lost fluids, regulates body temperature, and revitalises the system. Its simple preparation and rejuvenating properties make it a go-to beverage for combating the sweltering summer heat.

Popularly known as buttermilk, it’s a traditional Indian summer drink that offers a cooling respite from the heat. Made by diluting yoghurt with water and seasoned with spices like cumin, salt, and mint, chaach is light, refreshing, and hydrating. It aids digestion, replenishes electrolytes, and soothes the stomach, making it an ideal beverage to combat dehydration and heat exhaustion during hot summer days.

This traditional Punjabi summer drink offers a delightful way to beat the heat. Made with a blend of water, sugar, and fragrant spices like cardamom, it's then garnished with fresh mint leaves. This refreshing concoction not only quenches thirst but also provides an instant burst of energy. Served cold, Chabeel is a popular street beverage during scorching summer days, offering a sweet respite from the heat with its cooling properties. (Image courtesy: Instagram/@shubhdoc)

Often overlooked for its nutritious properties, Bael ka sharbat is known for its cooling and hydrating properties. Made from the pulp of bael fruit, mixed with water, sugar, and a hint of lime juice, it offers a refreshing and revitalizing experience. Rich in vitamins and minerals, this traditional beverage helps in combating dehydration and heat exhaustion, making it an ideal choice to beat the scorching summer heat.

Gond katira, also known as Tragacanth gum, is a natural coolant that provides relief from the summer heat. When soaked in water overnight, it swells up to form a jelly-like substance. Mixed with lemon juice, sugar, and water, it creates a refreshing beverage. Gond katira drink not only cools the body but also helps in preventing heat strokes and dehydration, making it a popular choice during hot summers.