As summer approaches, many parts of the country brace for gruelling heatwaves that increase the demand for air conditioners, cold drinks, and frozen delights. While these measures might offer temporary relief from the blistering temperatures, they might not last long. Experts suggest the consumption of cooling herbs to naturally cool your body and withstand the heat. (Also read | Poha vs idli; which is the better option to avoid a blood sugar spike?)
![Adding certain herbs to your diet can give you extra relief from the sweltering heat, on top of staying hydrated and seeking shade,(Freepik) Adding certain herbs to your diet can give you extra relief from the sweltering heat, on top of staying hydrated and seeking shade,(Freepik)](https://www.hindustantimes.com/ht-img/img/2024/04/06/550x309/mint_1712386963063_1712386977847.jpg)
In addition to staying out of the sun during the hottest parts of the day, drinking plenty of fluids, increasing electrolyte intake, and wearing breathable cotton clothing, incorporating herbs like mint, fennel, coriander, and hibiscus into our daily routines can help our bodies handle extreme heat.
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Ayurvedic practitioners advise against consumption of foods that intensify pitta like deep-fried goodies, spicy and salty foods. Certain spices might upset a healthy gut in some individuals. Ginger and chillies can heat up the body and should be used sparingly in summer to avoid gut health issues. Conversely, spices like mint, cumin, coriander, and fennel should be included in the summer diet to control body temperature and stay cool.
“Finding natural means to cool down is crucial as temperature levels rise during summer. Apart from seeking shade and keeping yourself hydrated, incorporating specific herbs into your diet can give extra relief from the searing heat,” explains Dr Rituja Ugalmugle, Consultant Physician, Wockhardt Hospitals, Mumbai.
THE BEST SUMMER HERBS
Dr Rituja recommends eight herbs known for their cooling properties, backed by scientific evidence.
1. Peppermint: This herb is famous for its cool sensation and refreshing taste. Research suggests that peppermint can reduce body heat by inducing sweating, aiding in temperature regulation.
2. Spearmint: Like peppermint, spearmint has cooling characteristics that can help relieve discomfort related to heat. Its menthol content gives it a refreshing taste and stimulates the sweat glands, promoting heat release.
3. Lemon balm: This mint family herb, with its citrus-scented aroma, is a favoured choice for fighting heat stress. Studies indicate that lemon balm can promote relaxation and alleviate anxiety, contributing to overall comfort during hot weather.
3. Hibiscus: Beyond its beautiful blossoms, hibiscus is also prized for its cooling properties. Consuming hibiscus tea can help control body temperature and promote hydration, making it an excellent beverage for summer.
4. Fennel: Traditionally used to cool the body and aid digestion, fennel is rich in antioxidants and essential oils. It may help alleviate symptoms of heat-related discomfort such as bloating and indigestion.
5. Cilantro: Cilantro’s fresh and citrusy taste makes it a staple in many types of cuisine. Its perceived cooling properties are believed to reduce the body’s internal heat, making it an excellent addition to summer dishes.
6. Coriander: Coriander, derived from the same plant as cilantro, offers similar cooling effects. Its inclusion in culinary dishes and herbal remedies is linked to improved digestion and heat tolerance.
7. Mint: Known for its cooling effect, mint comes in various forms such as peppermint and spearmint. Whether consumed as tea, added to salads, or used in cooking, mint can provide relief from the heat and enhance overall wellness.
Summer has almost arrived and very soon intense heatwave will grip several parts of the country boosting demand for air conditioners, cold beverages and frozen treats. These remedies may provide temporary relief from the scorching heat, they may not be effective for longer periods. To tackle the heat wave and keep your body naturally cool, experts suggest turning to cooling herbs that can help beat the heat. (Also read | Poha vs idli; which is better to prevent blood sugar spike?)
![While staying hydrated and seeking shade are crucial, incorporating certain herbs into your diet can provide additional relief from the sweltering heat,(Freepik) While staying hydrated and seeking shade are crucial, incorporating certain herbs into your diet can provide additional relief from the sweltering heat,(Freepik)](https://www.hindustantimes.com/ht-img/img/2024/04/06/550x309/mint_1712386963063_1712386977847.jpg)
Apart from avoiding peak hour sun, staying well hydrated, increasing intake of electrolytes, and wearing comfortable cotton clothing, we can also include herbs like mint, fennel, coriander, hibiscus in our daily routine to support the body in coping with extreme temperatures.
As per Ayurveda, one must stay away from pitta-aggravating foods like deep fried treats, salty and spicy foods. Also, there are certain spices that can affect healthy gut function in some people. Ginger and chillies may heat up the body and their intake must be moderated in summer to prevent gut health related issues. On the other hand spices like mint, cumin, coriander, fennel must be added to the summer diet to regulate body temperature and keep cool.
“As the temperatures soar during the summer months, finding ways to cool down naturally becomes essential. While staying hydrated and seeking shade are crucial, incorporating certain herbs into your diet can provide additional relief from the sweltering heat,” says Dr Rituja Ugalmugle, Consultant Physician, Wockhardt Hospitals, Mumbai.
TOP HERBS FOR SUMMER
Here are eight evidence-based herbs known for their cooling properties, suggested by Dr Rituja.
1. Peppermint: It is renowned for its refreshing flavour and cooling effect. Studies suggest that peppermint may help lower body temperature by promoting sweating, thus aiding in thermoregulation.
2. Spearmint: Similar to peppermint, spearmint possesses cooling properties that can help alleviate heat-related discomfort. Its menthol content not only imparts a refreshing taste but also stimulates sweat glands, facilitating heat dissipation.
3. Lemon balm: A herb from the mint family, lemon balm with its citrusy aroma, is a popular choice for combating heat stress. Research indicates that lemon balm may promote relaxation and reduce anxiety, which can contribute to overall comfort in hot weather.
3. Hibiscus: Known for its vibrant blooms, hibiscus is also valued for its cooling properties. Studies suggest that consuming hibiscus tea may help regulate body temperature and promote hydration, making it an excellent summer beverage.
4. Fennel: They are traditionally used to cool the body and aid digestion. Rich in antioxidants and essential oils, fennel may help alleviate symptoms of heat-related discomfort such as bloating and indigestion.
5. Cilantro: With its fresh and citrusy flavour, cilantro is a staple in many cuisines. This herb is believed to possess cooling properties that can help reduce internal body heat, making it a valuable addition to summer meals.
6. Coriander: It is derived from the same plant as cilantro, offers similar cooling benefits. Its use in culinary dishes and herbal remedies has been associated with improved digestion and heat tolerance.
7. Mint: In its various forms such as peppermint and spearmint, it is widely recognised for its cooling effect. Whether consumed as a tea, added to salads, or used in cooking, mint can provide relief from the heat and promote overall well-being.