As temperatures climb, our bodies often struggle with the intense heat, leading to problems like tiredness, dehydration, headaches, and heat rashes. These symptoms can have serious effects on your health, making it crucial to take steps to lessen the impact of heat exhaustion.

While we all may have heard of Ayurveda, most of us didn’t know how it offers medical remedies for all kinds of problems. Not only does Ayurveda offer us remedies and routines for bodily ailments like pain, but it also offers natural ways to combat the effects of heat.

As the temperature gets worse, many people are opting to stay home, wear full clothes to avoid harmful sunlight from affecting their skin and other preventive measures. While drinking water is crucial for survival, one must also add other foods that promote hydration and moisture in our bodies. There are many ayurvedic herbs that help hydrate us as well as keep heat-related illnesses at bay. Here are some things you should try.

Amla

Amla, also known as Indian Gooseberry, is packed with Vitamin C and antioxidants. Its naturally cooling nature helps to lower body heat and boost your body's defenses. You can drink fresh amla juice or add dried amla powder to your food to enjoy its revitalizing benefits. Studies have also shown that amla can help with digestion, which is especially useful in summer when digestive issues are common.

Tamarind

The summer season often brings ripe tamarinds, almost as if nature is offering one of its best remedies to combat the heat. South Indian gravies commonly use tamarind for a tangy flavor. Consider having South Indian sambar or rasam during the afternoon this summer to help counter the blazing heat.

Mint

Mint is widely recognized for its cooling and refreshing qualities. It contains menthol, which provides quick relief from heat-related discomforts like headaches and nausea. You can make a soothing mint tea by steeping fresh mint leaves in hot water, or simply add mint leaves to salads and drinks for a cooling twist. Research also suggests that mint can help with digestion and promote a sense of calmness.

Lemon

One of the most widely used remedies to beat the summer heat is nimbu sharbat, a natural cooling drink made from lemon. Lemon acts as a cooling agent and helps bring down body heat. So, feel free to add a generous dash of lemon syrup to your salads, soups, and other dishes for a great taste and a refreshing summer boost.

Coriander

Coriander is not just a flavorful herb but also a cooling one. Both its seeds and leaves have a cooling effect on the body, making it a valuable aid against heat exhaustion. Soaking coriander seeds overnight and drinking the water in the morning can help cool the body from within.

Fennel

Fennel tea is another refreshing choice for staying cool and hydrated on hot days. Fennel seeds are known for their cooling and digestive benefits. They help reduce body heat and ease symptoms like bloating and indigestion. Chewing on a few fennel seeds after meals can help with digestion and prevent discomfort related to heat.

Sandalwood

Sandalwood is a prized herb in Ayurveda for its cooling and soothing properties, especially for the skin. Applying sandalwood paste to the body can help reduce body heat and soothe heat rashes and irritation. You can also add a few drops of sandalwood essential oil to your bathwater for a relaxing and cooling experience.

Gokshura, also known as Tribulus terrestris in Western countries, is a small leafy plant widely used in traditional Ayurvedic and Chinese medicine. This medicinal herb has been traditionally employed to address a range of health issues, including urinary tract infections, kidney ailments, chronic coughing, asthma, and erectile dysfunction. In Western markets, it is primarily marketed as a natural testosterone booster and libido enhancer, available in powder, capsule, or tablet form.

Despite its popularity, scientific research on gokshura’s health effects is still emerging. While its reputation as a testosterone booster has contributed to its global recognition, ongoing studies are exploring a broader spectrum of health benefits.

What Are The Health Benefits Of Gokshura

One of the key properties of gokshura is its antioxidant potential. The plant contains compounds like polyphenols and coumaroylquinic acids, which may help protect body tissues—including the kidneys, liver, heart, and brain—against oxidative damage caused by free radicals. This could potentially reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease, diabetes, and certain cancers.

Gokshura Enhances Libido

Gokshura is also being studied for its role in enhancing libido. Research in men and postmenopausal women has shown increased sexual desire and improved sexual function with gokshura supplementation. A specific study in men noted a 79% increase in libido after two months of daily use, while another in postmenopausal women found enhanced sexual satisfaction and reduced pain during intercourse.

In terms of metabolic health, gokshura may assist in regulating blood sugar levels. Test-tube studies suggest that it inhibits enzymes responsible for breaking down carbohydrates, thereby slowing glucose absorption. Animal studies and limited human trials support these findings, with one 12-week study in women with type 2 diabetes showing improved blood sugar and lipid profiles.

Emerging research also points to benefits for women’s health. Gokshura has shown potential in easing menopausal symptoms and supporting ovarian health in cases of PCOS (polycystic ovary syndrome). Preliminary studies indicate its extracts may even inhibit the growth of certain female cancers, such as breast and ovarian cancers, although more human research is needed.

Additional possible benefits include reducing inflammation, lowering blood pressure, relieving pain, and helping prevent kidney stones, primarily based on animal and test-tube studies.

Despite being marketed as a testosterone booster, human studies have not confirmed this benefit. While animal research shows increased testosterone, human trials reveal no significant change in testosterone levels. However, gokshura still appears to support sexual function and may help manage erectile dysfunction.

As a supplement to enhance physical performance, gokshura shows mixed results. While it may not significantly affect muscle mass or strength, some studies suggest it could improve performance during high-intensity anaerobic exercise.

Gokshura is generally considered safe with few side effects, though some users may experience digestive issues. Dosages in studies vary widely, ranging from 250 to 1,500 mg per day. It is advisable to follow product-specific recommendations and consult a healthcare provider before use, especially if taking medications or managing a medical condition.

Ayurveda is not just remedies and recipes for health, but a way of living. While you may think its relevance has declined in the current world, studies and experts often explain that the base values of ayurveda remain the foundation of healthy living. Drawing from nature and our surroundings, this ancient form of medicne has taught us different ways to protect ourselves, whether it is from diseases or merely seasonal changes.

With peak summer days continuing currently, people are trying to do their best to beat the summer illnesses, keeping indoors, in cool areas, using sunscreens as well as eating hydrating foods. Ayurveda offers many remedies for the same, that help you focus on your overall well-being. One such summer ayurvedic trip that can help one overcome the summertime heat oppression is the ‘Ayurvedic Gatorade’. Published in the ayurvedic well-being journal “What to Eat for How You Feel: The New Ayurvedic Kitchen” by Divya Alter, this recipe is an essential for summers.

Ayurvedic Gatorade for Summers

Made with toasted cumin, fresh coconut, and soma salts, this ayurvedic hydrating drink is a great addition to your summer diet. Make sure to include the toasted cumin, nutmeg, and soma salt in this drink. The cumin and nutmeg help your body soak up nutrients, and the soma salt provides essential minerals. The best part is when all six flavors in the drink taste balanced, with no single one being too strong. Even though it's listed as a cooling recipe, this drink is good for everyone, no matter the season. Drink it when you're working out or on detox days to prevent dehydration, even before you feel thirsty. Here are some important things you must know about the ayurvedic components of the drink

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Ayurvedic Benefits Of Cumin

Cumin (jeera) water is a powerful digestive aid, reducing gas and acidity. It also helps with healthy weight loss by boosting metabolism. During monsoon, it strengthens immunity with its antimicrobial properties. Cumin can assist in controlling blood sugar and improve sleep quality when consumed before bed.

Ayurvedic Benefits of Nutmeg

Nutmeg is packed with antioxidants that protect your cells from damage. It also has anti-inflammatory properties, potentially easing conditions like arthritis. Studies show it has antibacterial effects against harmful bacteria, including those causing dental issues. Additionally, nutmeg might benefit heart health, mood, and blood sugar control, though more human research is needed for these effects.

Ayurvedic Benefits of Mint

Mint helps your body in many ways. It improves digestion by boosting enzymes and fighting stomach issues. It also aids breathing by clearing congestion and soothing allergies. Mint can relieve headaches and keep your teeth healthy by fighting bad breath. Plus, it can help with weight loss by improving metabolism and can even boost memory and reduce stress.

The remedies and routines that ayurveda offers, have been present for years. Some of these methods happen to be thousands of years old, yet still effective when it comes to our health and well-being. Ayurveda is a traditional medicine system that promotes healing from within, and a holistic approach to our body, mind and spirit well-being.

It is not just about remedies, but it is also a way of living, ayurveda teaches us different things about life and how use the nature around us to ensure our health. Different plants and herbs that you may be familiar with, could play a big role in ensuring your health. For example, you could use Tulsi as a cough remedy, honey remedies, as well as aloe vera mixtures can help you protect your skin.

A Cooling Summer Essential

Because of its cooling and anti-inflammatory properties, Aloe Vera is considered one of the best natural remedies for sunburn. Applying it creates a protective layer and helps your skin hold onto moisture.

Hydrates the Skin

Unlike many other moisturizers, Aloe Vera gel helps to unclog pores and makes your skin softer when used as a hydrating gel.

Combats Signs of Aging

Rich in vitamins C, E, and beta-carotene, Aloe Vera helps restore your skin's natural fullness. It also boosts your body's production of collagen and improves skin elasticity, which can reduce signs of aging.

Acts as a Conditioner for the Hair

Just like it moisturizes skin, Aloe Vera helps to condition and soften your hair. Regularly putting Aloe Vera on your hair locks in moisture and keeps its natural shine and healthy look.

Aloe Vera for Acne

Aloe Vera has strong anti-inflammatory properties that are effective in controlling acne and reducing the redness and swelling it causes. Its enzymes form a protective layer on the skin that fights acne-causing bacteria. In Ayurveda, Aloe balances skin types prone to acne with its cleansing and purifying actions.

Aloe Vera for Skin Brightening

Its high moisture content helps reduce the appearance of scars and blemishes, and it also boosts the creation of new skin cells. For brighter skin, mix Aloe Vera gel with lemon juice and a tiny bit of turmeric, then apply it to scars and dark spots to gradually fade them.

Aloe Vera for Dryness & Dullness

With its healing and hydrating qualities, Aloe Vera is an excellent choice for dry skin because it provides much-needed moisture. Beyond just moisturizing, Aloe Vera delivers a powerful burst of hydration, leaving your skin feeling refreshed and healthy.

As a Moisturizer for Oily Skin

If you have oily skin that needs hydration without feeling heavy, Aloe Vera is perfect. It provides a balanced moisturizing effect, sinking in nicely and leaving your skin feeling refreshed, never greasy or sticky.

As a Natural Detoxifying Juice

Drinking Aloe Vera juice can help your body get rid of harmful toxins. Consuming it first thing in the morning is highly beneficial, supporting a healthy gut and generally cleansing your entire internal system for a fresh start.