As Delhi-NCR experiences soaring temperatures reaching around 46°C, celebrity nutritionist Rujuta Diwekar has shared three traditional Indian remedies to help the body cope with extreme heat naturally. Known for her work with actors like Kareena Kapoor, she highlighted simple “desi hacks” that can support cooling, hydration, and overall wellness without relying solely on air conditioners or artificial cooling methods.
Vetiver (wala) roots for cooling water
Rujuta Diwekar recommends adding two to three vetiver, also known as wala roots, to drinking water during summer. According to her, this natural infusion adds a mild sweetness and cooling effect, making it easier to stay hydrated in high temperatures.
She suggests reusing the roots for up to three days and later using them in bathing water. Traditionally, vetiver has also been used in home cooling systems, including mats, curtains, and fans, due to its natural fragrance and heat-absorbing properties. However, she notes that individuals prone to headaches may want to avoid it.
Mehendi (henna) for natural cooling
Another traditional remedy she highlights is applying mehendi (henna) on the hands. Rujuta explains that this age-old practice not only provides a cooling effect to the body but also encourages a slower, more mindful pace of living during the intense summer months.
She adds that while commonly associated with cosmetic use today, henna was historically valued for its calming and temperature-regulating effects.
Buttermilk (chaas) for hydration and digestion
Rujuta strongly recommends including buttermilk, or chaas, in the summer diet two to three times a day. She explains that it helps restore electrolyte balance lost through dehydration and heat exposure.
When combined with ingredients like salt, cumin, and asafoetida, buttermilk also supports digestion, improves appetite, and may help reduce bloating. She describes it as a natural drink containing beneficial nutrients such as protein, calcium, and vitamin B12, along with probiotic properties that support gut health.
A return to traditional cooling practices
Rujuta Diwekar emphasizes that these ancestral practices can help manage heat stress and maintain physical well-being in a sustainable way. However, she also highlights that broader solutions, including better urban planning and heat management policies, are necessary to address rising temperatures effectively.